Toyota announced on Thursday it will rebrand its popular "Prime" plug-in hybrid vehicles for the 2025 model year. The RAV4 and Prius models will now be called "Plug-in Hybrid," emphasizing Toyota’s leadership in electrified vehicle technology.

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid and 2025 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid will also feature a new "PHEV" badge, clearly identifying them as Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles. This change aims to make the advanced powertrain technology more apparent to Canadian consumers.

Cyril Dimitris, Vice President of Toyota Canada Inc., explained the rationale behind the name change: "Many Canadians already appreciate the advanced power, driving fun, and remarkable efficiency of Toyota's flagship plug-in hybrid vehicles – and with a slight change of name, we're ready to help even more drivers embrace PHEVs as they seek to live more sustainable lives."

Powertrain Features and Performance

The 2025 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid boasts an impressive powertrain, combining a 2.0L gas engine with an electric motor-generator to produce 220 horsepower. This front-wheel-drive vehicle features an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission and offers an electric-only range of up to 72 kilometres. The battery can be fully recharged in as little as four hours.

For those seeking more power and versatility, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid delivers 302 horsepower from its 2.5L four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine and high-torque electric motors. The RAV4 PHEV comes standard with electronic on-demand all-wheel-drive and provides a combined driving range of 979 kilometres on a full tank and battery charge. It can operate in pure electric mode for up to 68 kilometres and recharges in just 2.5 hours using a 240V outlet.

Both models showcase Toyota's commitment to offering practical, real-world electrified vehicles that support the company's Beyond Zero initiative. This strategy aims to make a positive impact on the planet and society through sustainable transportation solutions.

The rebranding of these models reflects Toyota's broader approach to electrification, which includes a diverse range of powertrains such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery electrics, and hydrogen fuel cells. This variety ensures that Toyota can meet the needs of different drivers and lifestyles while promoting more sustainable transportation options.

Toyota's decision to rename these models comes at a time when consumer demand for electrified vehicles is growing in Canada. The company's long-standing reputation for developing reliable hybrid technology, dating back to the original Prius, positions it well to capitalize on this trend.

Pricing details for the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid and 2025 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be announced later this year.