If there’s a hybrid worth buying in 2023, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid deserves a closer look. While there are other hybrids, you should get excited about this year. But the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is catching all the critics’ attention in a big way. If you need further endorsements, even MotorTrend raves about why you should consider buying one.

The basic specs of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid saw a full redesign in 2019. So, you won’t expect many changes to this popular SUV’s overall design and engineering for 2023. But that doesn’t mean it’s still not dressed to impress. Powering this hybrid is a four-cylinder 2.5-liter engine, capable of harnessing 219 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid also comes with dual electric motors and a reliable CVT for the hybrid component. AWD comes standard, too, making this a more than capable hybrid SUV.

According to MotorTrend’s testing, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid finished its 0 to 60 sprint in just 7.1 seconds. That’s even faster than its gas-only sibling that did the same run in eight seconds. So, not only is this little hybrid capable, but it’s also rather quick on the straightaways. Believe it or not, though, there are three additional reasons MotorTrend says you’d be happy with this sweet ride.

1. More efficient than the regular RAV4

One of the key reasons MotorTrend says the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid deserves a look is efficiency and capability. The 2022 model earned EPA ratings of 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg along the highway. That’s already a significant improvement over the standard AWD version’s 25 mpg and 33 mpg. Even Edmunds praises this SUV’s fuel efficiency. And with the Woodland Edition variant as an option for this new RAV4 Hybrid, it’s efficient and a beefy little off-road capable contender.

2. Impressive standard infotainment

There are some new updates for the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. And the infotainment is another reason to love this SUV. As standard, the RAV4 Hybrid has an eight-inch infotainment screen mated with the latest version of Toyota Audio Multimedia. Bump up to higher trim levels, and your screen grows to 10.5 inches.

New this year are capabilities for voice controls and over-the-air updates. There’s also a cloud-based navigation system that includes Google’s new Points-of-Interest, dual Bluetooth device capability, available 4G WiFi hotspot, and Toyota’s Integrated Streaming feature for both Amazon and Apple music. And every RAV4 Hybrid comes ready to pair with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

3. Comprehensive driver assistance technology

Rounding out the third reason MotorTrend says you should drive a 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the suite of driver aids. For this year, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 comes with every RAV4 Hybrid, which is huge. This suite of assistance features includes all the best, like pre-collision assist with pedestrian detections and steering assist. You’ll also enjoy the adaptive cruise, lane departure warnings, and road sign assist features. And Toyota also provides blind-spot monitoring, auto braking, and a 360-degree camera.

And if safety matters, it’ll help to know that 2022’s model, which is much the same as this year’s iteration, earned the Top Safety Pick from IIHS and the overall five-star nod from the NHTSA.

If you need another reason to take a look at the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, consider these three reasons as supported by MotorTrend. It’s definitely a worthwhile contender if you’ve had a hybrid in mind. And with Toyota’s reliability and attention to detail, you won’t likely be disappointed in this SUV.