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Many people in the automotive world have been waiting for today. Waiting patiently for November 20th. You see, today is the day Toyota finally reveals all the secret information about the highly-anticipated 2021 Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid. This morning, we got our wish.

We now have a much better idea of the specifications for this powerful addition to RAV4’s already impressive lineup of gasoline and hybrid offerings. Horsepower. Quickness. Trims. Even a new name. You will be impressed.

Meet the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime.

Performance Specs for RAV4 Prime – Faster Than a V6 RAV4?

There was a time when the 2012 RAV4 with V6 engine was the fastest vehicle in Toyota’s lineup. Its 0-60 time was 6.3 seconds. People still remember this one fondly, and they question often “when will Toyota bring back the RAV4 V6”? Last month I wrote a Torque News story asking this same question. With the introduction of the 2021 RAV4 Prime, there is really not much need to mention RAV4 and V6 in the same conversation anymore. Well, unless you want to, of course.

It seems almost unimaginable to write that the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime produces an astounding 302 horsepower. Only a handful of Toyota models deliver more power. Even the 2020 Camry V6 has less power (well, by 1 horsepower, but still). Can you imagine a Toyota RAV4 with over 300hp? Anyone who hoped for quicker acceleration in a RAV4 now has their wish granted.

Speaking of acceleration, those who want a RAV4 can now better than ever swiftly climb a hill, get up to highway speed quickly, and pass slower cars when needed. The 2021 RAV4 Prime has a manufacturer-rated 0-60 time of 5.8 seconds. Only the 2020 Supra, which is Toyota-rated at 4.1 seconds but probably faster, is quicker off the line.

This is fast. This is performance. This is what we have been asking and hoping for.

Fuel facts on 2021 RAV4 Prime

Remember when you thought 40mpg combined for the 2019 and 2020 RAV4 Hybrid was incredible fuel efficiency? Well, it is still really great. Combining 219 horsepower, terrific gas mileage and a reasonable price, RAV4 Hybrid has worked hard to earn its “best-selling hybrid on the market” title.

However, let it sink in and marinate a little when I tell you the 2021 RAV4 Prime is rated at 90 combined MPGe (miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent). MPGe is a measurement of distance traveled per unit of energy consumed, and it is different from traditional MPG in that it takes into account both gasoline and electric consumption.

RAV4 Prime’s MPGe is more than double the current fuel economy of RAV4 Hybrid. Wow.

The RAV4 Prime also has an all-electric driving range of 39 miles, which means drivers can go up to 39 miles utilizing only electric power and no gasoline. This one specification alone will make it an excellent option for both commuters and long road trip families and adventurers.

In comparison, the 2020 Toyota Prius Prime is rated at 133MPGe and has an all-electric range of 25 miles. Its fuel tank is 11.4 gallons and estimated total driving range on one tank of gasoline is 640 miles.

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK as I detail 2021 RAV4 Prime Specs in my video review

I wrote a story earlier this week (not yet knowing that RAV4 plug-in would be named RAV4 Prime) drawing potential comparisons between the RAV4 plug-in hybrid and Prius Prime.

Details of total “one-tank” driving range for the new RAV Prime have not been released yet. This is one piece of the puzzle I cannot wait to learn.

I’ll Take “Potpourri” for $600 please Alex

At Torque News our reporters have a professional teamwork approach to vehicle news. My colleague John Goreham wrote a great piece earlier today listing RAV4 Prime specifics in detail. Read his story from this link. Here are some other bullet points to look forward to with the “new” Prime:

• Available in both SE and XSE trims.
• Utilizes a newly-developed high-capacity Lithium-Ion battery.
• 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine combined with electric motors.
• Uses same Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive as current 2020 RAV4 Hybrid.

Time for your thoughts on 2021 RAV4 Prime

Plan to see the 2021 RAV4 Prime shipping to dealerships in the summer of 2020. Pricing is not yet available.
What do you think of the specifications for the newest RAV4 model? Based on what you now know, do you think you will consider purchasing a RAV4 Prime when it comes out?

Also, has your opinion of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles changed over the last few years as these technologies become more and more prevalent?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I explain why you should add accessories to your new car the same time you buy it.

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Bookmark Jeff Teague's Toyota News and Reviews at Torque News Toyota. Please subscribe to Jeff’s “Toyotajeff” YouTube channel for Toyota news, reviews and how-to videos. Follow Jeff on Facebook and Instagram. Find him on Twitter @toyotajeff1 and tweet him tips for new stories. All of Jeff's reports can be found on Torque News Toyota coverage and at Toyota Highlander. Check back again and search for Torque News Toyota news for more Toyota news coverage.