The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime is not your typical plug-in hybrid vehicle. It is a versatile and spacious SUV that combines the best of both worlds: power and efficiency. With a stunning 302 horsepower, the RAV4 Prime can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest Toyota models ever. But it also delivers an impressive fuel economy of 38 mpg in hybrid mode and an electric-only range of 42 miles on a full charge. This means that the Toyota RAV4 Prime can be driven as a pure electric vehicle for short commutes or as a hybrid for longer trips without compromising performance or comfort.
A Plug-In Hybrid Version of the Popular RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 Prime is based on the fifth-generation RAV4, which was introduced in 2019 and has been a best-seller for Toyota ever since. The RAV4 Prime shares the same platform, design, and features as the regular Toyota RAV4 but with some key differences that make it stand out. The most obvious one is the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, one on each axle. The engine produces 176 horsepower, while the electric motors add another 126 horsepower to the front wheels and 54 horsepower to the rear wheels. The result is a net system output of 302 horsepower, significantly higher than the 219 horsepower of the standard RAV4 hybrid.
A Large Battery Pack with a Long Electric Range
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime also has a larger battery pack than the regular hybrid, with a capacity of 18.1 kWh. According to the EPA, this allows it to store enough energy to drive up to 42 miles on electricity alone. The battery can be recharged in about two and a half hours using a Level 2 charger or in about 12 hours using a standard household outlet. The RAV4 Prime also has a regenerative braking system that helps to replenish the battery while driving.
A Standard All-Wheel Drive System with Several Driving Modes
The Toyota RAV4 Prime comes with standard all-wheel drive, which enhances its traction and stability in different road conditions. The all-wheel-drive system is electronically controlled and can vary the torque sent to each wheel depending on the situation. The RAV4 Prime also has several driving modes to choose from, including EV mode, which uses only electric power; HV mode, which uses both gas and electric power; Auto HV/EV mode, which automatically switches between the two; and Charge mode, which uses the engine to charge the battery while driving.