2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Eco-Friendly Hybrid Showdown!
Are you drawn to the Toyota RAV4 crossover SUV, but also want high-level efficiency? The RAV4 offers two efficient hybrid models: the RAV4 Hybrid, which is a traditional hybrid, and the RAV4 Prime, which features a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system with the ability to drive using electric-only power for short distances. Find out the differences between the two models in this 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid comparison.
2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: What are the differences?
In our 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid comparison, we evaluated several areas — and noted the differences. This includes performance, efficiency, towing, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, warranty coverage, reliability, and price.
RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Performance, efficiency, and towing
On the performance front, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime has the advantage. Its plug-in hybrid system produces a total system output of 308 hp, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds. In comparison, the total system output of the hybrid powertrain in the RAV4 Prime is 219 hp, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds.
The RAV4 Prime also has the advantage for efficiency. It has an estimated fuel economy of 94 combined MPGe in electric-only mode and 38 combined mpg in hybrid mode, with an electric driving range of 42 miles. In comparison, the RAV4 Hybrid has an estimated gas mileage of 40 combined mpg. Unlike the RAV4 Prime, the RAV4 Hybrid can’t drive with electric-only power.
If you need a crossover SUV that can tow, then the RAV4 Prime is the better choice for you. It has a maximum towing capacity of 2,500 pounds, compared to 1,750 pounds for the RAV4.
RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Safety
The RAV4 Prime and RAV4 Hybrid offer a similar roster of safety and driving assistance features. This includes lane-keeping assist, a blind-spot monitoring system, a backup camera, a rear parking aid, stability control, and brake assist.
RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Passenger and cargo space
Both the RAV4 Prime and RAV4 Hybrid can seat up to five people and have a total passenger volume of 98.9 cu-ft. However, the RAV4 Hybrid provides more storage space, with a maximum cargo capacity of 69.8 cu-ft, compared to 63.2 cu-ft for the RAV4 Prime.
RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Interior features and technologies
For interior features and technologies, the RAV4 Prime has the advantage. Unlike the RAV4 Hybrid, the RAV4 offers a head-up display and a power passenger seat. Both RAV4 models offer a sunroof/moonroof.
RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Warranty coverage and reliability
For warranty coverage, the RAV4 Prime and RAV4 Hybrid have the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Both RAV4 models are also very reliable, with a J.D. Power reliability rating of 81/100.
RAV4 Prime vs. RAV4 Hybrid: Price
Which Toyota RAV4 model costs more: the 2022 RAV4 Prime or the 2022 RAV4 Hybrid? The starting prices of the 2022 RAV4 Prime range from $39,800 MSRP for the SE trim to $43,125 MSRP for the XSE trim. In comparison, the starting prices of the 2022 RAV4 Hybrid range from $29,075 MSRP for the LE trim up to $37,575 MSRP for the Limited trim.
2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Which RAV4 model is better?
In our 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs. 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid comparison, advantages for the 2022 RAV4 Prime include performance, efficiency, the ability to drive using eclectic-only power, towing, and interior features and technologies. Conversely, advantages for the 2022 RAV4 Hybrid include cargo space and a lower price.
