Toyota RAV4: what it really costs to run in the UK
One of the most reliable SUVs ever made. The RAV4 Hybrid combines Toyota's bulletproof record with impressive fuel economy.
Based on 1,000 km (about 621 miles) a month on mixed roads. Prices: £25,000 for a 2–4-year-old one, up to £43,000 new. All assumptions →
Buying a 2–4-year-old RAV4 on finance
| Monthly cost | £/month |
|---|---|
| Loan payment (80% financed, 5% APR, 3 years) | £599 |
| Fuel / electricity | £78 |
| Insurance (estimate) | £73 |
| Road tax | £16 |
| Maintenance | £70 |
| Total per month | £837 |
| Over 3 years | £ |
|---|---|
| 20% deposit | £5,000 |
| 36 monthly costs | £30,124 |
| Total paid out | £35,124 |
| Minus estimated resale value (~55%) | −£13,751 |
| Net 3-year cost | £21,374 |
Leasing a new RAV4
| Monthly cost | £/month |
|---|---|
| Lease payment (typical deal: 36 months, 10,000 miles a year, upfront payment spread over the term) | £586 |
| Fuel / electricity | £78 |
| Insurance (estimate) | £126 |
| Road tax and maintenance | Usually included |
| Total per month | £789 |
Leasing compares a new car with buying a 2–4-year-old one, so the two are different cars. At the end of a lease you hand the car back; buying leaves you with the resale value, which is why buying is shown net.
Road tax
UK vehicle tax for a car this age is the flat standard rate, £200/yr, whatever its CO₂. Versions that cost over £40,000 new also pay £640/yr extra in years 2–6 (not included above).
CO₂: 98 g/km.
Engines
- 2.5 Hybrid 218hp (recommended)
- 2.5 PHEV 302hp
- 2.0 D-4D 150hp diesel
Costs above use the first engine listed. Bigger engines cost more to buy, insure and fuel.
Why people choose the RAV4
- Exceptional long-term reliability
- 2.5 Hybrid cuts fuel bills significantly
- Strong safety ratings across all variants
Is it the right car for you?
CarAI asks 11 questions about how you actually live — commute, passengers, luggage, budget — and recommends specific cars with their running costs for the UK. Free, about 2 minutes.
Take the 11-question quiz →