Best-Selling SUV Battle: Fully Loaded Toyota RAV4 vs. Fully Loaded Tesla Model Y
The Toyota RAV4 once ruled over its segment with an iron fist. It was the undisputed best-selling SUV in America for years. In 2023, a rising star is putting up serious numbers. The Tesla Model Y small electric SUV’s incredible year has allowed it to dethrone the RAV4. How do the best versions of each small SUV stack up against each other? Time for the two best-selling SUVs to battle it out in a fully loaded Toyota RAV4 vs. fully loaded Tesla Model Y competition.
How much is a fully loaded 2023 Toyota RAV4?
Toyota’s fully loaded RAV4 configuration is surprisingly affordable. It comes with plenty of great standard tech and creature comforts for the money.
| Model | 2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited (with all-wheel drive) |
| Starting MSRP | $37,980 |
| Engine | 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder |
| Power Output | 203 Horsepower, 184 LB-FT of Torque |
| MPG | 25 City, 33 Highway |
The RAV4 Limited doesn’t feature any performance upgrades. Its main appeal is its refined interior and advanced driver assistance and safety features.
2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited standard features
- Heated and ventilated front seating
- SofTex-trimmed seats
- Ambient illumination
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel
- Blind-spot monitor
The RAV4 small SUV is known for being one of the most practical and reliable vehicles in its segment. It doesn’t have exhilarating driving dynamics but provides great value as a long-term family SUV. When it comes to affordability, it’s hard to go wrong with the RAV4. Factor in its life expectancy of close to 200,000 miles, and it isn’t hard to see why Americans love the small SUV.
How fast is the 2023 Tesla Model Y Performance?
The Model Y is a completely different animal from the Toyota RAV4. It’s a small electric SUV that’s more sporty and performance-oriented than most mainstream vehicles. The Model Y has only been around for a few years, but it has made a lasting international impact that only seems to be getting stronger with time.
| Model | 2023 Tesla Model Y Performance |
| Starting MSRP | $54,490 (Before tax incentives) |
| Powertrain System | Dual Motor system |
| Power Output | 456 Horsepower, 497 LB-FT of Torque |
| Driving Range | 318 Miles |
Tesla vehicles push the boundaries of electric vehicle capabilities. The Model Y is both well-rounded and exhilarating to drive, making it the perfect SUV for many drivers.
Tesla Model Y standard features
- Leatherette seat trim
- Heated mirrors
- Parking assist
- All-wheel drive
- Driver/front passenger heated seat cushion
The 2023 Tesla Model Y Performance starts at $54,490 before taxes and additional fees. It’s eligible for the federal electric vehicle tax incentive, bringing its price closer to $46,990. The Performance trim’s distinguishing trait is its incredible acceleration. It can go from 0-60 miles per hour in about 3.5 seconds.
Fully Loaded Toyota RAV4 vs. Fully Loaded Tesla Model Y
If you’re on the fence about getting an electric vehicle, the Tesla Model Y is an easy choice for many drivers. It has become popular internationally because it has more than enough driving range for consumers with access to charging and is fun to drive. The Toyota RAV4 is a great small family SUV, but it can’t compete with the driving experience that the Tesla Model Y provides at any trim level. Tesla’s SUV is outselling the RAV4 because it has more potential to be the small family SUV of the future than Toyota’s SUV.
