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Electrified Towing Capacity: 2021 RAV4 Prime vs RAV4 Hybrid

We have RAV4 Prime towing capacity ratings. See how it stacks up against other popular RAV4 models.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE Supersonic Red profile view

The best-selling SUV in the country has found a way to become even more popular. With the imminent release of 2021 RAV4 Prime, buyers will have an opportunity to own a vehicle that does what no other RAV4 has ever done before.

Imagine a Toyota RAV4 with more horsepower than a V6 Camry or Avalon. Faster acceleration than any other Toyota (except for Supra). And a longer electric driving range than Prius Prime.

This one could set records for initial consumer demand. On a side note, I just hope Toyota finds a way to supply enough of them to avoid waiting lists of 6-12 months. That would not be fair to do to people after building up the hype so much.

2021 RAV4 Prime Towing Capacity

One of the factors consumers look at while doing vehicle research is how much it can tow, pull and haul. Will it be able to accommodate bike racks, trailers, campers and boats sufficiently?

I mean, a vehicle has to fit a family’s lifestyle, right?

Alex on Autos, a very popular YouTube auto review channel, discussed towing capacity for 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime recently. This was very eye-opening and interesting to see where RAV4 Prime ranks in the towing spectrum for all RAV4 models.

Toyota RAV4 Prime towing capacity is rated at 2,500 pounds. Many people speculated this number would be exactly identical to current hit RAV4 Hybrid.

2019 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid Ruby Flare Pearl profile and front end
RAV4 XLE Hybrid in Ruby Flare Pearl

Tow capacity for RAV4 Hybrid is 1,750 pounds. Gasoline-powered RAV4 trim levels are rated at 1,500 pounds.

For people requiring higher towing capabilities, it might be a good idea to try RAV4 Adventure or RAV4 TRD Off-Road models. These are rated at 3,500 pounds.

Time for your thoughts on 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

Are you impressed so far with RAV4 Prime specs?

VIDEO: 2021 RAV4 Prime XSE Review

5.7 seconds for 0-60 time. Really fast for an SUV.

302 horsepower. Gets up to speed quickly.

42 miles on one single electric charge. Perfect for daily commuters to use very little fuel over time.

Have you looked into getting your name on the waiting list yet at your local dealership? What has the process been?

Will you choose RAV4 Prime SE or XSE, and if XSE, will you pick the upgraded Premium Package?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I compare RAV4 Prime vs RAV4 Hybrid.

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Comments

Al D (not verified)    June 17, 2020 - 11:35AM

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I live in Southwest Florida and hope I don't have to wait too long for one. I'm hoping many people who want a RAV4 Prime will settle for the Ford Escape PHEV instead. Not me. I'll wait

NK (not verified)    June 17, 2020 - 6:37PM

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I'm on the waiting list at a Portland dealership. I gave them $1000 deposit but waiting to hear what their allotment may be. I doubt I will be in the first round.

DGP (not verified)    August 2, 2020 - 9:29AM

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I bought the 2021 RAV4 PRIME SE this week. I really wanted the XSE but I’m just glad I was able to get one! LOVING it so far!

Matt Bruckbauer (not verified)    January 3, 2021 - 12:43PM

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On paper the rav4 prime has good towing capacity, but where is the company that can provide and install a hitch rated for its stated towing capacity ?

T.P. Life (not verified)    January 18, 2021 - 3:16PM

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I have a sellers license, and bought the Rav4 Hybrid XLE. No, I'm not gonna pay $5-10k over MSRP (plus absurd dealer packs) for a loaded up XSE here in Kaliunicornia to get a $10k rebate, LOL. After working with 7 dealerships, we got out of one at $1.5 under MSRP plus parts at employee's cost (20% over dealer cost), $33k out the door with all taxes and fees. The Prime would have cost us $54k, no way would be re-coup the gas savings over the years we will own this car.

Drew (not verified)    January 26, 2021 - 5:30PM

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Cost savings of plug-in drive trains are mostly in avoided maintenance, not fuel savings -- electric powertrains require much less maintenance. That's why all sophisticated fleet managers are looking to switch in the near term. See MIT's recent study -- google "MIT Carbon Counter." Lower emissions = Lower cost these days.

T. P. Life (not verified)    February 28, 2021 - 3:11PM

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The Adventure and TRD models have a larger radiator, and an extra transmission and oil cooler. We're adding a Delare 8000 transmission cooler and AirLift coil spring supports along with a Tekonsha P3 Trailer Brake Controller to up the safe towing capacity of our XLE Hybrid Rav4.