Skip advert
Advertisement

Toyota RAV4 EV

We drive the electric version of the Toyota RAV4, which leads the way for the company's future models

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Toyota RAV4
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

As a zero-emissions family car that compromises on neither performance nor practicality, the RAV4 EV is a job well done. Combining Tesla’s EV know-how and Toyota’s attention to detail, it has few drawbacks aside from the limited range. It’s available only in California for now, but if demand is high enough it could spawn a wider Toyota EV family for Europe.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The RAV4 EV is the world’s first mass-produced electric SUV, and the result of a tie-up between Toyota and Tesla.

Only 2,600 will be built over the next three years (unless demand goes through the roof), all of which will be sold in California – yet the technology could be used in other Toyota EVs in years to come.

Aerodynamic tweaks for the nose and rear spoiler give the US-spec RAV4 EV a unique look, but inside it’s business as usual with space for five and a 2,067-litre boot.

There are two power settings: Normal allows 0-60mph in 8.6 seconds, while in Sport mode the same sprint takes 7.0 seconds. Top speed is 100mph.

Charging the lithium-ion batteries takes six hours from a 240V socket, yet 44 hours from a 120V US plug. It’s little wonder Toyota will offer American buyers a 240V charge box for £1,000.

Acceleration is brisk, but it’s the excellent ride and refinement that really shine through. The steering is lighter than in the normal RAV4, yet a lower centre of gravity means the car feels stable in corners.

If you can cope with the 113-mile range, this is a great way of karting the kids around town quietly, quickly and efficiently.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,800
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,763 off RRP*Used from £11,595
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £32,828
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production
Range Rover Sport SV Black - front

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production

There’s also a new SV Black trim, and a Range Rover Sport Stealth Package for non SVs
News
1 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month
MG ZS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month

The MG ZS is an easy car to like and live with. It’s our Deal of the Day for 3 July
News
3 Jul 2025
Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model
Ferrari Amalfi - front static

Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model

A slick new look and more power are the headlines for Ferrari’s new baby, but it’s probably some simple new buttons that will get customers’ attention
News
1 Jul 2025