2021 Toyota RAV4 – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Spec

The RAV4 Remains one of the Top Selling SUVs

The Toyota RAV4 remains one of the top selling cross-over SUV’s in North America. While there are plenty of reasons why, it really is the fuel efficient hybrid and now available plug-in hybrid options that stacks on top of its already proven reliability and versatility. The RAV4 also offers a wide spectrum of trims to tailor buyer’s needs.

Base LE trims offer all the basic amenities within the economical price bracket. Outdoor enthusiasts can opt for the Adventure and TRD models that offers more premium features and heavier-duty suspensions for when the road ends.

Powertrain

Regardless of trim, all RAV4 models come equipped with a 2.5 liter four cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower. An 8-speed automatic transmission comes standard as the only configuration as well. Adventure models come equipped with all-wheel-drive with the ability to mechanically disconnect from the rear axle for improved fuel economy.

The RAV4 is also offered with a hybrid or plug-in hybrid models that achieves remarkable fuel economy of 41 and 38 mpg in the city and highway respectively. That outright beats the standard RAV4 EPA ratings by an astounding 14mpg and 11 mpg. The RAV4 plugin hybrid achieves an EV range of up to 42 miles and takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to charge on a standard 240V charging station.

Interior And Tech

While aesthetically basic, the RAV4’s interior focuses on functionality that offers plenty of cubby and storage space and durable materials to withstand harsher environments. Our XLE premium trim comes with higher-end materials including faux-leather upholstery, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and the center-console arm rest. Rear seating arrangements can decently fit three mid-size adults with the ability to completely fold down in a 60/40 split arrangement for added cargo space. An available panoramic sunroof is also available for added comfort.

• 

• 

• 

A basic 7″ infotainment system handles all infotainment needs, but a larger 8″ touchscreen and an upgraded JBL premium audio system is available on the XLE trims and above. Navigation must be purchased separately, but the infotainment software supports smartphone connectivity via Android Auto or Apple Carplay.

Test Drive and Final Thoughts

The sound of the classic Toyota engine robustness remains even after many years in production. At just 203 horsepower, the RAV4 provides adequate acceleration for most occasions. For city and highway driving, we prefer the hybrid trim as the electric motor offers after and smoother acceleration from stand still. However, the drive mode selector for snow, dirt or mud available in the Adventure or TRD trim comes in handy when driving in harsh or off-road conditions. We would have liked an off-road version with a hybrid powertrain though to reek the benefits of both off-road adventuring and fuel economy.

Base LE trims can be had for as little as $27,425 while the Adventure trim starts in at $34,530. Opting for the RAV4 hybrid starts in at $28,880 while the plugin-hybrid comes in substantially more at $41,488.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2021 RAV4
• Model : RAV4 Adventure / Hybrid
• Vehicle Type : 5-door Cross-over
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Engine : 2.5 L 4-cylinder or Hybrid/PHEV
• Transmission :  8-speed automatic / CVT (On Hybrid and PHEV

Pros

• Robust and Reliable Powertrain
• Excellent versatility and fuel economy
• Equipped for off-road on Adventure and TRD Trims

Cons

• PHEV price is still high, but hybrid powertrain offers benefits of both cost and fuel economy.
• Offroad trims not offered with a hybrid powertrain.