The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Has 1 Annoying Feature

Uh oh, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has one annoying feature that could make it irritating to drive. You usually don’t hear about a Toyota being irritating, but as the RAV4 joins the impressive Toyota lineup of hybrid vehicles, it got an annoying change. 

Driving the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is irritating 

So, while reading a review about the 2021 Toyota Venza by PickupTruckTalk, it was frequently compared to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, when an annoying feature was pointed out. The PickupTruckTalk team said the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is clunky. 

A 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE driving down a road
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid in action | Photo via Toyota

And clunky isn’t a good word. In fact, the definition of clunky is awkwardly solid, heavy, and outdated. Plus, remember that cash for clunkers program a few years ago? It was trying to get people to sell their old clunkers. 

But the Toyota Venza and RAV4 Hybrid are built on the same platform, and they have the same output of power. So, what is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid considered to be clunky? According to PickupTruckTalk, the Toyota Venza has a smoother and quieter ride in comparison. 

The Toyota Venza is also a higher-end model than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It has a more luxurious cabin that may dampen more outside noise, and it could have an enhanced suspension to provide better handling on bumpy roads. 

But another thing to consider with the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the fact that it has an annoying EV sound added. All EV vehicles must now make a noise as apart of a safety mandate. More pedestrians were being hit by silent cars. But apparently, you’ll hear the clunky Toyota RAV4 Hybrid coming. 

Is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid a good SUV? 

Yes, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is an excellent SUV. It can’t be written off just because one review called it clunky compared to a luxury model. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid starts around $28,500 while the Venza begins around $32,470, so you will save about $4k with it. 

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid compact SUV on display at Brussels Expo
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 40 mpg, and PickupTruckTalk got 37 mpg in the Venza. They also admitted to driving it a little more aggressively than an average driver would. 

It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, which is sporty enough. It won’t have you sticking to your seat, but it can efficiently pass people on the highway. The sport-tuned suspension also provides stability. Plus, all-wheel drive comes standard so that you can drive through snow and other slippery conditions. 

How are the Toyota RAV4 features? 

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has plenty of space for four adults to sit and stretch out comfortably. The rear seats sit lower than the front seats, and the headspace may be limited for taller people in the front. 

A red 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid at sunset with its lights on
2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | Toyota
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Is the RAV4 Hybrid Better Than the Non-Hybrid Version?

You’ll find plenty of cargo space, too, with up to 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The loading floor is also low and convenient. The large tablet-style display has dated graphics but is easy to use with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.