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In the automotive world, Toyota has quite a strong following. The brand is known for its perceived reliability and strong retail value. But, in recent years, brands like Hyundai have seriously been stepping up the game, producing vehicles that feel lightyears ahead of what was being built in the past. If you are shopping for a plug-in hybrid SUV, both Toyota and Hyundai build a vehicle for that. And that comes in form of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV and 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime. Is it possible that the Hyundai is better?

The Santa Fe PHEV has more space than the RAV4 Prime

In terms of passenger and cargo space, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV beats out the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime. This SUV offers a total of 72.1 cubic feet of storage, while the Toyota only has 69.8 cubic feet. With the rear seat up, the Santa Cruz PHEV still has more space than the RAV4 Prime.

Cargo space is not the only place that Hyundai’s SUV excels. It also offers slightly more passenger space than the Toyota. And that might make it more ideal for things like family use, or if you find yourself giving folks rides often. 

Which plug-in hybrid SUV has better warranty coverage?

Although Consumer Reports recommends both the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV and the 2022 Toyota RAV4, the Santa Cruz has better warranty coverage. Hyundai supplies buyers with an additional year of scheduled maintenance when compared to the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Plus there is a better corrosion warranty.

A promotional shot of a red 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) side and rear
2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

The full warranty of the Santa Fe PHEV is 5 years or 60,000 miles. The RAV4 Prime only gets 3 years of warranty or 36,000 miles. So, if you are concerned about warranty coverage, you might want to opt for Hyundai’s plug-in hybrid.  

Is the Santa Cruz PHEV cheaper than the RAV4 Prime?

Today’s vehicles seem as expensive as ever, but the Hyundai SUV is slightly cheaper than the Toyota. The 2022 Hyundai Cruz PHEV has a starting cost of $40,000 whereas the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime starts at $40,300. While that is just a difference of $300, that might be a factor in which one you choose to buy. 

A 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid drives on a remote road.
Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV | Hyundai

Both vehicles can benefit from federal tax incentives, which will help to offset some of the cost of these plug-in hybrids. Now, $40,000 is not cheap for a new car. But if you want a plug-in hybrid, the Santa Cruz PHEV might be your best option. 

Should you buy a new Hyundai?

If you are interested in benefiting from a PHEV, the 2022 Santa Cruz has what you need. With its plug-in hybrid system, you will have the benefits of an electric motor paired with a traditional gas engine. With the all-electric range, you can drive 30 miles without needing to use gas. 

It is worth noting that the 2022 Santa Cruz is not currently available in every state. So, if you want one, you will need to find one that is available closest to you. Hopefully, that is something that changes soon.

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