2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Is it Worth Every Penny?

The Toyota RAV4 has been in the market since 1996 with sales going strong in most markets. With people becoming more environment conscious and hybrid powertrains getting more attention, Toyota decided to renew the RAV4 and introduce the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

Toyota RAV4 Release Date:

The RAV4 Hybrid is the eighth hybrid powered vehicle in the Toyota’s vehicle lineup which was unveiled on 31^st March, 2016 at the New York Auto Show. It is accessible in two trim levels namely XLE and Limited.

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Specs:

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid borrows its powertrain from the Lexus NX300h. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine mated to two independent electric motors for front and rear wheels, which collectively yield 194 horsepower. The 6-speed continuously variable automatic transmission delivers power to all the wheels.

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Performance:

Though the RAV4 Hybrid carries the same engine as the NX300h, but it renders better fuel economy and performance, thanks to the electric motors. It is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds and can reach a top speed of 115 mph. The hybrid powertrain allows it to achieve a combined fuel economy of 33 mpg, which is 8 mpg higher than the standard gasoline RAV4.

Comparing the RAV4 Hybrid to the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, the latter delivers 32 mpg combined fuel economy, thus making the former more efficient.

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Exterior Design:

The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid gets a new enhanced front grille, a higher hood line and stylish 17-inch wheels. The Limited grade boasts exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels for a sportier look. The wheelbase measures 104.7″ which is comparatively lower than the 2016 Ford Escape (105.9″). Other standard exterior features include halogen headlamps, DRLs and a rear spoiler.

https://youtu.be/aHRK2Cnq8y0

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Interior:

The RAV4 Hybrid is available in only midrange XLE and range-topping Limited trims and both benefit from improved interior equipment including a 4.2-inch TFT screen in gauge cluster, a 7-inch touch display, audio system with USB support, leather steering wheel and other optional facilities such as rear parking sensors, navigation system and birds-eye view monitor.

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Price:

The XLE grade starts at $28,370, while the Limited model carries a price tag of $33,610. Although the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid costs more compared to its rivals such as the Subaru Crosstrek hybrid which starts from $26,395, but the RAV4’s interior is more advanced and high-class.

Verdict:

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2016 is an expensive crossover, but it is definitely worth every penny. It packs an array of high-end equipment which comes standard such as dual-zone climate control, 6.1-inch touchscreen interface (Entune), remote power liftgate, keyless entry and halogen projector headlamps. Also, the Toyota Safety Sense System which includes forward collision warning system, forward collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning is standard on the Limited trim. These state of the art facilities make the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid an excellent choice in the hybrid crossover segment.