2023 Toyota RAV Prime Plug-In PHEV: A Closer Look

VEHICLE FRONT

The Toyota RAV4 hybrid has been a popular seller due to its excellent fuel economy numbers. The upgraded Prime version can offer even higher fuel efficiency, and be driven in electric-only mode.

Text and photos by Chad Haire

EMBLEM

The only way to tell the Prime from the other RAV4 models is the emblems scattered on the outside body panels.

EV PLUG

The main selling feature of the Prime is the ability to run on electricity only for up to 42 miles. Charging in a common 120-volt household socket can be done overnight. In a more potent 240-volt box, plan on 2-4 hours. Super quick public chargers rated at 50/150/350 KWH can do it in as little as 45 minutes but are expensive to use.

ENGINE

Once the main battery runs dry after 42 miles, the gas engine takes over. It is connected to a hybrid system with electric motors to provide a claimed 38 mpg. If you drove one way 42 miles in EV mode, then came back 42 miles on the gas engine, the average could be over 80 mpg.   But on a long trip coast to coast, the EV battery wouldn't make much difference in fuel economy.

WHEELS/TIRES

With electric motors on each end, this is advertised as an all-wheel drive vehicle. Traction is excellent as a result.

DRIVE MODE

A drive mode button allows Eco, Normal, or Sport operation. There is also a "trail" button for off-pavement use.

SPARE TIRE

It is rare for a hybrid vehicle to have a spare tire, but we did get one here. This is a must if the SUV is going to be taken out in the dirt unless you like walking after getting a flat.

INFO SCREEN

The info screen isn't very large, but the quality of resolution is very high. The climate controls are separate and easy to use.

HEADLIGHTS

The LED projector headlights gave an excellent performance with very strong beams.

POV STREET

The standard RAV hybrid puts out 219 horsepower. With all systems running, Prime can crank up to 302 hp. It is also very comfortable to drive in daily commuting.

POV OFF ROAD

With high ground clearance, all-wheel traction, and the TRAIL mode setting, the Prime can be taken into the dirt. However, adventures are to be light duty trips only.

MPG

Driving on the gas/hybrid system only, the EPA claims 38 mpg, but we got 34 in all driving conditions. The extra weight of all those batteries could be the cause. But this is a good figure for city driving.

PRICE

The standard RAV4 hybrid we also tested maxed out at $37,316. The Prime topped at $50,731. However, assuming the $7,500 federal tax credit for EV vehicles is in effect, the price difference drops. Also, the Prime will have a slightly higher resale value. All things considered, it might not cost much more than the plain hybrid once the math is done.

VEHICLE REAR

Another selling feature of the Prime is it's actually made in Japan by Japanese workers, which explains the high quality of workmanship. That alone is worth a few extra bucks!