I have a 2018 RAV4 Hybrid XLE. Mine came with lumbar support and power driver seat. I’ve owned my RAV4 for almost 3 years. From 31,000 miles when I bought it fresh off a leash til now at 56,000 miles. I’ve had zero issues. Gotten through 18 inches of packed snow. Never gotten stuck, go off roading every so often. Where winter I’ll get 33mpg-35 mpg. Where fall, spring and summer I’ll average 38-45 mpg. I once reached 49 mpg after a fuel up. All manually calculated. My father in law has a 2020 RAV4 hybrid and we match on mpg averages. However he experiences more mechanical and electrical issues because the 5th gen RAV4 was only into its second year of the refresh. Overall; I’m overall satisfied with my RAV4. And I plan on driving it til something catastrophic happens to the car.
Kudos to Alex for an excellent review. He covers an enormous range of evaluations both in performance relative to the non-hybrid RAV4 and relative to the non-Toyota competion. He is concise and clear and doesn't pull any punches. He will be my go-to auto reviewer for the foreseeable future.
I had a gasoline Rav AWD for many years in New England. 200,000 plus miles over 13 winters. I never needed the 4WD lock ever. I’d pull out of my uphill driveway in 20 inches of fresh snow to go snowboarding, and absolutely did not need that 4 WD lock. I experimented with it, couldn’t find a use for it. So, IMHO, it’s no loss if this vehicle lacks such a feature. Very helpful review, thanks.
Thank you Alex for enlightening us that the "CVT" in a Toyota Hybrid is unique from all other CVTs. From what I have learned from all other automotive reviewers(on and off UA-cam or magazines) out there, those idiots still think it has a conventional CVT. You are indeed the best reviewer. I will keep watching your channel from now on!
Ford C Max Hybrid CVT is very much like the Toyota CVT. Its called a HF35 transmission made in Warren Michigan by Van Dyke Transmissions. Its a good unit with no belt in it has electric drive motors and a planetary gear set. Weber Auto shows how it is constructed and how it works.
For under $30k, hard to beat a Toyota Rav4 XLE Hybrid AWD in pure value: Huge back seat and trunk, AWD, Almost 200 HP, Over 30 MPG all the time, 2 years of roadside assistance, typical Toyota high quality and resale value, Pretty good-looking vehicle. When the average new car costs over $33k, this have a lot going for it, and few real weaknesses.
Bitcoin Video University Right except for the back seat. You must be very young and have never seen a spacious back seat. The RAV4's back seat is not bad, but it's too close to the floor and therefore not all that comfortable for a tall person on a long ride.
I just bought one for my wife. Have had Civics whole life and drive them to 200K+. Drove 200 miles so far and am averaging 39-41 according to the trip computer. Yes I am driving like a hybrid but crazy that it gets as good mileage as my MUCH smaller civic!
Comparable to the NX300h with i-AWD for only $16,000.00 dollars more. I'm happy with my very basic 2016 RAV4 Hybrid i-AWD XLE! I traded my 2006 Prius, with over 170.000 miles, for one. I couldn't be any happier!
i just bought one last week and after watching this video, im so glad i got it now because sometimes I wish i had a true awd like the gas powered rav4. But now im very excited to keep this vehicle for at least 8 plus years.
Owned this car since it's out in 2016, I can verify it's very durable and reliable, with no battery/transmission issue whatsoever. Another fun fact is that the instant torque of the electric motor, when in sport mode it is quite fun to drive, very useful in the city road to perform a quick pass/start.
I'm interested in this car and you cover ALL the bases. Rather than just spew the marketing sheet, I love how you can compare the features and performance with the competition. Thank you!
I live in Colorado (the west slope and not in big city) I drive a 2017 Toyota Rav4 hybrid (silver) for work we bought these vehicles for our work because we needed car like mpg's with AWD to go over mountain passes we have several of our satellite offices which are located over 10000 feet + so roads can be tricky especially in winter I currently have 22000 miles on this vehicle WOW!!!!! I am used to driving larger trucks and SUVs like Tahoe's or older Trailblazer but I can tell you this---- this little SUV doesn't feel little it is very comfy and nice to drive - even on 300 mile long treks the hybrid is AMAZING quiet but fast and responsive I have been getting real world MPG of - 32 to about 34.6 depending on how I drive worse I got was going over I70 at 75mph w AC on - this was 31.8 best I got was pushing 35 these cars are just AMAZING do not sell it short - it is fast / comfy and very well laid out hybrid goes way faster and seems more fun than gas model and even around here (where start elevation is 5000 feet) and we go over 11000 at some points this car moves and goes I will so buy one of these for my next personal vehicle and I cant wait for the new 2019 model which is said to have even 25 more horsepower and will get near 41mpg! holy cow that is so cool thank you Toyota and keep it up --- the Tacoma will need one of these soon!
Hi Duane, what can you say about this car now? I am trying to buy used, about 80 000 miles on it. Does it have any problems because of age or does it work almost the same? thank you in advance
Hi Alex, long time fan of your videos, just want to say thanks for being the most informative and professional auto reviewer on youtube (or anywhere for that matter.) This video reaffirmed what we liked about toyota hybrid in our trouble-free prius, and made our decision to pick up the RAV4 hybrid an easy choice. I would like to comment on a few observations I have found on our limited trim RAV4 hybrid: 1) Even limited trim doesn't have all around auto down/up window switches, only on driver side. 2) The center top vent opening is actually half of what it would seems, the right side is blocked off (fake.) 3) No CD player if you select the JBL nav head unit. 4) Toyota entune does not support UTF8, meaning no foreign characters in mp3 tags
I don't find any issues with the suspension. Absolutely no issues driving through the New England winter. 0-60 in just below 7 seconds in mine. My weight is 164 #. Handling limitations is because of the tires, not the suspension. Breaks were hard in the beginning but now they are normal after 15k service.
I appreciate that note at the end about inclement weather handling. One of the reasons I'm considering the RAV4 Hybrid for my next car vs. a sedan is the awful road maintenance during the snowstorms that hit Portlandia this winter. Although my 2007 Camry with chains handled the snow like a tank, the RAV4 Hybrid with snow tires would be virtually unstoppable (and with chains, even moreso).
There are already a few RAV4 Hybrid taxis in NYC. Rode in one a few weeks ago and thought it was great. Tons of room in the back, looked good, obviously high quality and the HSD system is still very cool. Huge upgrade over the Escape Hybrid cabs that are still pretty common.
I thing you are the only one who is doing a REAL REVIEW of a car. I wound to bay a toyota rav4 hybrid and now I now all most everything. Very good job.... Keep going....Angel Meremetis from Greece...
Very good review. Awd most needed in low traction. Rav4 rear electric motor is abundantly sufficient for getting out of parking spot in snow covered lot. "Full Lock" only helps for rock hopping, which, Rav4 not targeting.
Thank you for the great review Alex! You just made my decision a little easier. I have narrow it down to three, NX, RAV4, and Crosstrek hybrid! Just need to scheduled some test driving!
Alex, incredibly detailed review. I found the info about the difference between Hybrid and non-Hybrid All-Wheel drive fascinating and not something I've heard before. I've read some reviews, too. You ended up saying that it shouldn't make that much difference in the end which was reassuring. Living in Wisconsin, all-wheel drive and traction can be very important. Also, the info on the acceleration was VERY helpful to me as that was one of my major concerns. I have 2015 Camry XLE V-6 with 0-60 of 5.8 seconds so I didn't know if I could find this satisfactory. I think I could, but will be taking test drive tomorrow I believe. Once again many thanks. I'm no expert on vehicle reviews, but this was probably the best I've seen & heard.
I trade my vehicles in yearly. I'm not brand loyal to any model, if I like what I see I always check Alex on autos for his reviews and opinions. He's top notch!
I love this car and the fact that it has so much non-animal leather inside, giving it a high quality interior while being great for animal lovers! The Softex is more environmentally friendly than animal-skin leather. I love getting the benefits of an SUV without wasting lots of gas.
I have one and I am very happy with it, not so good suspention bothers me a bit but I do ride on 18" wheels, maybe switch for 17" would improve but as Alex, I think that biggest reason lies in stiff suspention..
Hey Alex, really enjoying your reviews. They are answering a ton of questions I have about the various vehicles. FYI: I can’t find this video in your Electric & Hybrid sub-channel, and it seems like it should be there.
Great review Alex! You always give a ton of facts and useful information - very impressive. I have owned this car (Hybrid XLE) for 2 months and really like it.
If there is one thing that my parents constantly nag about, it's our Mitsubishi Outlander's MPG. Probably because they brought the car when gas didn't cost that much, but even today ~16MPG combined is nothing to laugh about, considering it isn't even particularly powerful or large. This car is something I can tell them to take a look at, even if my father isn't all that big fan of Toyota. Thanks for another great video Alex.
***** That's why the Outlander in Europe & Japan can only be had with 4cyls. The V6 was made specifically for the American market, but it was rated for 17 city 21 hwy, which I call BS. My father has a lead foot, but even if I try my best I can only eke out ~18MPG on a good day. In contrast to mother's Mercedes which advertises 20 city 27 hwy, I can feather the throttle up to 30MPG on a sunny day.
Update for folks considering a used 2016-2018 RAV4 Hybrid. I am the secondowner of a 2017 RAV4 Hybrid XLE. 32,000 miles on it. No issues other than having to replace the 12V battery (it is a sealed battery and expensive). For three years I had the back seat out and used it as a cargo van to carry larger stuff than the stock system can hold due to the hybrid battery and rear seat design, The Bridgestone tires it came with were very noisy so now I have quiet Michelin tires. I am not impressed with the gas mileage. At the best of times it gets about 34 mpg, but on long freeway trips where I average about 70 mph the mileage is barely 30. Well at 4000+ pounds and not a great aero shape I'm not surprised. It will go about 1/2 mile on EV only if you stay under 20 mph and barely accelerate. My next car will be a PHEV that goes at least 40 miles on electric and has a flat cargo floor. I do recommend this era RAV4 if you mostly plan to use it for passengers and mostly use it at speeds less than 70. Alex really skipped over how useless the cargo space is in the hybrid model due to how the seat folds thanks to the hybrid battery.
I want this car so bad! I'm currently driving a 2011 rav4 and while the interior is straightforward, I like this upper scale look, plus I average 21 and I think 30 mpg would be way better lol
Hi, what can you say about this car now? I am trying to buy used, about 80 000 miles on it. Does it have any problems because of age or does it work almost the same? thank you in advance
I love my 2018 limited hybrid it's already saved my life twice, and with that being said I can burn rubber with the extra horsepower 😂 I also enjoy my 42-56 mpg in Alaska.
@@ethanmckibbin Thanks for reply! How does it behave in that weather? I guess that it starts the engine almost immediately when you enter the car, because batteries got recharged?
I build these engines on both the rav 4 and the hybrid and I can most defiantly guarantee there is more ravs then hybrids built within the year so I'm going to guess the normal rav is better? great review
Very well put together videos. There is a to of coverage over a vast range of models. We are considering Mercedes GLA or Toyota RAV4. We love the safety and build of the Merc, coming from the E350, but the RAV has a lot of space and not that much cheaper...
Great Review Alex. I have a question for you. How many miles was the crusing range? How many gallons does it take to fill up? I really want a hybrid and a small CUV so this just might be my next vehicle.
Does the horsepower increase in the Hybrid translate into increased highway speed and passing ability, ie. over the regular model? Or does it only help at lower (0-60) speeds?
Excellent review Alex. I was leaning towards the SE model. After watching your review, I'm thinking to go for the XLE Hybrid. Here in Ontario both are priced the same. What do you think?
I bought the SE model in April and am very happy with it. In retrospect, I might have bought the hybrid. Gave it lots of thought but chose the SE model............looks fantastic in white too!
Hello all. I own RAV4 since 2008. I drove two V6 (XA-30. 2008, 2012). I am from Canada, Manitoba. We do have harsh winters. Those vehicles were just average SUVs. What made them attractive is this magic V6. I just liked it's hotroad-like accelerations. Then Toyota came out with XA-40. Which was slow and ... not nice. I intended to go somewhere else for my next SUV when they came back with the Hybrid. The facelift erased some of the ugly lines. And the outstanding fuel economy combined with better performance actually allowed me to stay with Toyota. Nowadays I enjoy the economy. I enjoy the low noise levels and very smooth ride. BUT... this car doesn't feel stronger than the gasoline. I got friend who followed me and purchased the RAV4 Hybrid. We don't get this 7.5 sec for 0-60. Neither of us. Maybe this is because it is still less than 5000 km on odometer. Have no idea. But the bottom line - it doesn't feel stronger. And BTW we were able to go as low as 6.0 L/100 km within the city limits. It wasn't some one-time event. There are some routes that we can reproduce this number consistently. About the rest - we like the quality of assembly. We don't like those buttons hidden on the central console. Have no idea why it wasn't banned on production?
Make sure it is not in "eco" mode. That will significantly reduce the performance. Also not sure if the RAV4 hybrid has a "sport" mode like my Lexus ES 300h. If it does, then it sharpens the performance dramatically! (the difference is day and night)
Hi Alex, since you mentioned the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, I understand the mild hybrid system only improves the mpg over the regular Crosstrek just slightly, but what about performance?
Thanks for fine review Alex. Looks like the gas engine is used merely as a generator, while the vehicle is propelled by electrical motors making good use of their main advantage: neither power nor torque depend on rpms, eliminating thus the need of gearbox. Are there other vehicles on market using similar solution? Electrical motors for the purpose should be small and lightweight (ideally each wheel should have its own unit) - are their construction details a commercial secret?
Hello Alex, i watched all your Hybrid Reviews. Now the new Kia Niro Hybrid comes out in Europe, also a Crossover. Can you Test it ? I really like to hear your opinion. I think this Car with 7 Year warrenty is a Win.
Alex, what do you think Toyota will do to change/update the Hybrid RAV4 for 2018? I'm torn between just getting the 2017 or waiting a few months for the 2018.
Hello Alex, excellent video. I'm looking at getting the 2017 Limited Hybrid. I was wondering though, what's your thought on Toyota's extended warranty? Is that something worth getting these days? I'm upgrading from an 01 Rav4.
erm, in the regular Rav4 vid u said it had 70dB, which is lower than this hybrid one w/ 71---vs here u said the hybrid was quieter than the regular? I wonder what the dB truly was in the regular car??
Alex, these hybrids typically are warranted to 100,000 miles. The very ordinary gas model will complete 250,000 miles without having to replace the primary motor..
Alex, car testers do not have to pay for repairs after the short 3 year warrant in done. The extra electric motors complexity will add cost to any repairs or part failure as we have all discovered when repair bills come in for anything electric. Also, Alex, the hybrids as the range starts to "close in " on the warrant, dealers are very cheep on resale offered as "used hybrid" is very worrisome for the next owner. Toyota gas model is good for 250,000 miles on "average", but differently not the hybrid battery.
Harry, read here for dependability of Toyota hybrid systems..www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2011/02/the-200-000-mile-question-how-does-the-toyota-prius-hold-up/index.htm
the XLE and Limited Hybrids don't have any rated towing capacity (at least in canada) as of March 2017, but there is a (new?) LE+ Hybrid model that's rated for 1750lbs, you lose some of the premium things like heated steering wheel, and the cinnamon two tone finish, but again, it appears to be the only hybrid option if you need towing
If Toyota offered the Hybrid setup in LE trim Toyota couldn't make them fast enough. I agree the LE or Limited gas only are pointless to consider. Wasn't aware of the spare tire. I would offer a spare tire delete, pre-wired, and offer a dealer installed 2nd battery. If you don't like the ride get a set of Goodyear Assurance Comfotred Touring. I'm leasing a '15 LE 2WD and yes it ride like a brick on Michelin's. Getting around 26MPG with a K&N drop in air filter.
+Ivan Vojt Agree on wishing they offered the Hybrid in LE trim. If I buy a hybrid it's because I'm trying to save money in the long run (I drive many miles). I still consider the hybrid version an extra $4020 over the gas model rather than the often touted $700 considering all I really need is a LE trim and AWD of the hybrid version is of no comparison to AWD in the gas only models.
+Ivan Vojt I can assure you that a spare tire delete is NOT something you want. Those sealant cans sold at Pep boys or Autozone just makes it much more expensive to replace a flat & if you're complaining about the Michelin Latitude Tour HP, you'll hate RFTs even more than I do.
+Trades46 Check out AmerSeal, amazing stuff. All of the Wallymart, AutoBone, PepBoyz goo in a can is all garbage. RFT's are garbage, expensive, heavy, less of a chance of patching. Check out AmerSeal.
Ivan Vojt If FWD is fine, I would just skip the Rav4 altogether and go for the Camry LE Hybrid. Save yourself $5k and you really don't give up all that much space vs. the Rav4 (Camrys are HUGE vs. their predecessors these days). You also get a better driving car to boot. Unlike the rest of North America, I never brought into the SUV hype.
I have a 2018 RAV4 Hybrid XLE. Mine came with lumbar support and power driver seat. I’ve owned my RAV4 for almost 3 years. From 31,000 miles when I bought it fresh off a leash til now at 56,000 miles. I’ve had zero issues. Gotten through 18 inches of packed snow. Never gotten stuck, go off roading every so often. Where winter I’ll get 33mpg-35 mpg. Where fall, spring and summer I’ll average 38-45 mpg. I once reached 49 mpg after a fuel up. All manually calculated. My father in law has a 2020 RAV4 hybrid and we match on mpg averages. However he experiences more mechanical and electrical issues because the 5th gen RAV4 was only into its second year of the refresh. Overall; I’m overall satisfied with my RAV4. And I plan on driving it til something catastrophic happens to the car.
Kudos to Alex for an excellent review. He covers an enormous range of evaluations both in performance relative to the non-hybrid RAV4 and relative to the non-Toyota competion. He is concise and clear and doesn't pull any punches. He will be my go-to auto reviewer for the foreseeable future.
I had a gasoline Rav AWD for many years in New England. 200,000 plus miles over 13 winters. I never needed the 4WD lock ever. I’d pull out of my uphill driveway in 20 inches of fresh snow to go snowboarding, and absolutely did not need that 4 WD lock. I experimented with it, couldn’t find a use for it. So, IMHO, it’s no loss if this vehicle lacks such a feature.
Very helpful review, thanks.
Thank you Alex for enlightening us that the "CVT" in a Toyota Hybrid is unique from all other CVTs. From what I have learned from all other automotive reviewers(on and off UA-cam or magazines) out there, those idiots still think it has a conventional CVT. You are indeed the best reviewer. I will keep watching your channel from now on!
+Dominic Fong it is important to know E-CVT on Toyota/Lexus Hybrid system is different from the others.
@@you787874 Would PCS still work if your foot is on the gas peddle?
Ford C Max Hybrid CVT is very much like the Toyota CVT. Its called a HF35 transmission made in Warren Michigan by Van Dyke Transmissions. Its a good unit with no belt in it has electric drive motors and a planetary gear set. Weber Auto shows how it is constructed and how it works.
Best reviewer in the business. Very in-depth and explains all features so clearly. Anytime I am shopping for vehicle I always look for Alex on UA-cam.
I really appreciate the ending where you spoke about AWD, snow & winter tires.
Hi Alex. Excellent job. Your reviews are so professionally made! The best of UA-cam for car reviews by far.
I despise when Americans compare 5 seaters to 7 seaters, otherwise well put together content
your reviews are the best especially for people who are looking to buy a car... after watching toyota avalon review I got one for my wife.
For under $30k, hard to beat a Toyota Rav4 XLE Hybrid AWD in pure value: Huge back seat and trunk, AWD, Almost 200 HP, Over 30 MPG all the time, 2 years of roadside assistance, typical Toyota high quality and resale value, Pretty good-looking vehicle. When the average new car costs over $33k, this have a lot going for it, and few real weaknesses.
Bitcoin Video University Got a 2016 RAV4 XLE Hybrid for $25,500 plus tax and fees! Can't beat value!!!
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Right except for the back seat. You must be very young and have never seen a spacious back seat. The RAV4's back seat is not bad, but it's too close to the floor and therefore not all that comfortable for a tall person on a long ride.
It is 50000 can
I just bought one for my wife. Have had Civics whole life and drive them to 200K+. Drove 200 miles so far and am averaging 39-41 according to the trip computer. Yes I am driving like a hybrid but crazy that it gets as good mileage as my MUCH smaller civic!
Comparable to the NX300h with i-AWD for only $16,000.00 dollars more. I'm happy with my very basic 2016 RAV4 Hybrid i-AWD XLE! I traded my 2006 Prius, with over 170.000 miles, for one. I couldn't be any happier!
does the it have an ev charger???
i just bought one last week and after watching this video, im so glad i got it now because sometimes I wish i had a true awd like the gas powered rav4. But now im very excited to keep this vehicle for at least 8 plus years.
How are you liking it and how is it holding up? Thinking about buying one within the next couple days
Do you still have it 3 years later? how is the vehicle doing?
You have the best reviews going Alex! Keep up the great work. I just purchased a 2018 RAV4 hybrid based on this review. Thank you
Owned this car since it's out in 2016, I can verify it's very durable and reliable, with no battery/transmission issue whatsoever.
Another fun fact is that the instant torque of the electric motor, when in sport mode it is quite fun to drive, very useful in the city road to perform a quick pass/start.
That's very good for a suv I just want to make sure if there is something to look out you said any issues at all?
Sport mode is way too fun
Do you still have it?
Hey man do you still have the rav4?
@@hedgehogthesonic3181 yes
I'm interested in this car and you cover ALL the bases. Rather than just spew the marketing sheet, I love how you can compare the features and performance with the competition. Thank you!
I live in Colorado (the west slope and not in big city)
I drive a 2017 Toyota Rav4 hybrid (silver) for work
we bought these vehicles for our work because we needed car like mpg's with AWD to go over mountain passes
we have several of our satellite offices which are located over 10000 feet + so roads can be tricky especially in winter
I currently have 22000 miles on this vehicle
WOW!!!!!
I am used to driving larger trucks and SUVs like Tahoe's or older Trailblazer
but I can tell you this----
this little SUV doesn't feel little
it is very comfy and nice to drive - even on 300 mile long treks
the hybrid is AMAZING
quiet but fast and responsive
I have been getting real world MPG of - 32 to about 34.6 depending on how I drive
worse I got was going over I70 at 75mph w AC on - this was 31.8
best I got was pushing 35
these cars are just AMAZING
do not sell it short - it is fast / comfy and very well laid out
hybrid goes way faster and seems more fun than gas model and even around here (where start elevation is 5000 feet) and we go over 11000 at some points
this car moves and goes
I will so buy one of these for my next personal vehicle and I cant wait for the new 2019 model which is said to have even 25 more horsepower and will get near 41mpg!
holy cow that is so cool
thank you Toyota and keep it up --- the Tacoma will need one of these soon!
Hi Duane, what can you say about this car now? I am trying to buy used, about 80 000 miles on it. Does it have any problems because of age or does it work almost the same? thank you in advance
Hi Alex, long time fan of your videos, just want to say thanks for being the most informative and professional auto reviewer on youtube (or anywhere for that matter.) This video reaffirmed what we liked about toyota hybrid in our trouble-free prius, and made our decision to pick up the RAV4 hybrid an easy choice.
I would like to comment on a few observations I have found on our limited trim RAV4 hybrid:
1) Even limited trim doesn't have all around auto down/up window switches, only on driver side.
2) The center top vent opening is actually half of what it would seems, the right side is blocked off (fake.)
3) No CD player if you select the JBL nav head unit.
4) Toyota entune does not support UTF8, meaning no foreign characters in mp3 tags
How does the AC have any effect? there are already no vents in the back from what I hear
Most informative goes to SavageGeese.
I've never seen Alex illustrate the underbody of any vehicle on a lift.
Thanks for this great detailed review! We purchased a RAV4 Hybrid thanks to your video and love it!
I’ve been driving a Toyota since 1986, never a worry, thanks for this as I’ve just ordered one!
Thank you Alex for doing this review. I especially appreciate the slight comparison to the Lexus NX I requested. You are the best!
A terrific review, as always. Great content, efficiently stated with superb photography.
I don't find any issues with the suspension. Absolutely no issues driving through the New England winter. 0-60 in just below 7 seconds in mine. My weight is 164 #. Handling limitations is because of the tires, not the suspension. Breaks were hard in the beginning but now they are normal after 15k service.
15k service?
I appreciate that note at the end about inclement weather handling. One of the reasons I'm considering the RAV4 Hybrid for my next car vs. a sedan is the awful road maintenance during the snowstorms that hit Portlandia this winter. Although my 2007 Camry with chains handled the snow like a tank, the RAV4 Hybrid with snow tires would be virtually unstoppable (and with chains, even moreso).
There are already a few RAV4 Hybrid taxis in NYC. Rode in one a few weeks ago and thought it was great. Tons of room in the back, looked good, obviously high quality and the HSD system is still very cool. Huge upgrade over the Escape Hybrid cabs that are still pretty common.
I thing you are the only one who is doing a REAL REVIEW of a car. I wound to bay a toyota rav4 hybrid and now I now all most everything. Very good job.... Keep going....Angel Meremetis from Greece...
Very good review.
Awd most needed in low traction. Rav4 rear electric motor is abundantly sufficient for getting out of parking spot in snow covered lot. "Full Lock" only helps for rock hopping, which, Rav4 not targeting.
Wow - I wish I could take this guy car shopping with me!
Thanks for your reviews - the best out there by a long margin!
Excellent review I just bought a is a 2017 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. 😉☺💖
Wow, what a great spot on review. I've owned that identical vehicle for 4 years and I can't spot anything incorrect.
I talked to Taxi driver, he was getting 5.9L per 100kms in the city. Remarkable
I'm 7 years late!! But I still afford one Alex.
Thank you for the great review Alex! You just made my decision a little easier. I have narrow it down to three, NX, RAV4, and Crosstrek hybrid! Just need to scheduled some test driving!
Alex, incredibly detailed review. I found the info about the difference between Hybrid and non-Hybrid All-Wheel drive fascinating and not something I've heard before. I've read some reviews, too. You ended up saying that it shouldn't make that much difference in the end which was reassuring. Living in Wisconsin, all-wheel drive and traction can be very important. Also, the info on the acceleration was VERY helpful to me as that was one of my major concerns. I have 2015 Camry XLE V-6 with 0-60 of 5.8 seconds so I didn't know if I could find this satisfactory. I think I could, but will be taking test drive tomorrow I believe. Once again many thanks. I'm no expert on vehicle reviews, but this was probably the best I've seen & heard.
I trade my vehicles in yearly. I'm not brand loyal to any model, if I like what I see I always check Alex on autos for his reviews and opinions. He's top notch!
The best reviews by far!
Great explanation of the hybrid AWD function. Snowing like crazy in England today. Wish me luck!
I love this car and the fact that it has so much non-animal leather inside, giving it a high quality interior while being great for animal lovers! The Softex is more environmentally friendly than animal-skin leather. I love getting the benefits of an SUV without wasting lots of gas.
The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid is the Absolute way to go in this segment
I have one and I am very happy with it, not so good suspention bothers me a bit but I do ride on 18" wheels, maybe switch for 17" would improve but as Alex, I think that biggest reason lies in stiff suspention..
Hey Alex, really enjoying your reviews. They are answering a ton of questions I have about the various vehicles.
FYI: I can’t find this video in your Electric & Hybrid sub-channel, and it seems like it should be there.
Thanks for the review, been waiting for this review. Fantastic review as always. Thank you.
Great review Alex! You always give a ton of facts and useful information - very impressive. I have owned this car (Hybrid XLE) for 2 months and really like it.
Always enjoy your detailed reviews.
If there is one thing that my parents constantly nag about, it's our Mitsubishi Outlander's MPG. Probably because they brought the car when gas didn't cost that much, but even today ~16MPG combined is nothing to laugh about, considering it isn't even particularly powerful or large.
This car is something I can tell them to take a look at, even if my father isn't all that big fan of Toyota. Thanks for another great video Alex.
*****
That's why the Outlander in Europe & Japan can only be had with 4cyls. The V6 was made specifically for the American market, but it was rated for 17 city 21 hwy, which I call BS.
My father has a lead foot, but even if I try my best I can only eke out ~18MPG on a good day. In contrast to mother's Mercedes which advertises 20 city 27 hwy, I can feather the throttle up to 30MPG on a sunny day.
I've never scene a better review.
Alex your reviews are great.
Update for folks considering a used 2016-2018 RAV4 Hybrid. I am the secondowner of a 2017 RAV4 Hybrid XLE. 32,000 miles on it. No issues other than having to replace the 12V battery (it is a sealed battery and expensive). For three years I had the back seat out and used it as a cargo van to carry larger stuff than the stock system can hold due to the hybrid battery and rear seat design, The Bridgestone tires it came with were very noisy so now I have quiet Michelin tires. I am not impressed with the gas mileage. At the best of times it gets about 34 mpg, but on long freeway trips where I average about 70 mph the mileage is barely 30. Well at 4000+ pounds and not a great aero shape I'm not surprised. It will go about 1/2 mile on EV only if you stay under 20 mph and barely accelerate. My next car will be a PHEV that goes at least 40 miles on electric and has a flat cargo floor. I do recommend this era RAV4 if you mostly plan to use it for passengers and mostly use it at speeds less than 70. Alex really skipped over how useless the cargo space is in the hybrid model due to how the seat folds thanks to the hybrid battery.
thanks very useful
I want this car so bad!
I'm currently driving a 2011 rav4 and while the interior is straightforward, I like this upper scale look, plus I average 21 and I think 30 mpg would be way better lol
Thank you for another thoughtful and thorough review.
Hello Alex, I am a fan. I'd like you to do a review on the 428i Gran Coupe. Your knowledge and impartiality is great. Thank you!
This video was a HUGE help thank you
Thanks, Very Helpful. i'll be getting the Rav4 Hybrid for my next car
I really appreciate your reviews. Thank you.
Great review and great car.
Really helpful, thanks, I JUST BOUGHT IT 33K DOOR OUT
Hi, what can you say about this car now? I am trying to buy used, about 80 000 miles on it. Does it have any problems because of age or does it work almost the same? thank you in advance
I love my 2018 limited hybrid it's already saved my life twice, and with that being said I can burn rubber with the extra horsepower 😂 I also enjoy my 42-56 mpg in Alaska.
How do you achieve this mpg in the cold weather? Actually how does it behave when it\s below zero outside?
@@ivandimov9712 it's not always below zero, coldest it got last year was -14, this year 20 is the coldest
@@ethanmckibbin Thanks for reply! How does it behave in that weather? I guess that it starts the engine almost immediately when you enter the car, because batteries got recharged?
@@ivandimov9712 batteries stay charged from the last drive, it's like a baby Highlander. Much better than a 2019.
Creative Dragon I don’t like the 2019 either :) Thanks for the details!
Well the gas is not cheap anymore, im looking to buy a used rav4 hybrid
Thank you for an excellent review!
How is he spittin' straight carFACTS while driving and filming? Coffee. Coffee is the answer.
During the winter here where temp drops down to -20F, I'm averaging 19mpg. Keep in mind I also warm up my car for 15-20 mins before driving.
why so long. All you need is probably 5 minutes and driving will do the rest.
I build these engines on both the rav 4 and the hybrid and I can most defiantly guarantee there is more ravs then hybrids built within the year
so I'm going to guess the normal rav is better?
great review
I love all your videos, but want to know if you are going to review the Subaru Outback?
How can a hybrid be more reliable than a gas? BECAUSE IT'S TOYOTA. Best answer ever.
Excellent job, thanks,.
Awesome review as always.
So Alex, I have a question for you.
What do you personally prefer; the RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, or RAV4 EV?
Wow, great review
Great video👏
How does the AWD system in the RAV4 compare to the Subaru Forrester with X-Mode?
Great review
Very well put together videos. There is a to of coverage over a vast range of models. We are considering Mercedes GLA or Toyota RAV4. We love the safety and build of the Merc, coming from the E350, but the RAV has a lot of space and not that much cheaper...
Hoping you can do a crosstrek hybrid review!
I hope Toyota puts this drivetrain into the 2017 CT200h and awd as icing on top!
Good Video ! Thanks !
Great Review Alex. I have a question for you. How many miles was the crusing range? How many gallons does it take to fill up? I really want a hybrid and a small CUV so this just might be my next vehicle.
Hey Alex, I was wondering if you could do a review of the recently refreshed 2017 Ford Escape; that would be great. Thanks!
Does the horsepower increase in the Hybrid translate into increased
highway speed and passing ability, ie. over the regular model? Or does it only help at lower (0-60) speeds?
Looks good. Should I get this or a Ford explorer (both 2016)
Excellent review Alex. I was leaning towards the SE model. After watching your review, I'm thinking to go for the XLE Hybrid. Here in Ontario both are priced the same. What do you think?
I bought the SE model in April and am very happy with it. In retrospect, I might have bought the hybrid. Gave it lots of thought but chose the SE model............looks fantastic in white too!
Hello all. I own RAV4 since 2008. I drove two V6 (XA-30. 2008, 2012). I am from Canada, Manitoba. We do have harsh winters. Those vehicles were just average SUVs. What made them attractive is this magic V6. I just liked it's hotroad-like accelerations.
Then Toyota came out with XA-40. Which was slow and ... not nice. I intended to go somewhere else for my next SUV when they came back with the Hybrid. The facelift erased some of the ugly lines. And the outstanding fuel economy combined with better performance actually allowed me to stay with Toyota. Nowadays I enjoy the economy. I enjoy the low noise levels and very smooth ride. BUT... this car doesn't feel stronger than the gasoline. I got friend who followed me and purchased the RAV4 Hybrid. We don't get this 7.5 sec for 0-60. Neither of us. Maybe this is because it is still less than 5000 km on odometer. Have no idea. But the bottom line - it doesn't feel stronger. And BTW we were able to go as low as 6.0 L/100 km within the city limits. It wasn't some one-time event. There are some routes that we can reproduce this number consistently.
About the rest - we like the quality of assembly. We don't like those buttons hidden on the central console. Have no idea why it wasn't banned on production?
Make sure it is not in "eco" mode. That will significantly reduce the performance. Also not sure if the RAV4 hybrid has a "sport" mode like my Lexus ES 300h. If it does, then it sharpens the performance dramatically! (the difference is day and night)
Hi Alex, since you mentioned the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, I understand the mild hybrid system only improves the mpg over the regular Crosstrek just slightly, but what about performance?
I'm torn. I don't know if I would be making the right choice with this Rav4 hybrid, new honda civic hatchback, or bmw 328d sportswagon...
Wow, I was comparing the same cars but used 328 sedan. I bought a new 2017 Rav4 XLE Hybrid base.
efive99 I ended up with accord hybrid. Hate the infotainment system but love the car otherwise
I'm liking my Rav4 Hybrid 2 months in. I think this car will last forever. :)
Thanks for fine review Alex. Looks like the gas engine is used merely as a generator, while the vehicle is propelled by electrical motors making good use of their main advantage: neither power nor torque depend on rpms, eliminating thus the need of gearbox. Are there other vehicles on market using similar solution? Electrical motors for the purpose should be small and lightweight (ideally each wheel should have its own unit) - are their construction details a commercial secret?
Hey Alex, in the Rav4 hybrid, where did Toyota put the battery?
Has anyone commented on the Toyota brake oddity? Is it really an issue or can one get used to the slight hesitation between regen and friction brakes?
Hello Alex, i watched all your Hybrid Reviews. Now the new Kia Niro Hybrid comes out in Europe, also a Crossover. Can you Test it ? I really like to hear your opinion. I think this Car with 7 Year warrenty is a Win.
Does this one has the safety features. Lane brake assit, control cruise control ?
This dude is goooooooood.
Alex, what do you think Toyota will do to change/update the Hybrid RAV4 for 2018? I'm torn between just getting the 2017 or waiting a few months for the 2018.
Hello Alex, excellent video. I'm looking at getting the 2017 Limited Hybrid. I was wondering though, what's your thought on Toyota's extended warranty? Is that something worth getting these days? I'm upgrading from an 01 Rav4.
erm, in the regular Rav4 vid u said it had 70dB, which is lower than this hybrid one w/ 71---vs here u said the hybrid was quieter than the regular? I wonder what the dB truly was in the regular car??
Alex, these hybrids typically are warranted to 100,000 miles. The very ordinary gas model will complete 250,000 miles without having to replace the primary motor..
The Prius has demonstrated that Toyota's hybrid system is very inexpensive to maintain in the long run however.
Harry Axe gh
@@AAutoBuyersGuide How will the new hybrid ford escape be vs rav4?
The Mitsubishi Outlander has a hybrid version, or hasn't it in the US?
+jeez3k I'm not sure Mitsubishi is present in the US at all...
when will you review a tesla model s or x?
Alex, car testers do not have to pay for repairs after the short 3 year warrant in done. The extra electric motors complexity will add cost to any repairs or part failure as we have all discovered when repair bills come in for anything electric. Also, Alex, the hybrids as the range starts to "close in " on the warrant, dealers are very cheep on resale offered as "used hybrid" is very worrisome for the next owner. Toyota gas model is good for 250,000 miles on "average", but differently not the hybrid battery.
Harry, read here for dependability of Toyota hybrid systems..www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2011/02/the-200-000-mile-question-how-does-the-toyota-prius-hold-up/index.htm
hi @alex on autos, What car/cars do u have in real life?
What is the towing capacity for this hybrid?
the XLE and Limited Hybrids don't have any rated towing capacity (at least in canada) as of March 2017, but there is a (new?) LE+ Hybrid model that's rated for 1750lbs, you lose some of the premium things like heated steering wheel, and the cinnamon two tone finish, but again, it appears to be the only hybrid option if you need towing
If Toyota offered the Hybrid setup in LE trim Toyota couldn't make them fast enough. I agree the LE or Limited gas only are pointless to consider. Wasn't aware of the spare tire. I would offer a spare tire delete, pre-wired, and offer a dealer installed 2nd battery. If you don't like the ride get a set of Goodyear Assurance Comfotred Touring.
I'm leasing a '15 LE 2WD and yes it ride like a brick on Michelin's. Getting around 26MPG with a K&N drop in air filter.
+Ivan Vojt Agree on wishing they offered the Hybrid in LE trim. If I buy a hybrid it's because I'm trying to save money in the long run (I drive many miles). I still consider the hybrid version an extra $4020 over the gas model rather than the often touted $700 considering all I really need is a LE trim and AWD of the hybrid version is of no comparison to AWD in the gas only models.
+Ivan Vojt I can assure you that a spare tire delete is NOT something you want. Those sealant cans sold at Pep boys or Autozone just makes it much more expensive to replace a flat & if you're complaining about the Michelin Latitude Tour HP, you'll hate RFTs even more than I do.
+Trades46 Check out AmerSeal, amazing stuff. All of the Wallymart, AutoBone, PepBoyz goo in a can is all garbage. RFT's are garbage, expensive, heavy, less of a chance of patching. Check out AmerSeal.
+Car Buyer I'd be just fine with a LE Hybrid 2WD.
Ivan Vojt
If FWD is fine, I would just skip the Rav4 altogether and go for the Camry LE Hybrid. Save yourself $5k and you really don't give up all that much space vs. the Rav4 (Camrys are HUGE vs. their predecessors these days).
You also get a better driving car to boot. Unlike the rest of North America, I never brought into the SUV hype.
Alex, are the tires much smaller on the RAV4 XLE Hybrid?
The XLE model is only about $700 more nit the Limited which is very expensive.