2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2020: What is New
Toyota RAV4 was redesigned in 2019. It was built pretty much completely new from the ground up with a new Toyota New Global Architecture platform.
Drivers and their passengers can expect improved ride quality, technology, safety and comfort with this fifth generation RAV4.
Sales of Toyota RAV4 are high and buyers have made this the best-selling small SUV in the country for the last three years.
Keeping this in mind, there really should not be too many updates and changes to expect two years into a vehicle life cycle.
Still, I do have a few changes to mention that may assist you with your vehicle research.
2021 RAV4 Hybrid Updates
For 2020 model year, people interested in a RAV4 had 10 different grades to choose from – six gasoline (LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Limited, Adventure and TRD Off-Road) and four hybrid models (LE, XLE, Limited and XSE).
Expect to see a new trim level for 2021. And it is a familiar one, of sorts.
Look for the 2021 RAV4 XLE Premium to reach dealerships this month (October). Supplies should continue increasing through the remainder of the year.
Features upgraded from a RAV4 XLE Hybrid you might enjoy are standard SofTex seats, power liftgate and moonroof. This is actually very similar to gasoline RAV4 XLE Premium models – just with a different powertrain and fuel economy.
This is the only new addition or change you will find for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
Well, in a way at least.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
Even though this is already available in a handful of states scattered across the country, 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime should be counted as a 2021 RAV4 Hybrid update.
This new SUV is a game changer.
Specs to consider:
- 302 horsepower – this is the most powerful RAV4 ever.
- 0-60 time of 5.7 seconds – quickest RAV4 of all time.
- 42-mile driving range – no gasoline used during this range.
- 90 MPGe fuel efficiency.
- 2,500-lb. towing capacity.
The 2021 RAV4 Prime uses a combination of a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and three electric motors for power. This is matched with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission with sequential shift mode.
Since it uses hybrid power, as I mentioned we are definitely counting this as a RAV4 Hybrid change.
Now, if only people were able to purchase a 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime in every state (including my high-volume Southeast region). Come on Toyota. To quote Rob Schneider, “You can Do it.”
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 2021 RAV4 TRD Off-Road adds an important feature you will need.
Time for your thoughts on 2021 RAV4
Thanks for reading everyone.
All RAV4 Hybrid models for model year 2019, 2020 and 2021 are powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motors, along with an electronically controlled CVT with sequential shift mode. This produces 219 horsepower, which gives it a power advantage versus gasoline RAV4 models.
What trim level of Toyota RAV4 are you most interested in? Do you own one, and if so, what year and how many miles do you have?
What Toyota models would you like to see me review more on my Toyotajeff YouTube channel?
See you next story when I discuss new safety features on 2021 Camry and 2021 Highlander.
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