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The Toyota RAV4 Prime is arguably the best version of Toyota’s small SUV ever made. It’s also one of the most expensive versions of the RAV4 ever made. Is the RAV4 Prime a plug-in hybrid?

Does the RAV4 Prime have a hybrid powertrain system?

The Toyota RAV4 Prime uses a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors. It has a hybrid powertrain system that makes it both more powerful and more efficient than the original RAV4. The RAV4 Prime’s hybrid powertrain allows it to produce extraordinary horsepower and torque without costing drivers big bucks at the pump.

How much horsepower does the Toyota RAV4 Prime make?

A red 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime small plug-in hybrid SUV is parked.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

The Toyota RAV4 Prime makes 302 horsepower. The gas RAV4 makes 203 horsepower. Toyota’s plug-in hybrid version makes nearly 100 more horses than the gas-powered RAV4.

The RAV4 Prime’s power output is incredible for a small SUV model. It is the quickest Toyota SUV in the automaker’s lineup. In fact, only one Toyota model is faster than the RAV4 Prime. The Supra is the only Toyota vehicle to trump the PHEV when it comes to quickness.

How quick is the RAV4 Prime?

A red 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime small plug-in hybrid SUV is driving.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

Toyota’s small plug-in hybrid SUV can go from 0-60 miles per hour in about 5.7 seconds. Not too shabby at all for a family SUV.

The PHEV is exceptionally quick because of the power boost provided by its two electric motors. Its power output contributes to an exhilarating driving experience that has been displayed at auto shows, including the New York International Auto Show. One of the reasons that the RAV4 Prime is getting so much attention is that it’s so fun to drive.

The RAV4 Prime is unique because it subverts many of the gas RAV4’s main characteristics. Instead of just being practical and affordable, the RAV4 Prime shines because it’s quick and powerful. It’s far from the typical small family SUV. The PHEV shows what Toyota is capable of using electrification.

Does the Toyota RAV4 Prime still need to be plugged in?

A red Toyota RAV4 Prime small plug-in hybrid SUV is driving on the road.
The Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

The plug-in hybrid SUV does not need to charge to run (but it does need gas). Many plug-in hybrid owners neglect to charge their vehicles entirely. That being said, the best way to get the most out of your PHEV is to charge it.

The RAV4 Prime has an 18.1 kWh 335-volt battery. The small plug-in hybrid SUV can travel for 42 miles on just electricity. It has a great electric-only driving range that owners should take advantage of.

The RAV4 Prime has a total driving range of around 600 miles thanks to its stellar fuel economy. It achieves 40 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. The SUV has a 14.5-gallon gas tank.

According to Toyota, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime starts at $42,340. It comes in two configurations: the SE and the XSE. The RAV4 Prime comes with great standard features like a smart key system, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and heated front seating. Models like the Toyota RAV4 Prime and Toyota Prius Prime are the future of Toyota plug-in hybrid technology.

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