Here’s Why a 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Might Not Be the Best Choice for You

If you are a first-time hybrid prospect, is the hybrid life really for you?

As a hybrid driver myself, I see a lot of things that help me in the real world in terms of driving that a typical gas car does not. Things like gas mileage or reliability. So far, our 2012 Prius has been very reliable and with regular maintenance like oil and brakes, nothing bad has really happened other than a light bulb in the headlights went out which needed tending too.

Now while it is inevitable that the ICE vehicle will not remain the world’s best and most efficient mode of 4-wheel transportation, it is certain to say that we still have a way to go. If we immediately stop production and sales of all ICE vehicles, think of all the jobs that would be lost. Immediate change is never good for anyone.

Because of this, a prospective 2022 Toyota RAV4 buyer posted her skepticism on Facebook’s Toyota RAV4 club. In the post she said, “Hybrid or gas, and why? I live in a rural area in Canada about 600km from any larger cities.” Now we already know its going to take about 1-3 years for her to get a RAV4 Prime but the question here is should she get full gas or hybrid?

Now rationally speaking, I would go with the hybrid because of gas prices, right? It’s only logical that you take the most efficient route. However, should she be worried about the intense Canadian winters? Afterall we already know that a cold climate is not a hybrid or an EV’s bet friend.

Faheem Bhanji said, “Wife has a limited hybrid, and we are in Calgary. No issues in -40 winters at all. Went Calgary to Edmonton (3-hour trip) on the weekend. Half a tank round trip.” Now given the weather and condition of the highway, with the use of a half of a tank of gas to drive 6 hours, that’s extremely efficient.

Now if you live in the city, it’s a no brainer that you should buy a hybrid as your choice of RAV4. The use of the battery to put your car in motion saves a lot on gas. In fact, the only time your car uses the most gas per time is when you move from a standstill or turn on your car.

So whether you live in the plains of Kansas, the dystopia of New York City, or the great Tundra of the Siberian Mountains, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the perfect choice of RAV4 for you.

What do you think? What would stop you from getting a hybrid? Let us know in the comments below.

Harutiun Hareyan is reporting Toyota news at Torque News. His automotive interests and vast experience test-riding new cars give his stories a sense of authenticity and unique insights. Follow Harutiun on Twitter at @HareyanHarutiun for daily Toyota news.