How To Optimize Your Gas Mileage on Your 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

You bought a 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid because you wanted a hybrid SUV, here is how to make sure you get those MPG benefits.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is seen as a sort of renaissance for hybrid vehicles. Hybrids used to either come in sedans or hatchbacks. However, Toyota has really stepped its game up with the release of the RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 plug-in Hybrid.

These two Hybrid SUVs both get over 40 MPG combined and are extremely capable of just about any use for a mid-sized SUV. Granted, this isn’t the type of SUV that you take to the mud patch every Saturday unlike the Sequoia or Land Cruiser, however, the RAV4 is meant to serve as a family car and be economical. This leads us to today’s topic.

Rachel Tank recently asked this question on the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid group on Facebook. She said, “I'm only getting 37mpg can anyone tell me what I'm doing wrong? Is there a way to turn AWD off and does that help?”

So, the AWD system on the 2022 Toyota RAV4s is a little unique. According to Toyota and our trusted Toyota source, the AWD cannot be manually turned on or off. It activates when it senses a loss of traction.

So, let’s say you are driving on the highway getting around 42 MPG and suddenly you have to pull over onto a dirt road. Currently, you are not using the AWD system because most highways in the U.S are smooth. So once the computer senses that there is a loss in traction, the AWD system automatically kicks in.

So why is Rachel only getting 37mpg? Could be several factors. She didn’t specify what kind of terrain she normally drives on. Driving on dirt requires more gas consumption because of the uneven terrain and the engine’s response to said terrain.

It could also be due to some sort of computer failure or just a bad computer which is highly unlikely given this is a brand-new car. It could also be how she drives. I tend to have a light foot when driving. I don’t crush the gas or drive it on the floor. If in case a 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid owner does drive with a heavy foot, it could potentially lead to lower MPGs.

Let’s take a look at what some of the other RAV4 Hybrid owners said. Kimberly Koester gave some good advice. She said, “A Hybrid takes time to get used to! I've had mine for 18 months. Here are some tips: Make sure your first trip of the day isn't a really short one, especially in colder weather. When you get up to the speed you want, ease up slightly on the gas pedal so it drops into EV mode. Slower take-offs from a stop help also.”

So given this information, increasing your MPG in your 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid basically can be done by driving in a different manner (not heavy footed), and by driving smartly and on paved roads. Don’t expect to get 45 MPG while off-roading. It just simply doesn’t work like that. Also, hybrids learn. So if you just got your 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, don’t expect to get the full MPG that it’s rated for. It’ll take some time for your car to get used to your driving habits and adapt itself to maximize your MPG.

What do you think? Does your RAV4 Hybrid get all the MPG it should? 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.