Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Review

In terms of driving style, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid does not disappoint. With high-quality materials, innovative technology, and upgrades, it is a great choice. The parts department has genuine Toyota accessories and high-quality and accurate parts.

Based on Car Expert RAV4 reviews, the RAV4 Hybrid powertrain consists of a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with two electric motors, one powering the front wheels and a continuously variable CVT transmission, and one powering the rear wheels. The system has a combined output of 219 horsepower, which is slightly better than the Honda CR-V Hybrid. When smooth, this horsepower delivers torque to the front and rear wheels to maximize grip.

The body design is busy on both sides, front and rear, with many angular shapes. The available 2-tone color scheme may not be to everyone’s taste. But if you want a small SUV with an edgy look, the RAV4 Hybrid will set you apart from the competition.

The RAV4 Hybrid has all-wheel drive, which is standard, with one of the electric motors powering the rear wheels and the second motor (the petrol engine) powering the front via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The hybrid is not only more efficient than the non-electrified model, but also faster. It grabbed a 7.4-second 60 mph time in our hands, while the base model took 8.0 seconds to accomplish the same task.

The Le and XLE models feature a 7.0-inch infotainment display, while the XSE and Limited models feature an 8.8-inch screen. The 8-inch display is included in the XLE model as part of the audio package. RAV4 Prime models also come with 8.0 or 9.0 inch displays.

The EV mode enables operation with battery power at low speeds for short distances or under limited circumstances, such as in a multi-storey car park. Your actual mileage may vary depending on the way you drive and maintain your vehicle. Financing offers are available to qualified buyers, subject to credit approval, regardless of whether the buyer qualifies or not. Prices include incentives: These incentives are available only upon registration with Toyota.

Prices do not include government fees, taxes, financing fees, electronic filing fees, emissions test fees, dealer installed accessories, and $85 documentation and handling fees for dealers. Graduates and military discounts (if applicable) are not included. The quoted price does not include any options installed by the dealer and excludes leasing. The specified interest rate is subject to the qualification of the buyer.

Prices and available quantities are subject to change without prior notice. It is your responsibility to check the accuracy of vehicle prices and details with the dealer. Although places do their utmost to ensure that prices quoted are accurate and up-to-date, dealers are not responsible for technical or human errors in typography, pricing, product information, or advertising.

Given that all-electric hybrid powertrains continue to proliferate in the automotive industry, it is no surprise that hybrid car specialist Toyota is offering the RAV4 Hybrid, a plug-in hybrid that the RAV4 calls Prime. Based on the regular non-hybrid RAV 4 tested, the Prime offers similar functionality, but has better fuel efficiency and, in the case of the Prime, a respectable all-electric range, earning it an Editor’s Choice Award. Toyota has learned the lessons of the Prius hybrid with its entry into the trendy compact SUV class. Toyota is not alone in this segment, with hybrid versions of the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mitsubishi Outlander also available, making it well equipped to compete for your hard earned dollars.

Whether it is the standard variable epicyclic power-split motor / generator / gearbox or the electric rear-wheel drive, you will tick the AWD box. The 2.5-liter gasoline engine is a new turbo with Atkinson cycle valve timing, which Toyota prefers in its hybrids. The components work together to lose weight and friction, and the rear engine is strong enough to generate most of the torque even at low speeds. The system output is 215 hp, with 221 hp from AWD.

The Toyota RAV4 started out as a funky little crossover before transforming into a simple competitor to conventional SUVs like the Nissan Qashqai, Honda CR-V, and Peugeot 3008. It is now the fifth generation of the car, and it is now available as a hybrid, which brings lower operating costs and plenty of room for passengers. Despite poor infotainment, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions at 0-100 km / h (hybrid: 48 / 49mpg, 13.1 / 13.4g / km, 81 / 84s), it has been around for more than a decade, and the latest version is the best yet.

The RAV4 Hybrid, equipped with stylish 18-inch alloy wheels (standard in the XLE Premium specification), takes on a sophisticated, tough appearance that belies its fuel-guzzler status. It sits high on the wheels and looks as if it is ready for modest street action. The infotainment system is state-of-the-art with up-to-date graphics, but at least covers the most important communication and entertainment functions.

Handling is competent, but the 67-inch RAV4 has a slimmer body than most crossover models, as well as the steering. In addition, the regenerative brakes of the hybrid have good grip, a side effect of the braking system that uses converted braking energy from its batteries. Above all, potential buyers should be sure that the RAV 4 drives well and, despite all-wheel drive, hardly fidgets on bumpy pavements.

The roofline and chunky body sides are a boon to its appeal, and they also sometimes make the RAV4 uncomfortable, with less headroom for taller passengers.

Direct shifting capability and intelligent transmission control are standard equipment. Sport, eco, and normal driving modes are standard, including hill start assist and active cornering assist. Independent MacPherson struts on the front suspension and the multi-link suspension on the rear axle smooth the ride. The RAV4 hybrid models have a multi-electric motor that produces up to 118 hp.

Sport, eco, and normal driving modes are selected in the centre console’s rotary knobs and, like many hybrids, have an impact on performance. A separate trail mode provides more traction on the wheels, while the EV mode provides electrical operation for only short distances.

The EPA’s estimated fuel economy is an excellent 39 mpg combined. The lithium-ion hybrid battery can be recharged from the gas engine for regenerative braking.