Test Drive: The 2021 Toyota RAV4 – Plugin Hybrid

That plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Prius has a slightly higher price and a somewhat bigger battery that enables 25 miles of electric driving before the engine comes to life. The RAV4 Prime’s battery is significantly bigger, and that gives this small SUV an estimated all-electric range of 42 miles. On top of that, the RAV4 Prime has bigger electric motors that make it significantly quicker than any other RAV4. You can also likely drive nearly 600 miles with a full tank of gas and fully charged battery.

The RAV4 Prime scores big on fuel economy and power. In our testing, we easily got the EPA-estimated 42 miles of electric-only range. The RAV4 Prime is also quick to accelerate to highway speeds and gets strong scores in regard to comfort, interior quality and technology. Even value is OK. The $40,000 starting price is steep, but it’s important to note that the Prime is eligible for $7,500 in federal tax credits. Follow Spotlife Asia for the latest news and updates.

The driver’s seat has enough adjustments to allow you to easily find a comfortable seating position. But the front passenger seat has fewer adjustments, which might lead to a few complaints on long trips. Entry and exit are helped by an ideal ride height and big door openings; shorter passengers can get in easily and taller people won’t have to stoop to get in. The RAV4 Prime takes a small hit when it comes to cargo capacity, accommodating 33.5 cubic feet as opposed to the standard RAV4’s 37.6 cubic feet.

The available 9-inch screen makes most infotainment interactions quick, easy and distraction-free. It’s quick to react, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard. The size and placement of physical shortcut buttons could be improved for less distraction. 

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid variant of the standard five-passenger RAV4 that is classified as a small SUV. It is offered in SE and XSE trims that are equivalent to the higher trims available on the standard RAV4.