2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Joins the Electric Revolution

Toyota’s hybrid powertrain has stood test of time prving ultra reliability and exceptional fuel economy over the last 24 years to be exact. With the global transition towards cleaner energy, it would only make sense to offer its hybrid powertrain to one of consumer’s favorites – the RAV4.

The EV boom is just around the corner and the RAV4 doesn’t go the full distance as a pure EV, but the smaller 18.1 kwh lithium ion battery pack will help give the RAV4 prime an EV range of an estimated 42 miles with available Level 1 or Level 2 AC charging that takes 12 / 4.5 hours to fully charge respectively.

Starting at $44,990 for the base SE trim requires a bit of a reach into most pockets, but with up to $7,500 of government incentives / tax credits, that brings it a bit closer within the realms of affordability. Opting for the higher XSE trim a better audio system, smartphone connectivity for EV charging, larger 19″ wheels and a power moonroof for $51,590. Available is also a Premium Technology Package upgrade that gets you a panoramic moonroof, 4-way power adjustable passenger seats, ventilated front seats enhanced Softex leather seats and adaptive headlights.

Despite its stigma that has lingered around the Prius for decades; rest assured, boring need not apply here. That’s because the RAV4 Prime packs a net 302 horsepower thanks to its 2.5L Atkinson Cycle 4-cylinder engine working in tandem with a high-efficiency AC induction motor. Needless to say, it’s faster than what you would expect from a RAV4 especially with instantaneous torque from the electric motor and the help of a CVT transmission.

Yes, it’s got a CVT transmission to help with optimizing fuel efficiency that will feel a bit awkward at first, but it’s easy to get used to it.

Interior cabin space is themed for outdoor-purpose with rubber dials and hard floor mats while leaving plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. Extra cargo convenience is made possible with its 60/40 rear folding seats and electronic lift gate standard across all trims.

An 8″ infotainment touchscreen, but can be upgraded to a larger 9″ screen and an upgraded 11 speaker JBL audio system via the Premium Technology Package upgrade is available.

Road practice shows no reserve with swift and linear acceleration because there are no gears to shift through like a conventional transmission, and the AWD system helps keep all wheels planted under hard acceleration. It’s smooth and quiet for daily city driving and highway cruising minus the occasional engine buzz when throttle stabbing is required.

The RAV4 or any other lineup under Toyota’s belt hasn’t reached full EV status just yet, and the only available charging method is through the conventional level 1 or level 2 AC charging that takes 12 / 4.5 hours for a full charge respectively.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2021 Toyota RAV4
• Model : RAV4 Prime (XSE with Premium Technology Package)
• Vehicle Type : 5-door Cross-over
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Engine : 2.5L 4 Cylinder Atkinson Cycle Engine
• Transmission :  E-CVT
• Price as tested: $56,990

Pros

• Adds Plugin-Hybrid EV range of 42 miles
• Smooth and powerful acceleration with up to 302 horsepower
• Good interior quality and comfort
• Standard All-Wheel-Drive system

Cons

• Lacks full-EV options
• E-CVT transmission takes a bit to get used to
• Lack of DC Fast charging support.