2021 Toyota RAV4 SUVs in a row by a person

Should I get the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or the Toyota RAV4 Prime?

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime 

Should you get the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or the Toyota RAV4 Prime? These SUVs are similar in many ways except for one glaring difference, which we will discuss below. Keep reading to learn about the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the Toyota RAV4 Prime with Toyota Palo Alto of Palo Alto, CA. 


2021 Toyota RAV4 SUVs in a parking lot

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime – powertrain  

Ok, let’s jump right into their differences. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is exactly what you expect of a hybrid vehicle: It uses regenerative braking to supplement power from a gas engine. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a bit different: It can be charged and drive solely on electric power for up to 42 miles. 

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime – pricing 

As you will see in the chart below, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime costs more than the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. That is because, when you factor in its ability to drive on electric power, it is considered the more efficient of the two, and it can save you money on fuel. Furthermore, it is more powerful, which translates into a larger towing capacity for you. 

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime – specifications and features 

Here we have a chart comparing the two models in depth. We tried to highlight the important parts, the ones that might inform your purchasing decision. If we’ve left something out, feel free to ask a member of our team for further information. 

 

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime 

Starting MSRP 

$28,900 

$38,350 

Estimated mpg combined 

40 mpg 

38 mpg 

Estimated MPGe rating 

N/A 

94 MPGe 

EPA  passenger volume 

98.9 cubic feet 

98.9 cubic feet 

Cargo volume 

69.8 cubic feet 

69.8 cubic feet 

Fuel tank 

14.5 gallons 

14.5 gallons 

Towing capacity 

1,750 pounds 

2,500 pounds 

Emissions rating 

SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) 

SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) 

Drivetrain 

Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) 

Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD)