Is the RAV4 engine the same as Camry?
Not exactly. In the latest generations, Toyota uses a shared engine family for both models, but the engines are not identical in calibration or application. The Camry and RAV4 both rely on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder block in their gasoline versions, and they branch into distinct hybrid setups, with older generations offering additional engine options that aren’t part of the current lineup.
Current gasoline engine options
The following outlines the primary gasoline powertrains used in the latest Camry and RAV4 models.
- Camry Gasoline: 2.5-liter four-cylinder (Dynamic Force) with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Output is around 203 horsepower and about 184 lb-ft of torque.
- RAV4 Gasoline: 2.5-liter four-cylinder (Dynamic Force) paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Output is also around 203 horsepower and about 184 lb-ft of torque.
In the current lineup, both Camry and RAV4 rely on the same basic 2.5L four-cylinder engine for their non-hybrid gasoline variants, but the surrounding tuning, calibration, and vehicle goals can yield different drive characteristics between the two models.
Additional context on engines and tuning
The two engines share the same block family and general spec, but Toyota tunes them to suit each model’s weight, chassis, and performance target. Transmission calibration and intake/exhaust tuning can lead to slightly different real-world feel and efficiency, even when the quoted numbers are similar.
Hybrid and plug-in powertrains
The following covers the hybrid and plug-in variants available for Camry and RAV4 today.
- Camry Hybrid: Uses a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine combined with electric motors and an electronic CVT. System output is around 208 horsepower.
- RAV4 Hybrid: Also uses a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors and an eCVT, delivering about 219 horsepower combined.
- RAV4 Prime (Plug-in Hybrid): Employs the same 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle base with a larger battery and electric motors to produce a combined output around 302 horsepower, plus an EPA-estimated electric range of about 42 miles per full battery charge.
Conclusion: The Camry Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid share the same fundamental 2.5-liter Atkinson architecture, but their electric drive integrations and total outputs differ. The RAV4 Prime adds plug-in capability and a higher combined horsepower figure for improved performance.
Historical context
Historically, both models have offered broader engine options, including V6 variants in older generations. In the most recent redesign cycles, Toyota has streamlined to a common 2.5-liter four-cylinder base for most gas models, with hybrids and the RAV4 Prime representing the broader family’s electrified applications. This means the engines are related and share parts, but they are not identical across every model or trim.
Bottom line
In today’s lineup, the RAV4 and Camry gas engines are largely the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder family, but they are tuned for each vehicle and paired with different transmissions and drive configurations. The real distinction appears in the hybrid and plug-in variants, where shared components are integrated into unique electrical systems and output figures tailored to each model's design goals.
Summary
The RAV4 and Camry do not use a single, identical engine in every respect, but they do share the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder family for their current gasoline powertrains. Hybrids and the RAV4 Prime extend the conversation with different hybrid/electric arrangements and higher combined outputs. For buyers, this means the two models can feel similar in base power, but their overall performance, efficiency, and drive feel differ based on configuration and electrification level.
