The world of hybrid crossovers is, as expected, quite dull. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium is no different, but let’s be honest, there’s actually nothing wrong with that.
All trims of RAV4 received a minor update for the 2022 model year, but my as-tested XLE Premium trim is by far the volume seller. The XLE Premium adds a few niceties like 18-inch dark grey wheels, LED fog lights, a power sunroof, power tailgate, and imitation SofTex leather upholstery.
Finished in Lunar Rock, the fifth generation RAV4 is smart, sensible, and not overstyled. Now in its fifth year, it’s aging well, but shows its experience compared to the more recently redone Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson. Toyota has tried to keep it fresh with small styling tweaks and new colors. Aside from Lunar Rock, Cavalry Blue (my personal favorite), Ice Cap and Ruby Flare Pearl are also now available.
The interior is fairly basic but still a nice place to be. On one hand, you have a leather wrapped steering wheel, but next to that is a smaller infotainment screen with the cheapest looking matte plastic bezel you’ve ever seen. The seats are comfortable despite not offering very much adjustment, and the main touch points are all nice. The fully physical climate and media controls are a welcome inclusion (cough, cough, Volkswagen). As with every Toyota, the best thing, though, is that you know every part of the interior is built to outlive you.
Behind the driver, you’ll find 37.8 inches of rear legroom, which is less than you’ll find in both the CR-V and Tucson. You do have USB-C charging ports, and the seatbacks recline, which are nice touches. The bottom cushion, however, is pretty flat and mounted way too low to the floor, which makes it significantly less comfortable for taller passengers. Additionally, the rear doors open at a fairly narrow angle, which may make ingress and egress more difficult. Cargo space, at 37.5 cubic feet, is on par with the class.
On the road, the RAV4 is smooth and quiet. I don’t have any professional testing equipment, but to my ears the road noise level is similar to the Avalon premium sedan. At highway speeds, it’s composed, although there’s not a ton of passing power. That said, it doesn’t need to be fast, but a little more oomph wouldn’t go amiss. What’s impressive, though, is the fact that this almost-4,000 pound crossover can do over 40 MPG. Based on my previous experience with the Avalon and C-HR, Toyota’s products tend to be underrated in terms of fuel economy as well.
As far as pricing goes, the base MSRP of a RAV4 Hybrid is within about $1,500 of the competition, the CR-V Hybrid, Tucson Hybrid, and Escape Hybrid. All four are similar in terms of fuel economy, as well, though the RAV4 has a slight edge.
Why do you choose the RAV4 then? Toyota has been producing hybrids the longest — they know how to build one that’s smooth, refined, and reliable. Simply, it’s just… a Toyota.
| Vehicle Tested | 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium |
| Color | Lunar Rock / Black SofTex |
| Drivetrain | 2.5-liter I4 & electric motor / eCVT / All wheel drive |
| HP / Torque | 219 horsepower / 163 ft-lbs |
| Curb Weight | 3,780 lbs (est.) |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 seconds (est.) |
| EPA Fuel Econ | 41 city / 38 hwy / 40 combined |
| MSRP | $36,960 (est.) |
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