2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

　　

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Video Shorts

by zzdcar Test Team

　　

2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Review

byClint SimoneSenior Reviews Editor

　　Clint Simone has worked in the automotive industry since 2015. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Before joining zzdcar as a senior reviews editor, Clint contributed to Motor1.com and InsideEVs, evaluating mostly electric cars. Clint loves hot hatchbacks more than any other type of vehicle but secretly enjoys driving big trucks when he gets the chance. He would never admit to that.

　　Toyota's RAV4 is among the best-selling small SUVs on the market. The appeal is obvious: It's roomy, comfortable and supported by many shoppers loyal to the Toyota brand. So what could make this small two-row SUV even better? How about the 2023 RAV4 Hybrid? It's just as practical and enjoyable as the regular model but gets considerably better fuel economy to boot.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$96/mo  for RAV4 Hybrid LE

　　RAV4 Hybrid LE

　　LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $31,225 MSRPXLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) (Most Popular) - $32,735 MSRPSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $33,920 MSRPWoodland Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $34,025 MSRPXLE Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $35,625 MSRPXSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $36,885 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) - $39,530 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　For the 2023 model year, all RAV4 models receive a upgraded center touchscreen interface along with a digital instrument cluster. The new system has better-looking graphics, a more helpful voice command system, and the ability to receive software updates wirelessly and without a visit to a dealer. There's also a new Woodland Edition trim that joins the RAV4 Hybrid lineup. Based on the XLE trim, it features bronze-colored wheels, raised roof rails, all-terrain tires and a specially tuned suspension that Toyota says is better at absorbing bumps and ruts.

　　The two-row RAV4 Hybrid isn't the only efficient SUV in Toyota's arsenal. If you have a larger family to haul around, check out the three-row Highlander Hybrid. And for a more electrified driving experience, there is also the RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid version that has an EV driving range of about 40 miles. We also recommend checking out the redesigned Honda CR-V Hybrid and the sharply styled Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. But overall, we think the RAV4 is a smart pick for a fuel-efficient small SUV.

　　Please note that the following Expert Rating was conducted on a pre-2023 RAV4 Hybrid. We'll update the score once we test the RAV4's new touchscreen.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.8

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.0/10

　　How does the RAV4 Hybrid drive? Surprisingly swift acceleration, aided by the hybrid's electric power unit, makes the RAV4 Hybrid kind of fun to drive. There's always enough power ready for lively slingshots around traffic, and straight-line sprints are equally entertaining. Our test vehicle did 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds. That's more than a second quicker than the non-hybrid RAV4 and respectably quick for a small SUV.

　　Things are less amusing when stopping — the brakes feel mushy and devoid of much feedback — and the same can be said of the steering. Still, the XSE's sport-tuned suspension helps the hybrid stay planted and stable around turns. All RAV4 Hybrids have all-wheel drive. It's not meant for off-roading, but it will definitely help provide more traction on snowy and icy roads.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the RAV4 Hybrid? The RAV4 Hybrid can cover long and short distances in pleasant comfort. The XSE trim we tested handled rough patches and bumps with ease without feeling overly firm or harsh. The front seats are nicely sculpted and padded appropriately, but the seat bottoms begin to feel flat on longer drives. The passenger side's lack of adjustment can also make it difficult to find a comfortable position.

　　At highway speeds, the RAV4 is generally quiet. The exception is when you hit the gas for a burst of speed, at which point the engine sound gets rather coarse. The climate control system regulates temps quickly and distributes air well throughout the cabin.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below