The Toyota RAV4 Goes All-In on Hybrid — and Both Reviews Approve
Dropping the conventional petrol engine entirely was a genuinely bold move for the best-selling SUV in its class. Both reviews agree it paid off.
Betting the Best-Seller on One Powertrain Type
Very few manufacturers would risk simplifying their most important model's engine lineup down to a single technology, especially one that's this commercially important. Reviewers seem to think the gamble was the right one.
Specs at a Glance
| Body style | Compact SUV |
|---|---|
| Powertrains | Hybrid (270bhp FWD/304bhp AWD), Plug-in Hybrid (324bhp) |
| Transmission | e-CVT automatic (all versions) |
| 0–62mph | 7.5 sec (FWD hybrid) |
| Electric-only range (PHEV) | Up to 52 miles |
| Price range (new) | Varies by trim and powertrain |
Full Review Summary
What Car?
What Car? found the front-wheel-drive hybrid, expected to account for the vast majority of sales, offers effortless power delivery that smoothly wakes the petrol engine only when needed beyond what electric power alone can provide. They rated the plug-in hybrid's electric-only range competitive against rivals like the Ford Kuga PHEV and Hyundai Tucson PHEV, and praised generous standard equipment even on entry-level trim, including adaptive cruise control and heated front seats as standard rather than optional extras.
Edmunds
Edmunds' long-term test team highlighted meaningfully improved cabin refinement over the previous generation, crediting reinforced suspension mounting points and additional damping adhesive for reducing road noise and micro-vibrations. They praised the new infotainment system's touchscreen responsiveness and standard wireless smartphone mirroring, though noted the model's more premium trims add cost quickly without proportionate extra value. Fuel economy in their real-world testing beat key hybrid rivals in the segment.
Strengths
- Smooth, effortless hybrid power delivery
- Competitive electric-only range on the plug-in hybrid
- Generous standard equipment even on entry trim
- Noticeably improved cabin refinement over the previous generation
Weak points
- Higher trims add cost quickly without proportionate value
- No conventional petrol-only option for buyers who prefer one
Who It Actually Suits
Buyers who want a genuinely refined, hybrid-only family SUV and don't mind paying a slight premium over less electrified rivals for the smoother power delivery and lower running costs. Company car drivers considering the plug-in hybrid should factor in its strong electric-only range for tax purposes.