If the RAV4 is good and the RAV4 Hybrid is great, the RAV4 Prime is excellent. Toyota's plug-in hybrid SUV is quick, efficient, and practical. It's possible Toyota will redesign the RAV4 Prime for the 2026 model year along with the rest of the RAV4 lineup, with changes including new styling, a reworked powertrain, and more technology. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Prime will compete with other compact plug-in hybrid SUVs, such as the Ford Escape and Hyundai Tucson.
Toyota's spin on the compact plug-in hybrid SUV formula is highly successful. Although the RAV4 Prime is pricier than the conventional hybrid model, we feel there's a lot of value in the extra spend. For one, the Prime is quicker off the line and boasts a more settled ride than other RAV4 models. It's also more efficient than the RAV4 Hybrid, with impressive all-electric range as an added advantage. Cargo area drops, but interior volume is on par with other compact PHEVs.
The first-ever RAV4 Prime was introduced for 2021 and received a major update for 2023, adding more technology and appeal to the Prime's package. It's likely a new model will arrive for 2026. Toyota will likely update the RAV4's styling to conform with its corporate design language used by newer SUVs like the Grand Highlander and the reintroduced Land Cruiser. Toyota could also revise the RAV4 Prime's drivetrain with more power and improved efficiency. We expect the automaker will add larger displays and more safety tech as well. Here's hoping Toyota doesn't mess with excellence and simply builds on the traits that make the RAV4 Prime great.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime was a solid performer despite being based on a humble compact SUV platform. A strong 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds comes courtesy of a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine, dual electric motors, an 18.1-kWh battery pack, and standard all-wheel drive. Total system output is rated at 302 hp, 99 hp more than the gasoline-only RAV4. The RAV4 Prime is quicker than all other Toyota models aside from the GR Supra sports car.
This performance coincides with the RAV4 Prime's excellent all-electric range of 42 miles, which is segment-leading. Combined range totals 600 miles, meaning you'll probably have to stop for a rest on a road trip before the car needs gas or a charge. The EPA rates the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime at 94 mpg-e and 38 mpg combined.
