2021 TOYOTA RAV4 PRIME TEST RESULTS; HOW BIG TECH IS INFLUENCING THE AUTO INDUSTRY

EV Channels Review

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a compelling plug-in hybrid SUV, praised for its strong 302 horsepower acceleration and surprisingly improved ride quality over the standard RAV4, attributed to suspension adjustments compensating for battery weight. The vehicle offers an impressive 40 miles of electric-only range, and for many, the ability to significantly reduce gasoline consumption for daily commutes is a major benefit. However, the Prime exhibits notably long stopping distances in both dry and wet conditions, and a high-pitched, somewhat annoying backup warning signal. While generally reliable and featuring standard safety tech like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, its higher price point is partially offset by a federal tax incentive. The reviewer highlights that for those with shorter daily commutes and access to charging, it's a more appealing alternative to a full EV, but for longer-distance drivers without easy charging access, a standard hybrid might be more efficient due to the added weight of the plug-in system. The charging port's manual cover is also noted as a minor inconvenience compared to more automated systems.