TOYOTA RAV4 ECVT TRANSMISSION - I WAS WRONG AND HERE'S WHY

EV Channels Review

Petrol Ped revisits his earlier criticism of the Toyota RAV4 PHEV's eCVT transmission, admitting he was initially mistaken. After extensive driving and research, he now appreciates the system's clever engineering and efficiency. The review details the roles of the two motor-generators (MG1 and MG2) and the Atkinson cycle engine, explaining how the planetary gear system, managed by MG1, allows the engine to operate at its most efficient RPM range, even if it sounds unusual to those accustomed to traditional gearboxes. While the reviewer still finds the high revving nature of the engine off-putting at times, he acknowledges its efficiency, noting an average of mid-to-high 50s MPG. He praises the smooth EV-only driving and the overall comfort and efficiency of the RAV4 PHEV, concluding that spending more time with the car reveals its sophisticated design, though he expresses a desire for a longer EV-only range in future plug-in hybrid models.