Toyota has officially launched the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and GR Sport versions of the RAV4 in Japan, bringing the updated model in line with releases already seen in North America and Europe. The key takeaway? This SUV can now act as a backup power source for your home for up to a week.
Design and Performance Updates 🏎️
Visually, the Japanese RAV4 PHEV mirrors the global model. Consumers can choose between the standard Z trim and the sportier GR Sport. The GR Sport goes beyond aesthetics, featuring performance dampers, reinforced bracing, and tuned suspension and steering. Even the battery pack contributes to structural rigidity.
Inside, the RAV4 gets a modern upgrade: a 12.9-inch infotainment display running Toyota’s Arene software, paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an optional head-up display. Comfort features include wireless charging, a hands-free tailgate, and optional heated/ventilated seats.
Powertrain and Range 🔋
The PHEV powertrain combines a 2.5-liter engine with dual electric motors and a 22.7 kWh battery, delivering a combined output of 324 hp. Despite identical hardware, the stated EV range varies based on testing standards: 93 miles (150 km) under the WLTC cycle, exceeding Europe’s WLTP (62 miles) and the EPA’s US estimate (52 miles). The difference comes down to testing protocols, not actual performance.
The Game-Changing Power Supply Feature 💡
What sets this RAV4 apart is its ability to provide electricity to a home for up to seven days using the “Power Supply Time Priority Mode.” With a fully charged battery and a full tank of fuel, the vehicle can maintain a constant 400W load for this duration, or 6.5 days in regular “Power Supply Mode”.
The RAV4 includes an internal socket in the luggage area and a power connector that turns the charging port into a 1,500W external socket. Toyota has showcased this feature through videos, demonstrating use cases like camping, cooking, or even powering a live music event. This makes the RAV4 not just a car, but a mobile power station.
Production and Availability 🗓️
The new Toyota RAV4 PHEV is now available for order in Japan, with initial production capped at 700 units per month. Toyota is banking on strong demand for this versatile vehicle, which bridges the gap between daily driving and emergency power backup.
This feature is particularly relevant given increasing climate volatility and the need for reliable backup power. While this capability is currently available only in select markets, it highlights a growing trend toward vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. Toyota’s move may pressure other automakers to follow suit, making the RAV4 PHEV a potential benchmark for future electric vehicles.
