Can sportiness and plug-in efficiency coexist in an SUV? Toyota says, yes!
Historically, performance badges like AMG, SS, and GR were reserved for sports cars equipped with higher horsepower, tauter suspensions, and stickier tires. Today, modern SUVs are blurring the lines between raw utility and sportiness. A prime case in point is Toyota’s RAV4 GR Sport Plug-In Hybrid.
Gazoo Racing Tune Meets Plug-In Power
EV Rider’s test car this week features a Gazoo Racing-tuned suspension, a lower, more planted ride height, aggressive exterior styling, and subtle GR branding throughout.
According to Malcolm Hogan, publisher of AutomotiveAddicts.com, the most surprising element is the performance. Delivering 324 horsepower, the vehicle delivers linear acceleration through its continuously variable transmission (CVT) and hybrid system. Independent testing from MotorTrend indicates a 0–60 mph sprint of right around 5 seconds, making it the quickest factory-built RAV4 to date.
Impressive Efficiency and 500+ Miles of Range
Despite its performance focus, the GR Sport remains practical at the pump. It offers an estimated 48 miles of pure electric driving range before the gas engine engages, compared to 54 miles in standard versions. When operating purely as a hybrid, it averages around 37 mpg. Combined electric and gasoline power yields about 570 miles of total range, making long road trips seamless without requiring frequent stops.
However, high performance comes at a premium. Stepping into this top-of-the-line trim brings a price tag $51,335, making it the most expensive RAV4 ever offered.
Thoughtful Interior Upgrades
Inside, the cabin features custom GR headrests and floor mats, along with functional enhancements. Highlights include:
- Drive Mode Controls: A quick-flick dial switches easily between Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom modes, while dedicated buttons engage Trail and Snow modes for light off-roading.
- Dedicated Camera Button: Drivers can activate the 360-degree, front, and rear camera views using a physical dash button rather than digging through touchscreen menus.
- Updated Infotainment: An updated home screen improves navigation across Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and media inputs.
- Practical Ergonomics: Features include dual-opening center console storage, steering wheel paddle shifters, and a traditional latched glove box.
The Verdict: Built to Last
As the best-selling plug-in hybrid in the U.S., the RAV4 has built a reputation on long-term reliability and solid build quality. On the road, the GR Sport trim manages corners tightly while delivering a smooth, composed ride. For buyers seeking an ideal mix of everyday utility, sharp handling, and long-distance electric capability, the RAV4 GR Sport stands out as a compelling contender.
For driving impressions and additional information see the video at the top of this post or the full week-long written road test and review at AutomotiveAddicts.com.