2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was available in four trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE at just over $35,000 to the RAV4 Limited, which exceeded $45,000. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a distinctive two-part face. The Trail trim, tested in its US equivalent, showcased a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional rugged styling elements like a faux skid plate and black cladding. However, these features were more aesthetic than functional, giving the RAV4 a rugged appearance without the off-road capability.

Inside, the Trail trim added orange accents, including a stripe on the seats and contrast stitching, enhancing the otherwise basic interior. A frameless rearview mirror added a touch of sophistication. The RAV4 offered various upholstery options, from fabric in the LE and XLE trims to synthetic leather in the XLE Premium package. The Limited trim provided the most luxurious features, including heated and ventilated power-adjustable seats with memory settings. Overall, the RAV4's interior leaned towards practicality, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid retained the blocky, substantial design introduced in 2019, featuring a trapezoidal grille adapted from Toyota's truck line. This design choice added a sense of heft, complemented by beveled and angled bodywork framing the headlights. While initially striking, this styling approach became more common among competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50. The Hybrid's interior continued the angular theme with a multi-tiered dashboard and beveled cutouts, adding visual interest to an otherwise straightforward layout. The materials used were average for the class, with lightly padded surfaces where contact was frequent. The base model's urethane steering wheel felt cheap, but higher trims offered a leather-wrapped alternative. The build quality was solid, with no noticeable creaks or squeaks during drives over rough terrain.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across all trims, enhancing traction with an added Snow drive mode. While the engine provided adequate power, acceleration was more "unobjectionable" than "exciting," and the engine noise was noticeable, though not as loud as some competitors. The RAV4 Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4 models, offering a balanced ride.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor/generator, delivering a total of 219 horsepower. The hybrid system included a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and an additional electric motor for all-wheel drive. This setup allowed the Hybrid to accelerate to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it quicker than the standard RAV4. The brakes operated smoothly, transitioning seamlessly between regenerative and physical braking. The suspension provided a comfortable ride over bumps and potholes, with confident cornering. While not sporty, the Hybrid's driving dynamics were competent and appealing to most drivers.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered seating for five, with 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear, providing more rear headroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. Front legroom measured 1,039 mm, while the rear offered 960 mm, comparable to the CR-V but less than the Forester. The RAV4's interior featured practical storage options, including a shelf along the glove compartment and generous door pockets. Cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded, placing it mid-pack among competitors.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided ample space for front passengers, with slightly more rear headroom than the CR-V or Kia Sportage, though rear legroom was slightly less. Cargo capacity was 1,059 litres, nearly matching the non-hybrid RAV4, with no significant advantage over competitors. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, though reaching them could be challenging for shorter individuals. Interior storage was a highlight, with a wide dashboard shelf, a phone tray for wireless charging, and large cupholders. Dual-zone climate control was standard on all trims except the base Hybrid LE.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with modern graphics and logical menu arrangements. Most trims featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a 10.5-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with an optional wireless charging pad. The system supported over-the-air updates and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. The top trims offered a fully digital instrument panel and an 11-speaker JBL audio system, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid also received the updated infotainment system, with improved graphics and menu organization. The screen placement reduced distraction, and most trims had an 8.0-inch display, with higher trims featuring a 10.5-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though the wireless charging pad was optional. Connectivity included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote vehicle monitoring. The top trims upgraded to an 11-speaker JBL audio system, providing a richer audio experience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top scores in most crash tests.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. It featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The top trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. The safety systems performed reliably, with smooth adaptive cruise control operation.