2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, with its bold and angular redesign from the previous year, continued to set the standard for compact SUVs, competing with the likes of the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. The Trail trim, known for its off-roading prowess, featured a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control, making it a formidable choice for adventurous drivers. The TRD Off-Road package, introduced in 2020, further enhanced its capabilities with specialized suspension, all-terrain tires, and distinctive styling elements, while maintaining the rugged yet refined appearance of the RAV4 Trail.

Inside, the 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road offered a blend of practicality and comfort, with TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat to handle dirt and debris. The cabin featured quality construction with soft-touch materials, although some plastic elements appeared less premium. Positioned near the top of the RAV4's trim levels, the TRD Off-Road provided a compelling option for those seeking a balance of off-road capability and urban utility, with a price tag reflecting its premium features.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, while fully loaded, maintained a more understated appearance, akin to a rental car. Despite its high price, it lacked the larger alloy wheels found on the non-hybrid Limited trim and did not offer a Trail trim level due to its electronic AWD system's limitations. The RAV4 Hybrid's styling retained a tough look, but the undersized 18-inch wheels detracted from its overall presence. For those seeking a more upscale option, the 2021 Toyota Venza offered a refined alternative.

Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid impressed with its stylish and functional design, though quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and glossy hard plastics. The test vehicle experienced a minor rattle from the license plate, but overall, the interior was practical and user-friendly. The RAV4 Hybrid's cabin provided a comfortable and connected experience, with clear instrumentation and well-placed controls, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, delivering energetic performance, especially in Sport mode. While a turbocharged engine would have been preferable for high-altitude driving, the non-turbo, non-hybrid powertrain performed well for its class. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally operated smoothly, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection.

The TRD Off-Road model's unique wheels, tires, and suspension, combined with a torque-vectoring AWD system and multi-terrain select settings, made it a capable off-road vehicle. With 21.8 centimetres of ground clearance and downhill assist control, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road handled challenging trails with ease. In urban settings, the TRD suspension smoothed out speed humps, and the 360-degree camera system facilitated parking. However, fuel efficiency averaged 10.0 L/100 km, falling short of the official estimate.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. The hybrid powertrain offered lively acceleration, though the engine sounded unpleasant at high revs. The RAV4 Hybrid achieved impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 5.9 L/100 km, slightly better than the official estimate. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system performed well, with no pedal modulation issues.

The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension and steering provided a comfortable and controlled ride, though the all-season tires lacked grip in corners. The SUV's driving dynamics were favourable, with a relatively flat cornering stance. While not designed for off-road adventures, the RAV4 Hybrid's 20.6 centimetres of ground clearance and Trail mode allowed it to handle light off-road conditions. As a daily driver, the RAV4 Hybrid excelled, offering a smooth and comfortable ride.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy entry and exit, with seating hip points at an ideal height. The driver's seat was 4-way power-adjustable, while the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment but provided good support. The RAV4 Trail featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports.

Interior storage was ample, with a dashboard shelf and a cargo area offering 1,062 litres behind the rear seats and 1,974 litres with them folded. The test vehicle's roof rails and rack extended its utility, accommodating various carriers and racks.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. The rear seat offered decent legroom and reclining backrests, though the cushion felt low. Dual-zone automatic climate control and heated rear seats enhanced passenger comfort.

The RAV4 Hybrid's dashboard featured clear instrumentation and well-placed controls, with oversized climate control knobs and rubberized stereo knobs for improved grip. Storage was accommodating, with dashboard shelves and rear-seat amenities like a centre armrest with cupholders. The cargo area offered 1,059 litres, expanding to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's technology was user-friendly, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The 8-inch system in the Trail trim suffered from glare but was otherwise easy to use, with menu shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Upgrades included navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The voice-recognition technology impressed with its accuracy, and the test vehicle featured wireless smartphone charging and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered infotainment systems with 7- or 8-inch displays, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The test vehicle's top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system with dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was tablet-like, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. The voice recognition was generally accurate, though it struggled with one test prompt. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The systems operated smoothly, encouraging drivers to keep them active. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid also included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The systems were generally effective, though lane-tracing and adaptive cruise control had some quirks. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.