2025 Toyota RAV4 Consumer Reviews

Toyota's PCS, where exactly are you? My Experience Communicating With Toyota and Going Through Arbitration In July 2024, I decided to purchase a new car. After carefully comparing different brands, I chose the 2024 Toyota RAV4 LE. The main reason was that Toyota prominently promoted its Pre-Collision System (PCS) on its official website through videos, images, and written descriptions. According to Toyota, when there is a stopped vehicle waiting at a red light or a pedestrian crossing the road ahead and a collision is likely to occur, the PCS system will first issue a red warning. If the driver does not brake, the system will actively intervene and apply the brakes to help avoid a collision. I was very attracted to this active safety technology, so I decided to buy this car. Within one month after purchasing the vehicle, I decided to test the PCS system under safe conditions. On a straight city road with good visibility during the daytime, I drove at about 30 miles per hour. When there was a stopped vehicle waiting at a red light ahead, I deliberately did not apply the brakes while remaining extremely alert. The car did issue a red warning, but the PCS system never intervened to brake automatically. I had to brake hard at the last moment to avoid a collision. This surprised me greatly. I later repeated this test three more times under the same high level of caution, with exactly the same result. I never experienced any automatic braking from the PCS system. This made me feel frightened and seriously doubt the effectiveness of PCS. I then formally requested an inspection of the PCS system. The dealership’s inspection report concluded that “the PCS operates as designed.” A Toyota salesperson told me that this vehicle was a base model and did not have automatic braking. Another salesperson told me that because city roads have many traffic lights and frequent stop-and-go conditions, the PCS system can become confused and is not reliable, and therefore should not be relied upon. I was shocked, because both explanations were completely inconsistent with Toyota’s official advertising. I requested a second inspection. Toyota’s second inspection concluded that automatic braking worked properly on the highway, but that “PCS cannot be safely tested.” Once again, I was confused, because Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is a cruise control system and is not the same technology as PCS. The inspection completely avoided the key question of whether PCS itself was functioning properly. This result was unacceptable to me. Toyota then informed me that they might conduct another inspection and provide a loaner vehicle, but a few days later they changed their decision, refused further testing, and advised me to file for arbitration. Although arbitration is very troublesome, I proceeded in order to clarify the issue. I spent a great deal of time preparing extensive documentation and formally initiated arbitration. My position was that Toyota had misled consumers and exaggerated its advertising. In response to my claim, Toyota essentially argued that PCS is subject to additional disclaimers, that no safety system is foolproof, that the driver bears full responsibility, and that Toyota is not responsible in the event of an accident. I responded that, aside from the fact that these so-called disclaimers are placed in locations that are not easy for consumers to notice, even under those disclaimers, Toyota’s official website and owner’s manual still provide clear definitions and positive commitments regarding PCS. The core issue is not who is responsible after an accident, but whether PCS on my vehicle is truly effective and capable of automatic braking. Toyota itself was unwilling to conduct testing on city roads, which indicates a lack of confidence in this technology. The arbitration decision was issued, and I lost the case. The arbitrator stated that I failed to prove that the vehicle had a defect requiring repair. I was deeply disappointed by the professionalism of the arbitration process, because this involved a clear logical error. I never claimed that the vehicle needed repair. My question was whether PCS truly exists, whether it actually performs automatic braking, and whether Toyota engaged in misleading or exaggerated advertising. Consumers do not have the technical expertise or equipment to conduct advanced road testing. Toyota, as a top-tier manufacturer with strong technical capabilities and resources, was unable to provide any convincing evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of such a critical safety system. Why did the arbitrator not require Toyota to provide proof that PCS actually works? This is fundamentally unfair to consumers. Friends suggested that I pursue legal action, but I declined. Arbitration was already exhausting, and litigation would be even more burdensome. I decided to let the matter end here. I simply want to share this experience so that people who are considering purchasing a RAV4 will be more cautious and carefully distinguish between Toyota’s marketing claims and real-world performance. Readers who are interested may click the link below to view all supporting documents. Direct download link (no sign-in required): https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tazZQ-g-X_DAlP_QoqqKLPto5S9wsW0s?usp=sharing

I purchased my new 2025 RAV4 Hybrid Limited in September of 2025. Thus far, my overall driving experience has been positive overall, with a few negative marks. On the positive side, fuel economy has been great. I typically get 500+ miles on a tank (14.5 gal) of gas. My actual fuel economy really varies depending on city/highway driving, plus weather conditions. On a mild or warm weather day, I’ll average 39-41 mpg, sometimes achieving 42/43 mpg with heavy city driving. I’ve noticed 20 and 30 degree temps seem to negatively impact the battery, with my fuel economy dropping to 35 - 39 mpg. I’ve only driven in moderate snowy (1-3”) and ice conditions, but handling has been good thus far, still waiting for a heavy snow day. The overall exterior styling of the car is sleek and modern. Pretty cool premium 18” wheels. I love the white body color offering, with black trim. The interior is very sleek, and layed out well. I wouldn’t say it’s spacious, but I’m nearly 6’ 1” and fit just fine, with very adjustable and comfortable seats with lumbar support, heat and ventilated. I drove 12 hours one day and was very comfortable. The backseat is also not very spacious, but kids will fit quite well. Bigger adults will fit, but maybe squeezed a tad. I’d recommend a rooftop storage container if traveling with a lot of stuff. Factory rubberized floor mates are good, not great quality. One big negative for me is the auto start feature. One, it only runs for 10 minutes. Second, when you open the door, it completely shuts off and you have to restart. Absolutely hate this safety feature, which was put in to prevent theft. I also hate the warning sound you hear when backseat passengers don’t have their seatbelt on…I don’t care about backseat passengers, they need to allow me to turn that feature off. Back tailgate area is a good size, and plenty big with backseats down. Love the rubberized protecter on back side of backseat. I haul dogs around, and this keeps their paws off the back of the seat. Premium sound is pretty good, you can definitely jam! Infotainment system is pretty easy to figure out, but I always get nervous with the lack of physical knobs for basic functions. Only 1 USB, and several USB-C ports, plus one 12v DC plug. I like storage space recessed in dash, as well and arm rest and glove box. Overall handling and braking is top notch. The car does have some pop, if in sport mode. Eco mode for better fuel economy. Cool panoramic moon roof! Bright led headlights and fog lights. This car has all the extras, including lane assist and parking assist. Fits well in a smaller garage. The app is ok, but after a period of time, you must pay for it…which I’m not a fan of at all. If you want a fuel efficient hybrid, that looks presentable, handles well, and has a lot of extras in the Limited trim…Toyota is still the leader. These cars don’t even make it to the lot, all pre-sold when I had to order.

No heated seats on a "premium" car is crazy. Cannot see tire pressure on the car which is CRAZY. I could see it in the app for 2 months but all of a sudden I cant anymore and according to customer service my car is "not compatible" with the app and apparently never was. I was just "lucky" enough to be able to see the tire pressure for the time i did. Have had tire sensor issues saying its low when they arent since day 1. Already had to replace the battery and haven't owned the car for even 3 months yet. Biggest mistake purchase I've ever made. I loved my 2014 Toyota. I have been Toyota and Lexus loyal for 12 years. I will never purchase another Toyota after this horrible experience.

I’m enjoying driving my RAV4 XLE hybrid Very comfortable economy on gas and easy to maneuver driving in the freeway and city driving

I purchased a brand new 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD expecting the reliability Toyota is known for—but I’ve had the opposite experience. At just 5,000 miles, the engine developed a serious fuel system problem: strong raw fuel smell, rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, and inconsistent performance. No check engine light ever came on, which made diagnosing the issue frustrating. I took the vehicle in for warranty service, and although Toyota claimed it was repaired, the problem still isn’t fully resolved. I even attempted to file a lemon law claim twice and was denied by Toyota, despite clear ongoing mechanical issues. I’ve owned multiple Toyotas before, but this is the least reliable vehicle I’ve ever purchased. Beyond the engine problem, the RAV4 feels loud inside and underpowered for daily driving. The build quality is not what Toyota used to deliver, which is unfortunate for a brand once trusted for durability. It feels like Toyota is relying too heavily on its old reputation while quality control has declined in newer models. My advice: Consider an older, used Toyota or Lexus over a new one. Based on my experience, the newer models may not live up to expectations—especially if you care about long-term reliability.

We bought this 2025 model used with 4K miles, and it’s a pretty awesome car! The engine is super smooth, handling is easy, and features are great. Only complaint is the auto engine on/off (gas model) gets annoying.

Favorite car I've owned thus far. Great acceleration and gas mileage, all weather mats, additional window tint and hitch added.

Got my 2021 RAV4 when I was 17 years old in 2025. After driving it for a couple of months, I can say confidently that I love it and will keep it for as long as I can. The safety features are great for newer drivers and CarPlay is awesome!!! Only thing I don’t like is that your seat setting isn’t saved, but it’s a minor thing. Love Toyotas and will never get a different car, at least not for now.