In the world of hybrid SUVs, the Honda CR-V Hybrid gets a lot of attention. But don’t count the Toyota RAV4 out quite yet. While Autoblog.com says both the CR-V and RAV4 Hybrids seem to have more power than the gas models, they name the Toyota RAV4 as the “performance champ.” If that’s not enough to convince you that you need to give another long, hard look at the 2020 Toyota RAV4, Kelley Blue Book rated it their No. 1 Best Hybrid SUV of 2020.

So, we’ve established that performance is a compelling selling point. After all, what’s the point of buying an SUV if it barely has the power to get you out of the driveway, much less up an incline? Other than 219 powerful horses, what else about the RAV4 shouldn’t be ignored? Let’s take a closer look.

Driving the 2020 RAV4 Hybrid

According to KBB, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a combined fuel rating of 40 mpg. That translates to almost 600 miles on a single tank of gas, which is worth a lot considering that automobile travel has an uptick in popularity in the wake of the pandemic. There is plenty of power for acceleration when you need it, making passing vehicles on the highway a breeze. The sport-tuned suspension not only adds to the performance, but it makes it fun to drive.

The interior is roomy, upscale, and comfortable – not always givens for an SUV. It’s not just playing the part of an SUV, either. It is rated for light off-road use (Let’s be honest, you didn’t expect to climb steep mountain trails in a compact hybrid SUV, did you?). 

The exterior of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is built on an all-new platform, sharing the architecture with the Toyota Camry sedan. It has striking lines and rugged wheels, as well as a chrome grille reminiscent of its bigger truck brethren. Some trim models sport a stand-out two-tone paint scheme. 17-inch wheels are standard, but you can upgrade to 18- or 19-inch wheels, as well. 

Standard and optional features

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid comes with a long list of standard features, including all-wheel drive (standard on the XSE Hybrid trim), JBL premium audio (standard on the Limited model), a six-speaker audio system, rearview cameras, and LED head- and taillights. The standard technology features are impressive as well. The Entune 3.0 app suite with the 7-inch touchscreen gives you hands-free access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, and Bluetooth.

It’s easy to make your 2020 RAV4 your own. If you love to feel like you are outdoors, you’ll have to have the panoramic moonroof. Comfort reigns with the optional dual-zone climate control, SofTex seats, and heated and cooled front seats with memory control. Even your rear-seat passengers can get seat vents now.

If you are an audiophile, you will love the JBL 11-speaker/800-watt premium audio system. Other convenient technology add-ons include five USB ports and Qi wireless smartphone charging. You can even get a contrasting roof color. If you love driving both on and off-road frequently, you’ll want the navigation package, the dynamic torque vectoring, and a multi-terrain select system that optimizes your driving experience based on the driving surfaces.

Other options provide enhanced safety features such as automatic headlights, a digital rearview camera, an overhead 360-degree view, and push-button start. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are options that pay for themselves when you consider how many accidents they help avoid.

While you need to do your own research to decide which SUV you’d rather drive, don’t just assume that the Honda CR-V is the only hybrid you should take seriously. With a long line of standard features, an impressive menu of options, and remarkable performance, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can be the SUV you never knew you always needed.