2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Overview
The 2023 RAV4 Hybrid and plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime promise to deliver exceptional fuel efficiency to the compact-SUV sector, much like their hybridized Prius hatchback ancestor. As a result, they achieve their goal. However, the improved performance isn't the only perk of their electrified drivetrains. One reason is their increased speed compared to a standard RAV4; in fact, the Prime model can reach 60 mph faster than a four-cylinder Supra sports car, which is quite an accomplishment. Unfortunately, the RAV4 Hybrid doesn't handle like a sports vehicle; in fact, its lackadaisical demeanor on the road won't impress those who want a sporty car for daily use. The Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage are three mainstream SUVs (not sports sedans) that offer a bit more driver engagement. Furthermore, hybrid versions are available from all of them. Nonetheless, the RAV4 Hybrid is more than enough to make an SUV-loving American happy because it is a good-looking, functional, and comfortable little crossover that is thrifty at the petrol pump.
For the year 2023, what's new?
As of 2023, the RAV4 Hybrid lineup will have a new Woodland Edition that is built for tough terrain. All-terrain tires are just one of the many off-roading enhancements that come standard on the Woodland Edition. Other features include a TRD suspension package, bronze alloys, a roof rack, mud flaps, black exterior badging, and a set of all-weather floor mats with the Woodland Edition emblem. Only black, blue, and white are allowed on the outside. Toyota's next-generation infotainment system is a significant improvement over the previous generation, and it comes standard on all models. It features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as well as over-the-air software updates.
The RAV4 Prime is a no-brainer if you are eligible for the $7500 electric-vehicle tax credit; the government's financial incentive significantly reduces its price, and you get a RAV4 with additional power and a significant electric-only driving range. The XSE comes more fully equipped than the S, with standard 19-inch alloys, a sunroof, and an infotainment system that boasts a larger 10.5-inch touchscreen. The XLE Hybrid is a good option if you can't use the tax credit because it comes with more features than the LE trim level does without significantly increasing the price. Passive keyless entry, a power-adjustable driver's seat, LED projector headlights with automatic high beams, heated exterior mirrors, blind-spot monitoring, and front fog lamps are some of the luxuries available to XLE buyers.
Drivetrain, Power, and Efficiency
Together, the RAV4 Hybrid's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors produce 219 horsepower. One electric motor drives the back wheels, while the other motor and the gas engine power the front wheels in a configuration known as all-wheel drive (CVT). The RAV4 Hybrid outperforms the regular RAV4 in both speed and fuel economy. In our hands, it sprang to life, accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 7.4 seconds, while the gas-only version took 8.0. Especially in the city, where the electric motor's instantaneous power delivery provides the vehicle an extra jolt when starting off, drivers will feel that vigor. The Prime model is ready to satisfy your need for increased speed. The RAV4 Prime reached 60 mph in under 5.6 seconds during our testing. While the RAV4's normal handling and ride are fine, the hybrid and Prime variants are even better.
Dimensions of Mobility: Operating Distance, Battery Life, and Recharging
The EPA estimates that the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid can travel 42 miles on electric power alone, thanks to its 18.1 kWh battery pack. We were able to get 32 miles out of our test drive on power alone, but that was on the highway; in the city, we may have expected a far greater range. The Prime XSE comes with a basic 3.3-kWh onboard charger and an optional 6.6-kWh charger, which together reduce the required charging time from a 240-volt outlet from 7.5 hours to just 2.5. A 120-volt outlet will take roughly 12 hours to fully charge a device.
Typical Gas Mileage and Efficiency
The hybrid RAV4's fuel economy is significantly better than that of a gas-powered, all-wheel-drive RAV4. According to the EPA, it will get 41 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and 40 mpg combined, which is better than the standard RAV4 in all three categories by 14, 5, and 11 mpg, respectively. The RAV4 Hybrid achieved 37 mpg in our highway fuel economy test, which is 1 mpg lower than the EPA's estimated average for the vehicle. Our highway fuel economy test resulted in 73 MPGe, which is lower than the Prime's EPA combined rating of 94 MPGe. The EPA website has details on the fuel economy of the RAV4 Hybrid.
Vehicle Cabin, Passenger Space, and Cargo Capacity
The cabin of the RAV4 Hybrid is solidly constructed and well-equipped, but it puts function ahead of form. You'll have plenty of places to store your little items in the numerous nooks and bins, and you won't have any trouble locating or using any of the controls. Toyota includes many convenient features, even in the lowest trim, like dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilting and telescopic steering wheel, and a false floor that can be adjusted for cargo height. As you move up the model levels, you'll be able to enjoy niceties like heated front and back seats, mood lighting, and Toyota's upscale synthetic leather upholstery, called SofTex. In our tests, we were able to place 10 carry-on luggage behind the second row of the RAV4 Hybrid and 22 with the rear seat folded down. This is the same amount of room as the standard RAV4.
