2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime

As the more powerful and economical sibling to one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime's plug-in hybrid powertrain makes it a compelling option. It boasts the same impressive levels of comfort and practicality as the regular model, but its inline-four engine with dual electric motors gives it a bit of a kick thanks to 302 horsepower, and the 18.1-kWh battery avails it with a 42-mile all-electric driving range. This puts the PHEV in a strong position as it contends with the Hyundai Tucson and Ford Escape hybrids. It is hampered by a slightly higher starting price, though, and it doesn't excel in terms of fuel economy or driving pleasure, preferring to strike a mediocre balance between the two. Is this enough for the 2023 RAV4 Prime to remain popular as more well-rounded EVs enter the USA?

The cost of a hybrid vehicle is always higher than that of a gas-powered version, and this is evident in the price of the new Toyota RAV4 Prime. A base-model SE trim will set you back over $40,000, or rather $42,340, to be exact, while the top trim is the XSE, priced at $46,210. However, this is the MSRP of the Toyota RAV4 Prime, and it does not include the $1,335 delivery charge or any other administrative fees.

The new Toyota RAV4 Prime SUV has not received any additional power or improvements to handling. However, it was already the most spirited model in the lineup thanks to its hybridized powertrain. The instant torque delivery helps to make it feel faster than it actually is, with quick acceleration - up to a point. It also handles competently for such a heavy vehicle, though calling it fun to drive would be a stretch.

If anything, the RAV4 Prime focuses on being a people hauler that won't struggle to cope as your family grows. There is a definite focus on ease of driving and ride comfort, with the soft suspension handling bumps more easily than corners. That being said, it has enough ground clearance to handle some dirt roads, mud, and snow, though hard-core off-roading is not on the cards.

The plug-in hybrid Toyota RAV4 has a lot going for it over the regular model, including significantly more power and far greater fuel economy. However, this all comes at a cost that buyers in the compact crossover segment may not be willing to pay. But once you start looking at it holistically, you'll find that you are getting your money's worth.

Both of the available trims come well-stocked with tech, and ticking a few options doesn't send the price rocketing, so you can have your cake and eat it. And, considering the vehicle's 42-mile all-electric range, you can see significant savings if you only drive short distances around town between charging cycles. This process only takes 2.5 hours on a Level 2 charger. In review, the Toyota RAV4 Prime might not be the perfect fit for everyone, but considering that charging stations are becoming more common at businesses, it could be a smart investment for those not yet willing to commit to a full EV.

While the XSE comes with more tech and luxuries, it asks for quite a bit more money than the base SE. Considering that the Toyota RAV4 Prime isn't exactly cheap to start with, that may be a bit too much for some people to swallow. On the plus side, it boasts the same great fuel economy. But when it comes to getting the best value for your money, the SE makes the most sense, especially since it comes with the full Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of features and the updated infotainment system that supports wireless smartphone integration.