The Toyota RAV4 Prime and Tesla Model Y are two of the most in-demand crossover SUVs available. The Model Y features an all-electric powertrain, while the RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). With its plug-in hybrid system, the RAV4 Prime runs primarily on hybrid power, with the ability to use electric-only power for short distances. See how the two crossovers stack up in this 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y electrified crossover competition. 

2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y

For our 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y comparison, we evaluate several different factors. This includes performance, efficiency, driving range, off-road capabilities, towing, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, warranty coverage, and price.

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Performance, efficiency, and driving range

The plug-in hybrid system in the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime generates a total system output of 308 hp, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds. In comparison, the 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range trim produces 384 hp, and the Performance trim delivers 456 hp. For acceleration, the Model Y has a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds for the Performance trim and 4.8 seconds for the Long Range trim.

On the efficiency front, the RAV4 Prime has an estimated fuel economy of 94 MPGe in electric-only mode and 38 mpg in hybrid mode. In comparison, the Model Y has an estimated efficiency rating of up to 127 city/117 highway MPGe. 

For driving range, the RAV4 Prime can drive on electric-only power for an estimated 42 miles. Its total driving range is 600 miles. In comparison, the driving range of the Model Y, which is solely on electric power, is an estimated 303 miles for the Performance trim and 330 miles for the Long Range trim.

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Off-road capabilities and towing

While both crossover SUVs offer an all-wheel drive system, the RAV4 Prime is better suited for off-road use. This is because it has a considerably higher ground clearance than the Model Y (8.3 vs. 6.6 inches). However, the Model Y is the better option for towing. It has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to 2,500 pounds for the RAV4 Prime.

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Safety

The Model Y has the advantage for safety. While the Model Y earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, which is the best possible rating, the RAV4 Prime achieved the second-tier IIHS Top Safety Pick rating.

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Passenger and cargo space

The Model Y is available in either five- or seven-passenger seating configurations, while the RAV4 Prime can only seat up to five passengers. Also, the Model Y provides more space for storage. It has a maximum cargo capacity of 76.2 cu-ft, compared to 63.2 cu-ft for the RAV4 Prime.

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Interior features and technologies

Unlike the Model Y, the RAV4 Prime offers a head-up display, HD Radio, and satellite radio. However, unlike the RAV4 Prime, the Model Y offers live traffic visualization, an air filtration system, and a unique “caraoke” feature.

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Warranty coverage

The RAV4 Prime features a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. In comparison, the Model Y has a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and an 8-year/120,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, unlike the Model Y, the RAV4 Prime has a no-cost maintenance and 24/7 roadside assistance plan, with two years and 25,000 miles of coverage. 

RAV4 Prime vs. Model Y: Price

What crossover SUV costs more: the 2022 RAV4 Prime or 2022 Model Y? The starting prices of the 2022 RAV4 Prime are $39,800 for the SE trim and $43,125 for the XSE trim. In comparison, the starting prices of the 2022 Model Y are $58,990 for the Long Range trim and $63,990 for the Performance trim.

2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y: Which electrified crossover SUV is better?

In our 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y comparison, each crossover SUV has different advantages. For the 2022 RAV4 Prime, advantages include driving range, off-road capabilities, a no-cost maintenance plan, and price. Advantages for the 2022 Model Y include horsepower output, acceleration, efficiency, towing, safety, passenger and cargo space, and warranty coverage.