Toyota RAV4 Only Offers AWD Versions in Japan

The current generation of Toyota RAV4 is gradually approaching its end, having been popular since its introduction in 2018. While eagerly awaiting the next generation model, the Japanese market will see the final updates for the 2025 version of the RAV4.

The biggest change for 2025 is that the Japanese market will no longer offer front-wheel-drive versions, with the entire lineup transitioning to all-wheel drive. The new gasoline models will come standard with all-wheel drive, while the hybrid models will exclusively feature Toyota's E-Four AWD system, which is already standard in the plug-in hybrid variant.

However, the RAV4 will not receive any major external, internal, or mechanical updates. Aside from the elimination of front-wheel-drive models, the most noticeable update is the transition of the hybrid model's blue Toyota badge to a standard badge, accompanied by a new HEV badge on the rear door.

Toyota has also expanded the list of standard features across all 2025 Japanese models, which now include blind spot monitoring, parking support brakes, navigation systems, and integrated turn signals in the side mirrors. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid model will replace the aluminum spare wheel with a steel version.

The updated 2025 RAV4 will officially launch in Japan on November 28, with prices being announced at the same time. Production of the gasoline and hybrid versions will begin in December 2024, followed shortly by the production of the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in January 2025.

In the United States, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 was unveiled in late September, retaining both front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions. The hybrid versions, including the plug-in hybrid model, have replaced the blue Toyota badge with the new HEV badge featuring a blue dot on the rear door.