No, this isn't Optimus! It's a new premium, performance version of Toyota's SUV – the RAV4 Prime. This new all-wheel drive, performance version was created to ensure that the Toyota SUV remains a hot sell in the market. It tops all RAV4 models in terms of power and efficiency.
Living up to its prime name, this new premium version is the first RAV4 to be powered by a plug-in hybrid electric system. Once it arrives as a 2021 model, the RAV4 Prime will dethrone the RAV4 Hybrid as the most powerful and fuel-efficient RAV4. The RAV4 Hybrid currently dominates the hybrid vehicle market.
Interestingly, the new 2021 RAV4 Prime builds on the RAV4 Hybrid, both in terms of performance and efficiency. In fact, the RAV4 Prime is 83 hp more powerful than the RAV4 Hybrid, making it the most potent offering in the segment made possible by a more powerful motor-generator and a new high-capacity lithium-ion battery, as well as a booster converter.
The new Toyota RAV4 Prime employs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine found in the RAV4 Hybrid, although this version is tuned differently. While its output remains the same, the total system output has surged to 302 hp thanks to the installation of electric motors.
While the lithium-ion battery of the RAV4 is larger, you don't have to worry about a cramped cabin space. This RAV4 remains spacious, as made possible by mounting the battery under the floor, which also gives this PHEV a low center of gravity and greater stability.
In terms of performance, the Toyota RAV4 Prime can overtake the RAV4 Hybrid with ease. It can dash from nil to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds, or around 2 second quicker than the model it builds on all while using regular gasoline. It is also quicker than the 2012 RAV4, which could complete the sprint in just 6.3 seconds.
A surge in performance usually means a decline in efficiency, but this isn't the case with the Toyota RAV4 Prime. As the first RAV4 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the Prime is estimated to offer 90 MPGe (combined). It is also estimated to travel 39 miles on all-electric mode until the juice runs out.
The RAV4 Prime comes with the Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system found in the RAV4 Hybrid. When necessary, a rear-mounted electric motor powers the rear wheels for better acceleration and improved traction even in unfavorable conditions.
Unveiled at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime will be offered in two grades -- SE and XSE trims. The new RAV4 Prime is coming to dealerships near you in summer 2020.
(Via Toyota)