2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Step into the future with the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime. This revolutionary plug-in hybrid boasts a seamless balance of speed and power that can be powered by electric, gas or both fuel sources for added versatility on the road. The ample amenities, high performance features and sophisticated cabin make this vehicle one to consider if you're in search of something truly special when it comes to hybrids - choices abound between two trim levels: SE & XSE.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime – The Pros

1. Saves Money on Gas

The RAV4 Prime has ushered in a new era of sustainable driving. With an estimated 94 MPGe and 42 miles of electric range, commuters can confidently get to work or run errands without worry - the SUV automatically switches from electrical to gasoline power when needed. This game-changing vehicle promises up to 40 city mpg and 36 highway mpg as well, reducing visits to the gas station for good.

2. Most Powerful RAV4 Ever Made

From a fuel-efficient 2.5 liter engine and electric motor comes the most powerful RAV4 to date - with an impressive 302 horsepower! The new Prime is sure to revolutionize driving, delivering unbeatable capability in a highly efficient package.

3. Capability is a Strength

The RAV4 Prime is designed to conquer tough terrain with an electronic on-demand all-wheel drive system for optimal power distribution across the wheels. Drivers can select 'Trail' mode when tackling offroad terrains, benefitting from 8 inches of ground clearance and a suspension ready to take on obstacles in its stride - plus up to 2,500 pounds of available towing capacity.

4. Easy to Recharge

With the development of plug-in hybrids, charging a car has become much easier than ever before. The Toyota RAV4 Prime comes with a 3.3kW onboard charger and can be plugged into any 120V or 240V outlet - taking 12 hours to get a full charge as standard but only 4.5 hours when using an upgraded version in combination with its accompanying cable at the designated station! For even faster results, upgradeable options such as 6.6 kW on board chargers offer 2 .5 hour charges when connected to public stations which have been increasingly growing in number over time for added convenience for all owners alike.

5. Room for Cargo

The RAV4 Prime has a good-sized cabin. Behind the rear seat, there is 33.5 cubic feet of storage space. Folding down the second row of seats increases cargo capacity to 69.8 cubic feet. Also remember that the rear seat is a 60/40 split bench, which means that one side can be folded down at a time if one or two rear passengers need to be accommodated.

6. A High-Tech SUV

An eight-inch touchscreen is standard on the 2021 RAV4 Prime. Thanks to Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, people can easily access certain apps, stored files, and contact information. In addition to having one USB media port, there are four USB charge ports. The XSE is enhanced with a nine-inch touchscreen and JBL speakers, and its infotainment package can be upgraded with navigation.

7. An Extra Pair of Eyes

It can be reassuring to have someone looking out for potential problems on another person's behalf. In this case, it's not someone, but something. The RAV4 Prime has multiple sensors on its exterior, giving it the ability to watch out for other vehicles or objects. It has automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, and various systems designed to keep the SUV centered in a lane. Available on the XSE trim is a 360-degree camera.

8. Staying Comfortable

In the RAV4 Prime, people will feel right at home. The dual zone automatic climate system is simple to use, and there are rear-sent vents and a dust and pollen filter. A heating element has been built into the front seats. Ventilation and rear heated seats are both options on the XSE.

9. Even the Key is Smart

This Toyota SUV has a Smart Key System. The key fob can stay in one's pocket/bag, and all it takes to unlock the doors is a touch of the door handle. Since there's push button start, the key can stay securely stored for the remainder of the trip.

10. Sleek Style

18-inch, five-spoke wheels are standard on the RAV4 Prime, and 19-inch versions are found on the XSE. There are other exterior elements that stand out, such as LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, a bold front grille, and an available two-tone color design for the exterior paint.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime – The Cons

1. Premium Features Come with a Cost

With the RAV4 Prime, customers can enjoy an array of features and advantages. However, with its SE model priced at $38,100 and XSE costing over $41,000 these incredible benefits come with a considerable financial cost - one that may seem excessive to those who seek Toyota's traditional value-oriented approach.

2. Only Two Trims

With its limited trim options, the RAV4 Prime's appeal is largely confined. One one end of the spectrum are those price-conscious shoppers who may find even SE too costly for their budget and on other side, luxury seekers might feel that XSE does not offer enough sophistication to meet their needs.

3. Towing Capacity Could Be Improved

With some SUVs capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds and the RAV4 Prime only able to manage half that amount, those who need their ride for hauling bigger loads might find its capabilities a bit limiting. The good news is that most everyday drivers won't require this function – but it pays for more ambitious motorists with frequent heavy-duty transportation requirements in mind such as boat owners or commuters depending on large cargo delivery - to consider if an upgrade could be beneficial before investing.

4. No Leather Seats

If a new vehicle costs approximately $40,000, it might be assumed that it has premium materials inside its cabin, like leather seats. Notably, the RAV4 Prime doesn't even offer leather as an option. The SE has fabric seats, and the XSE's seats are covered in SofTex, which is a synthetic material. This goes along with the sporty vibe of the RAV4, but it might not satisfy some potential customers.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

There aren't that many plug-in hybrid SUVs in the market, though this may change in the future. The Kia Niro PHEV and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV are some competitors to the RAV4 Prime.

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs 2021 Kia Niro PHEV

When it comes to eco-friendly hybrid vehicles, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime and Kia Niro PHEV may catch your eye. However, in comparison these two automobiles have distinct capabilities that truly set them apart. The prime offers a longer electric range at an estimated 39 miles as well as more storage space with up to 69 cubic feet of cargo volume - almost 20% higher than its counterpart! On top of this generous capacity is also impressive power; while the Kia musters only 139 horsepower combined, the RAV4 provides 302 hp for thrilling drives on any terrain.

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime vs 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

When it comes to electric range and performance, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is clearly in a class of its own. With an impressive one-way driving distance on pure electricity alone, commuters need not worry about running low when making their daily trips. The Niro doesn't even come close with respect to horsepower – the Prime provides twice as much power than that provided by the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for those who prefer exceptional performance capabilities from their vehicle choice. All told, there's no doubt that opting for prime will pay real dividends.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime offers drivers the perfect combination of power and efficiency. Its 302 horsepower engine gives it plenty of get-up-and-go, while its 94 MPGe impressively sips fuel. Whether you’re looking for lots of cargo space or a large array of safety features such as automated emergency braking & pedestrian detection and optional 360-degree camera – this car has it all! Not to mention two trim levels at competitive prices starting from $38,100 that offer excellent value compared with its extensive list of benefits - making the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime an ideal choice for any driver seeking performance without breaking their budget.