2025 Mitsubishi RVR: Compact SUV Value for Thunder Bay's First-Time Buyers

For first-time SUV buyers in Thunder Bay, the 2025 Mitsubishi RVR delivers practical all-wheel-drive capability without stretching your budget. This subcompact SUV packs proven winter performance and Northwestern Ontario versatility into an affordable, easy-to-park package that fits both your lifestyle and your wallet.

The RVR's reputation as one of the region's most accessible AWD options continues in 2025. All-Wheel Control comes standard on most trims, providing the traction you need for Thunder Bay's winter streets and Highway 11/17 commutes. The compact footprint makes parking along Cumberland Street or at Lakehead University straightforward, while the reliable mechanicals handle Northern Ontario's demanding conditions year after year.

All-Wheel Control for Real Winter Driving

The 2025 RVR equips most trim levels with Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control system. AWC features three selectable drive modes that let you balance fuel economy with traction:

• 2WD Mode keeps the vehicle in front-wheel drive for economical highway cruising on dry roads
• 4WD AUTO Mode provides on-demand all-wheel drive, automatically adjusting power distribution based on road conditions for balanced efficiency and grip
• 4WD LOCK Mode increases torque to the rear wheels for enhanced performance on snow-covered roads or loose surfaces

The system gives you control over how engaged the all-wheel drive stays, letting you optimize for fuel savings during summer highway trips or maximum traction during Northwestern Ontario winters.

Engine Options Built for Daily Use

ES FWD and ES AWC: 2.0 L Engine

The entry-level ES models pair a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission. This powertrain delivers 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for city driving and highway merging.

Fuel Economy:

• ES FWD: 9.7 L/100 km city, 7.8 L/100 km highway, 8.9 L/100 km combined
• ES AWC: 10.0 L/100 km city, 8.1 L/100 km highway, 9.1 L/100 km combined

SE, SEL, NOIR, GT: 2.4 L Engine

Higher trim levels upgrade to a 2.4 L 4-cylinder engine producing 168 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque. The added power enhances acceleration and passing confidence without significantly impacting fuel consumption.

Fuel Economy:

• SE/SEL/NOIR/GT AWC: 10.3 L/100 km city, 8.3 L/100 km highway, 9.4 L/100 km combined

Both engines use a CVT transmission with paddle shifters available on NOIR and GT trims for manual gear selection when desired.

Interior Space That Works

Despite its compact exterior, the RVR provides room for five passengers and their gear. The cabin offers 2,761 litres of passenger volume on ES/SE models and 2,707 litres on SEL/NOIR/GT trims.

Cargo Capacity:

• Behind rear seats: 614 litres (ES/SE) or 569 litres (SEL/NOIR/GT)
• Behind front seats: 1,402 litres (ES/SE) or 1,382 litres (SEL/NOIR/GT)

The rear seats fold flat to accommodate larger items, from Costco runs to camping gear for weekend trips to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

Safety Features Across the Board

Every 2025 RVR includes standard safety equipment:

• 7 airbags (dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, side-impact curtain for 1st and 2nd rows, driver's knee)
• Anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution
• Active stability control and traction control logic
• Hill start assist
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Rear seat occupant alert

Higher trims add driver assistance technologies:

• SE/SEL/NOIR: Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert
• GT: Forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and auto LED high beams

Trim-by-Trim Breakdown

ES FWD

Starting point for budget-conscious buyers, the ES FWD offers front-wheel drive with essential features:

• 2.0 L engine
• 16-inch steel wheels
• Heated front seats
• 8-inch smartphone link display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Automatic climate control
• Auto LED headlights and LED daytime running lights

Ideal for: Students or first-time buyers prioritizing lowest upfront cost and strong fuel economy for primarily city driving.

ES AWC

Adds All-Wheel Control to the ES feature set for improved winter capability.

Ideal for: Buyers who want AWD security without upgrading to higher trim levels.

SE AWC

The SE upgrades to the 2.4 L engine and enhances the experience with:

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• LED fog lights
• 6 speakers (vs. 4 on ES)
• Blind spot warning
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob
• Rear privacy glass

Ideal for: Buyers seeking more power and key safety technologies at a mid-range price.

SEL AWC

The SEL adds convenience and comfort features:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Microsuede/synthetic leather seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Heated and power-folding side-view mirrors with turn signals
• Panoramic fixed glass sunroof
• Driver and front passenger sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors

Ideal for: Buyers who want enhanced interior comfort and the sunroof for Ontario's summer months.

NOIR AWC

The NOIR trim delivers distinctive styling:

• 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels
• Black grille and exterior accents
• Black headliner
• Aluminum pedals
• Paddle shifters
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob with red stitching

Ideal for: Buyers seeking a more aggressive, sport-oriented appearance.

GT AWC

The top-tier GT includes premium features and advanced safety:

• Panoramic fixed glass sunroof
• 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with 9 speakers including 10-inch subwoofer
• Leather-appointed seats
• 6-way power driver's seat
• Remote engine starter
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
• Cargo cover
• Forward collision mitigation
• Lane departure warning
• Auto LED high beams

Ideal for: Buyers who want the complete RVR experience with premium audio, maximum safety technology, and cold-weather convenience.

Warranty Coverage You Can Trust

Mitsubishi backs the 2025 RVR with comprehensive warranty protection:

• 10-year/160,000 km powertrain limited warranty
• 5-year/100,000 km new vehicle limited warranty
• 5-year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance

This extensive coverage provides peace of mind, particularly valuable for first-time vehicle owners.

Practical Value for Northwestern Ontario

The 2025 RVR maintains its position as a straightforward, budget-friendly option for Thunder Bay drivers who need all-wheel-drive capability. The subcompact dimensions simplify parking in the city core, while AWC handles winter roads with confidence. Mitsubishi's warranty protection adds long-term value.

The RVR won't deliver luxury-level refinement or cutting-edge technology, but it provides reliable transportation through Northern Ontario's conditions at a price point that makes AWD SUV ownership accessible to more buyers.

Experience the 2025 RVR at Thunder Bay Mitsubishi

Ready to see how the 2025 RVR fits your budget and lifestyle? Visit Thunder Bay Mitsubishi to explore the complete trim lineup, test AWC on real roads, and discuss financing options that work for first-time buyers. Our team understands Northwestern Ontario driving conditions and can help you select the right RVR configuration for Thunder Bay winters.