The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular SUVs in the world, and for good reason. It offers a spacious, versatile cabin, reliable, efficient powertrain, and a comfortable and refined ride. But what if you want more? More power, more range, more features, and more fun? Enter the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime, the plug-in hybrid version of the RAV4 that promises to deliver the best of both worlds: electric driving and gas backup.
Performance and Range
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime is not your typical plug-in hybrid. It's not just a Toyota RAV4 with a bigger battery and a plug. It's a performance-oriented SUV that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest Toyota models ever. It also has a whopping 302 horsepower, thanks to an enhanced version of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors that power all four wheels. And it can travel up to 42 miles on electricity alone, which is enough for most daily commutes. When the battery runs low, it switches to hybrid mode and gets an impressive 38 mpg combined.
Technology and Features
The RAV4 Prime is also packed with cutting-edge technology and features that make it stand out from the crowd. It has a large 10.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and JBL premium audio. It has a digital rearview mirror that can switch to a camera view for better visibility. It has a head-up display that projects key information on the windshield. It has a host of advanced safety and driver-assist systems, such as:
- adaptive cruise control
- lane-keeping assist
- blind-spot monitoring
- rear cross-traffic alert.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Prime plug-in hybrid is available in two trim levels: SE and XSE. The SE is well-equipped with features such as:
- LED headlights
- heated front seats
- a power liftgate
- a wireless charging pad
- 18-inch alloy wheels.
The XSE adds more style and luxury with features such as
- two-tone exterior paint
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- red-painted shock absorbers
- panoramic sunroof
- ventilated front seats
- heated rear seats
- ambient lighting
- paddle shifters.
The RAV4 Prime is a great plug-in hybrid SUV and a great value proposition. It starts at around $44,000 for the SE trim and around $48,000 for the XSE trim. But thanks to federal and state tax credits and incentives, you can save thousands of dollars off the sticker price. For example, the RAV4 Prime qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit and up to $2,500 in California rebates. In some states, you can get a Toyota RAV4 Prime for as low as $34,000.
Charging Options
The RAV4 Prime is also easy to charge at home or on the go. You can plug it into a standard household outlet using the supplied cable and fully charge it in about 12 hours. Or you can use a level II charger and reduce the charging time to about two and a half hours. You can also find public charging stations using the Toyota app or other apps such as PlugShare or ChargePoint.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime is expected to arrive in limited quantities at Toyota dealerships starting later this year. If you're looking for a plug-in hybrid SUV that doesn't compromise performance, range, features, or value, you should check out the RAV4 Prime. It's a game-changer in its segment and a worthy addition to the Toyota family.
