The Japanese manufacturer is doing the same thing to RAV4 crossover as it did with its Prius model. Adding the “Prime” tag that comes with a larger battery. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime will be a very interesting model for various reasons.
It will also get a drastically bigger battery, which should result in better driving range. Moreover, 2021 RAV4 Prime will offer more power and better acceleration.
Unfortunately, the Prime variant is only available in sporty SE and XSE trim levels. AWD system will be standard, and Toyota will offer a good battery warranty. The 2021 RAV4 Prime will look very sporty, and it will also add sport-tuned suspension and more interior features.
2021 RAV4 Prime Battery Capacity, Charging
The forthcoming 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime will surely offer a larger battery than the regular plug-in model. However, Japanese carmaker didn’t specify exact figures. No doubt, a lithium-ion battery pack will pack at least 38 miles of range.
This is more than a satisfying number for a compact crossover. The latest reports are suggesting a 16-kWh battery that will be charged by an onboard charger of 6.6 kW. It will take around two hours to charge this crossover from zero to full recharge.
Similar figures can be found in Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid minivan. We don’t know how the gasoline fuel economy will be rated. It is an essential issue for Toyota. We expect around 40 mpg combined, like in the standard RAV4 Plug-In hybrid variant. However, don’t be surprised if the figures are lower, due to the weight of the larger battery.
Is Off-Road a Possibility?
Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a reliable off-roader. Like in the RAV4 Hybrid, the front is using a combination of electric motors. The rear part is powered by a separate electric motor. That means the rear-drive isn’t running all of the time. RAV4 Prime is offering numerous driving modes, as well.
A Trail mode will help you in off-road adventures for sure. However, the biggest issue is ground clearance. Whatsoever, clearance is reduced thanks to the underhanging battery. Generally, you can go off-roading, but we strongly recommend Adventure or TRD Off-Road trim levels.
How Does it Look?
As we already wrote, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is available on SE and XSE trim levels. Knowing that SE grad comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and unique front grille. Everything looks sportier than on the base model, and we like a new front lower spoiler. Furthermore, SE comes with piano black accents and additional interior equipment.
As for the XSE, two-tone exterior paint, black roof design, and striking Supersonic Red exterior color are all standard. Moreover, 19-inch alloy wheels are available, along with the vertical LED accents and Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS). Inside the cabin, RAV4 XSE comes with a larger display, leather upholstery, moonroof, and much more.
What About Performance?
As for the performances, the new 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime will pack 302 horsepower. That is 83 more horses than the RAV4 Hybrid model that generates 219 hp.
Prime version comes with a standard AWD system, and it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. To compare, RAV4 Hybrid reaches the same distance in 7.8 seconds. That is two seconds behind the new Prime model.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Release Date and How Much Does it Cost
The approaching 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime will cost around $36,500. Furthermore, the Japanese manufacturer offers a 10 years/150,000 miles battery warranty.
The new company’s crossover will go on sale in Summer 2020. Moreover, it will compete against Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid, and Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.
