3 Pros and 2 Cons of Driving the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition Daily
We’re no strangers to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, as we have tested it before. But this time, we have the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition on hand, which provides a slightly different take on the fuel-efficient SUV. Of course, everything is nearly the same as the last RAV4 Hybrid we were in, but a few slight differences. Check out these pros and cons we found when driving the RAV4 Woodland Edition daily.
Pro: The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition is somewhat outfitted for off-road driving
The main draw of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is its off-road chops. Don’t get too excited; it’s not as rough and ready as the TRD Off-Road model, but it does have the TRD-tuned springs and dampers. This modified suspension, in addition to the 18-inch bronze wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, makes the RAV4 a little better for light off-roading.
Con: This version of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid doesn’t get the best gas mileage
The main objective of driving any hybrid SUV is exceptional fuel economy. As such, most Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim levels are able to achieve up to 41 mpg in the city and 40 mpg in combined driving scenarios, according to the EPA. However, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition isn’t rated as high.
The EPA estimates on our AWD test car came out to 38 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 37 mpg combined. That’s hardly anything to sneeze at, given the RAV4’s spaciousness and capability. However, it’s worth noting that if you’re looking to get the most miles per gallon from a RAV4 Hybrid, the Woodland Edition is not the trim to choose.
Pro: The RAV4 Hybrid is comfortable for commuting and long drives
Despite the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition’s slight off-road chops, it’s comfortable to drive daily. Its ride isn’t super stiff, and its ride height is good enough for a commanding view of any road. The RAV4’s seats are also very plush and provide enough support for long drives, whether you’re sitting in heavy traffic or cruising up to the mountains like we did.
Con: The RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition doesn’t come with fancy amenities
To be clear, the new-for-2023 Woodland Edition is based on the existing RAV4 XLE trim level. That means it doesn’t come with a lot of the fancier amenities the upper trim levels have. Don’t expect to find leather upholstery, heated/ventilated seats, or a premium sound system in this rig.
Instead, the RAV4 Woodland Edition has cloth seats, a dual-zone climate system, and an 8-inch infotainment system with six speakers. The saving grace, though, is that wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is standard.
Pro: The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition has a very smooth powertrain
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s comfortable ride isn’t the only thing contributing to its smooth driving dynamics. Its hybrid powertrain, which consists of a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor, is part of the equation as well.
The switchover from the gas engine to the electric motor is seamless, and the car is quiet while idling and at lower speeds.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 has its pros and cons
Although there is plenty to love about the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition, it’s not perfect. However, it’s definitely worth checking out for anyone needing a fuel-sipping SUV that’s capable of light off-road driving.
