Is the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition Worth the Extra Cash?
There are seven different Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim levels for 2023. That can get a little confusing for some shoppers, so let’s break down a couple of them. This week, we’re driving the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition, the new semi-outdoorsy trim for the 2023 model year. The Woodland Edition is one step above the XLE trim level, which is priced at $32,735. The new trim costs over $1,200 more than the XLE trim, but is it worth it?
What is so special about the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition?
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is essentially a TRD Off-Road lite. It has a TRD-tuned suspension setup that utilizes slightly stiffer springs and dampers, giving it a slightly higher ride height. The Woodland Edition is also outfitted with a set of bronze 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, making it great for dirt roads with a few uneven surfaces.
It even has dual exhaust tips, which is weird for a hybrid, as well as black exterior badging and mudguards. The off-road-readiness extends to the RAV4’s interior with a set of all-weather floor mats and a trunk tray.
There are no embroidered leather seats in there, though. As stated, the Woodland Edition is based on the lower XLE trim level, which includes cloth upholstery. It also doesn’t have a lot of the fancy stuff found in the higher XLE Premium or XSE model. So you won’t find a power moonroof, heated seats, or a leather-wrapped steering wheel either.
The Woodland Edition does come with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, though. We like that.
What is the Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition powered by?
Special suspension and wheels aside, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is powered by the same 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain in the other trims. This powertrain utilizes a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor. The combination pumps out 219 hp through all four wheels via a CVT.
In real-world driving, the RAV4 Hybrid’s setup is very smooth when driving around town and has plenty of pull when getting up to highway speeds. It’s worth noting, though, that the hybrid battery can run out of juice quickly during high-altitude uphill driving, but the system regenerates quickly when going downhill.
That said, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid returned an average of 38.1 mpg during our week with it. That’s not bad, considering its capability and overall comfort.
Is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition trim level worth buying?
Unless you want the all-terrain tires and slightly stiffer suspension, we think the 2023 Toyota RAV4 XLE trim level would be the better choice. The Woodland Edition is only around $1,200 more, but it’s not worth buying if you’ll never use the grippier tires.
However, if your week consists of some off-road driving or you live in a state that gets snow in the winter, the all-terrain tires could be worth the extra money. Also, we think the bronze wheels look great with the black exterior. So, it’s up to your needs and desires.
