- toyota is adding a new rav4 model to the crossover's lineup for 2021 in the form of the new rav4 prime plug-in hybrid.
- the rav4 prime will offer a 302-hp hybrid powertrain capable of a claimed 5.8-second zero-to-60-mph run and up to 39 miles of electric-only driving.
- buyers interested in purchasing a rav4 prime won't have to wait long: toyota says the new plug-in rav will roll onto dealer lots in summer 2020.
toyota's popular rav4 compact suv will be welcoming a plug-in-hybrid model to its ranks next summer when the rav4 prime plug-in hybrid reaches dealer showrooms. it's the first plug-in hybrid rav4 in the model's long history and toyota is marketing it both as the sporty choice in the lineup and the green option.
the rav4's 2.5-liter inline-four engine makes a paltry 176 horsepower, but it is augmented by a pair of electric motors that boost total system horsepower to a stout 302 horsepower. toyota claims this makes the rav4 prime capable of a 5.8-second zero-to-60-mph time. we're looking forward to testing that claim and plan to visit our test track with the suv in the coming year.
as a plug-in, the rav4 prime is said to offer up to 39 miles of electric-only driving on a charge, which is decent compared to other plug-in hybrids, including the toyota prius prime, which is rated at just 25 miles before the gasoline engine kicks in. the rav4 prime will offer standard all-wheel drive thanks to a rear-mounted electric motor, similar to the normal hybrid rav4.
toyota will offer the rav4 prime in se or xse trim levels, which will feature piano-black exterior trim pieces, sporty wheel designs, and a prime-exclusive grille design. going with the xse upgrades the wheels from 18- to 19 inches. it also adds a two-tone exterior scheme with a floating black-painted roof, vertical led accent lights, paddle shifters, interior ambient lighting, a sunroof, faux-leather upholstery, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.
all 2020 toyota hybrid models will now come with a longer battery warranty, and that lengthened policy will apply to the 2021 rav4 prime as well. the new policy offers protection for 10 years or 150,000 miles, up from eight years or 100,000 miles for 2019 models.