The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime is the plug-in hybrid version of the best-selling RAV4, and it offers a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, versatility, and technology. With a manufacturer-estimated 42 miles of electric-only range, 302 net horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, and a spacious cabin and cargo area, the Toyota RAV4 Prime is the ultimate do-it-all SUV for any adventure.
What's New for 2024?
The RAV4 Prime is unchanged for 2024, which is reasonable considering how well it performed in its debut year. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime was one of the quickest and most efficient vehicles in the Toyota lineup, with a 0-60 mph time of just 5.5 seconds and an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined in hybrid mode. Its comfort, interior quality, and technology features also received high marks.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid SUV is available in two trim levels: SE and XSE. Both come with a generous list of standard equipment, including LED headlights and taillights, heated front seats, an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a power liftgate, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (a suite of advanced driver assistance systems). The XSE adds some sporty touches, such as 19-inch alloy wheels, a two-tone exterior paint scheme, a sunroof, paddle shifters, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 9-inch touchscreen with navigation.
How Does It Drive?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime uses an enhanced version of the RAV4 Hybrid's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, one on each axle. The result is a total system output of 302 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4 Prime can run on electricity alone for up to 42 miles (according to Toyota's estimates), which is enough to cover most daily commutes without using any gas. When the battery runs low, it can be recharged in about 12 hours using a standard household outlet or in about two and a half hours using a Level 2 charger.
The RAV4 Prime also has three driving modes: EV, HV, and Auto HV/EV. EV mode uses only battery power until it's depleted or the driver requests more power by flooring the accelerator. HV mode uses both the engine and the electric motors to optimize fuel efficiency. Auto HV/EV mode automatically switches between EV and HV modes depending on the driving conditions and battery level.
The RAV4 Prime delivers impressive acceleration and passing power thanks to its potent powertrain. It can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, which makes it one of the fastest SUVs in its class. It also handles well for its size, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. The ride quality is smooth and quiet, even on rough roads. The regenerative braking system is smooth and predictable, unlike other hybrids with grabby or inconsistent brakes.
How Spacious Is It?
The RAV4 Prime has plenty of room for five passengers and their belongings. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample headroom and legroom. The driver's seat has eight-way power adjustment and lumbar support on both trim levels. The XSE also adds ventilation to the front seats and heating to the rear outboard seats.
The rear seats are spacious enough for adults to sit comfortably, with decent headroom and legroom. The rear seats also recline and slide forward or backward to adjust the cargo space or passenger comfort. The rear doors open wide for easy access.
The cargo area is generous, with 33.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. That's slightly less than the regular RAV4 due to the battery pack under the floor, but still more than enough for most needs. The cargo area also has a low-load floor, tie-down hooks, a tonneau cover, and an underfloor storage compartment.
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What Features Does It Have?
The RAV4 Prime comes with a lot of features that make it a smart and convenient choice for modern drivers. Some of the highlights include:
- A 10-inch head-up display that projects key information onto the windshield
- A digital rearview mirror that uses a camera to provide a wider and clearer view behind the vehicle
- A wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones
- A JBL premium audio system with 11 speakers and a subwoofer
- A panoramic view monitor that provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle
- A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert that warns of vehicles approaching from behind or from the sides
- A smart key system with a push-button start and a hands-free power liftgate
- A trailer sway control system that helps stabilize the vehicle when towing
- A 3,500-pound towing capacity, which is the highest among plug-in hybrid SUVs
How Safe Is It?
The RAV4 Prime comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a comprehensive package of advanced driver assistance systems that help prevent or mitigate collisions. These include:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, which can apply the brakes if it detects a potential frontal collision with a vehicle, a pedestrian, or a cyclist
- Lane departure alert with steering assist, which can warn the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and gently steer it back
- Lane tracing assist, which can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane on highways
- Road sign assist, which can recognize and display speed limit and other road signs on the instrument panel
- Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, which can maintain a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead and slow down or stop as needed
- Automatic high beams, which can switch between high and low beams depending on the traffic conditions
The RAV4 Prime also has eight airbags, a rearview camera, an anti-lock braking system, traction and stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. It also offers some optional safety features, such as:
- Front and rear parking assist with automatic braking, which can alert the driver of obstacles and apply the brakes if necessary
- Rear cross-traffic braking, which can apply the brakes if it detects a vehicle crossing behind the RAV4 Prime when reversing
- Adaptive front-lighting system, which can adjust the direction and angle of the headlights to improve visibility around curves
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How Much Does It Cost?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid SUV starts at $44,000 for the SE trim and $48,000 for the XSE trim. These prices do not include destination charges or any applicable taxes or fees. The RAV4 Prime may also qualify for federal, state, and local incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles, depending on the location and availability.
The RAV4 Prime comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, an eight-year/100,000-mile hybrid system warranty, and a 10-year/150,000-mile battery warranty. It also comes with two years or 25,000 miles of complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance.
Is It Worth It?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a lot of value for its price. It combines the best of both worlds: an electric vehicle's efficiency and environmental benefits and the practicality and reliability of a gas-powered SUV. It also delivers strong performance, spaciousness, comfort, technology, and safety features, making it a well-rounded and versatile choice for any driver.
The RAV4 Prime is ideal for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on gas without compromising on power or capability. It's also great for those who want an SUV that can easily handle any road condition or adventure. The RAV4 Prime is one of the most impressive vehicles in its segment and the Toyota lineup.
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