The most popular crossover in the world is about to come with big novelties for the next year. Considering that the current generation is still pretty fresh, it’s not about a facelift or something similar. Something much bigger is on the way, as we are about to see a plug-in hybrid version of this crossover for the first time. The new model is about to come with a bunch of exclusive features and it will be called 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime. On the other side, we don’t expect that the current gasoline and hybrid models will come with more important changes. We count on familiar design characteristics and features, though smaller updates in terms of standard equipment are possible.
With the new model, Toyota will significantly expand the offer for its best-selling crossover, so we may expect even bigger sales numbers in the following years. Another thing we should mention that all hybrid models will feature longer battery warranty, which will no go up to 10 years or 150.000 miles.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime will definitely be the biggest novelty for the next year. We already know most of the details about the new version. Of course, the first thing we should mention is the powertrain. The new system will use the same 2.5-liter gasoline engine, but in a pair with significantly more powerful electric motors. All in all, the max output will go all-away up to 302 horsepower, which is a number that promises some pretty spectacular performances. At this point, we still don’t know the details about the battery capacity, but the new crossover should feature a max range of 39 miles, which seems quite decent for the class.
Besides the powertrain, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid will also be characterized by other exclusive details. Of course, styling is one of the things that come to mind. The new version will come with a different grille, as well as with things like the blacked roof, unique wheels and exclusive color options. Exclusive features are expected on the inside as well.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Design
On the other side, standard models are expected to carry on in the same way. The current generation is still quite fresh for bigger updates, so we count on the same design and features. The current model has recently switched to a new TNGA architecture, which provides a much better driving experience and a higher level of comfort.
The styling will remain the same, as well as the interior design. The cabin of this crossover is characterized by a pretty good overall quality, as well as a stylish dashboard. We also like the fact that both rows are generous in terms of legroom. Finally, you may count on above-average cargo volume, which goes up to almost 70 cubic feet.
Features
Another strong point of this crossover is a generous list of standard equipment. All models come standard with things like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, a USB port, Bluetooth, voice recognition etc. In higher trims, you can also get upgrades in terms of an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, four additional USB ports, an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo, wireless device charging etc.
Things are even better in terms of safety, as all models come standard with the famous Safety Sense. This suite includes things like forward pre-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, automatic high-beam headlights etc. Additionally, you can get systems like blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, reverse automatic emergency braking, surround-view parking camera system, parking sensors etc.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Engines
Other than a new 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, things under the hood will remain the same. Therefore, you may count on two familiar engine options. Base models will carry on with a 2.5-liter engine that is good for 203 horsepower. That amount of horsepower ensures pretty decent performances, while the 8-speed automatic works pretty good. We particularly like the fact that this is one of the most fuel-efficient gasoline models in the class. You may count on about 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, which are simply amazing numbers.
If your main concern is fuel economy, then a hybrid version could be a great choice. A familiar system that is based on a four-cylinder engine is good for about 219 horsepower. Still, the strongest point of this model is fuel economy, as you can count on an impressive 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.
Release Date and Price
Considering that standard models won’t come with any particular change, we expect their arrival in late 2020. When it comes to the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid release date, it will be scheduled for the summer. Base models will go around 26.000 dollars.