2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Review

Name: 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Brand: Toyota

Price Range: $14,396 - $39,998

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited 4dr SUV Exterior

Good

7.8

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2020 RAV4 Hybrid promises the comfort of a roomy interior and smooth ride with the practical benefits of large cargo space and impressive fuel savings. It delivers where it counts, but comes with small compromises to the driving experience and interior quality. It's versatile and still among only a handful of hybrid SUVs, but shares the regular RAV's shortcomings compared to other compact utes.

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Average price: $29,644

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Appraise My Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model years

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for Sale

Pros

Excellent fuel economy
Comfortable ride quality
Roomy cargo area
Costs only slightly more than the non-hybrid

Cons

More artificial brake-pedal feel than the standard model
Front passenger seat can be uncomfortable
Tech interface looks dated despite new design

What's new

Newly added Android Auto smartphone integration
Power driver's seat now standard on XLE Hybrid
Part of the fifth Toyota RAV4 generation introduced for 2019

Overview

Written by automotive expert Dan Frio

11/19/2019

With the major changes handled in last year's full redesign, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid carries over with just a few choice refinements. Android Auto smartphone functionality finally joins the existing Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa systems, and that's definitely a welcome addition for Samsung, Pixel and other non-iPhone users. Several new standard features also appear throughout the lineup, including satellite radio (LE and XLE), a power-adjustable driver's seat (XLE) and a premium JBL sound system (Limited).

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

51 listings

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2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
LE 4dr SUV
$20,300
great price
$1,021 below market
- 120,514 miles
- 5 Seats, 41 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- 20 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Upgraded Headlights
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Falls Church, VA
2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE Midnight Black Metallic AWD eCVT 2.5L 4-CylinderToyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Dete...
Vehicle History:
No accidents, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
Features and Specs:
40 Combined MPG (41 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
2T3MWRFV7LW097012
Stock:
86829A
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
05-21-2026
Price Drop
2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
XSE 4dr SUV
$29,330
fair price
$525 above market
- 76,725 miles
- 5 Seats, 41 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- 22 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Arlington, VA
2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE CarFax 1 Owner, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Auto High-beam Headlights, Brake assist, Electronic Stability Control, Heated ...
Vehicle History:
No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
Features and Specs:
40 Combined MPG (41 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JTMEWRFV6LJ037113
Stock:
KRTTLJ037113
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
06-02-2026

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These minor upgrades enhance the RAV4 Hybrid's already substantial appeal. Its comfortable and roomy cabin is solidly built and has sensibly located and easy-to-use controls. Another bonus: The RAV4's bundle of advanced driver safety aids — which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and, on everything except the base trim, blind-spot monitoring — is something that often costs extra on many competitive SUVs.

But for most buyers, the RAV4 Hybrid's fuel efficiency is its main draw. Aside from returning 40 mpg combined, the RAV4's battery-assisted engine generates 219 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 since its V6 engine was discontinued in 2012. The hybrid's dual-electric motor setup also turns the RAV4 into an all-wheel-drive SUV, which should be welcome news to drivers in wet-weather climates.

For now, Toyota has largely cornered the small hybrid SUV market. But hybrid versions of the Honda CR-V and the new Ford Escape are coming out for 2020, and both look promising. Drivers who don't need as much passenger or cargo space can also consider the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid or the Kia Niro. Still, the RAV4 looms large here, and we actually like it more than the regular RAV4. It's a great choice for a hybrid SUV.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.8

out of 10

We drove the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7/10

How does the RAV4 Hybrid drive? Surprisingly swift acceleration, aided by the hybrid's electric power unit, makes the RAV4 Hybrid kind of fun to drive. There's always enough power ready for lively slingshots around traffic, and straight-line sprints are equally entertaining. Our test vehicle did 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds. That's more than one second quicker than the non-hybrid RAV4 and respectably quick for a small SUV.

Things are less amusing when stopping — the brakes feel mushy and devoid of much feedback — and the same can be said of the steering. Still, the XSE's sport-tuned suspension helps the hybrid stay planted and stable around turns. All RAV4 Hybrids have all-wheel drive. It's not meant for off-roading, but it will definitely help provide more traction on snowy and icy roads.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the RAV4 Hybrid? The RAV4 Hybrid can cover long and short distances in pleasant comfort. The XSE trim we tested handled rough patches and bumps with ease without feeling overly firm or harsh. As for the front seats, they are nicely sculpted and padded appropriately, but the seat bottoms begin to feel flat on longer drives. The passenger side's lack of adjustment can also make it difficult to find a comfortable position.

At highway speeds, the RAV4 is generally quiet. The exception is when you hit the gas for a burst of speed, at which point the engine sound gets rather coarse. The climate control system regulates temps quickly and distributes air well throughout the cabin.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? It's easy to get in and out of the RAV4 Hybrid's front and back seats, and the roomy cabin gives four adults plenty of space to stretch out. The RAV4 doesn't feel claustrophobic, and there's good visibility in all directions. And while the rear seats are set low, the front seats are oddly high and can't be adjusted down. It can be an issue for taller drivers and front passengers.

Most controls are logically placed and easy to figure at a glance. Unfortunately, there's still a long reach to the touchscreen. The tuning knob and buttons on the passenger side of the screen require a reach to use.

Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? Audio and navigation controls are easy to use thanks to a large tablet-style display, but the graphics look pretty dated. The tablet is nothing fancy, but it does the job. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard. It's a good thing too since Toyota's native Entune software remains clunky.

Voice commands can handle basic phone, audio and navigation functions but require deliberate verbal input. It pays to spend time training the system to learn your voice — or use Siri or Google Voice instead. The inclusion of advanced driver aids as standard equipment is a huge plus.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? The RAV4's cargo hold is nearly the largest in its class, hybrid or otherwise, and the load floor is low and makes loading items easy. The battery pack doesn't consume valuable cargo space, and the RAV4 Hybrid offers the same luggage space (37.5 cubic feet) as its gas counterpart. Tie-down hooks and a 12-volt power outlet enhance the hybrid's utility.

A small center console and a handful of storage nooks offer space for most small personal items, although a nifty tray lined with rubber grip spanning the length of the dash makes a good spot to park phones and wallets. Parents with young kids will appreciate the RAV4. It's easy to locate and connect safety seats to the lower car seat anchors. Forward-facing seats and boosters fit readily, but installing a rear-facing infant seat on the passenger side will likely require scooting the front seat up.

Fuel Economy

8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? You'll have a hard time doing better than the RAV4 Hybrid's EPA rating of 40 mpg combined (41 city/38 highway). That's not only impressive in its own right, but it's also a full 10 mpg better than non-hybrid RAV4 models. We averaged 35.2 mpg during our test, and that was when driving with an often heavy foot. Drive a bit more deliberately and 40 mpg is within realistic reach.

Value

8.5/10

Is the RAV4 Hybrid a good value? The RAV4 Hybrid looks and feels well-built. Nice tactile touches abound, such as rubberized grips on dials and soft landings for elbows. The optional simulated leather upholstery is soft and pliable.

The hybrid doesn't cost much more than a non-hybrid, and in return you get better power and fuel economy. It'll actually pay for itself in gas savings during your loan or lease. Toyota's traditional warranty coverage is average, but the hybrid components are covered for eight years/100,000 miles. Free scheduled maintenance for two years/25,000 miles is generous.

Wildcard

7.5/10

The RAV4's most recent styling change gives it a tougher look, but there's only so much design aggression you can bake into a crossover. Much of the fun of stabbing the hybrid's throttle for a juicy burst of low-end punch is negated by its rubbery steering, numb braking and droning engine under high load.

Still, its zippy electrically assisted acceleration, taut suspension and modest off-road capability make the RAV4 Hybrid a solid all-around driver. Toyota has mostly succeeded in taking the bland out of the RAV4.

2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim level differences

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a slightly different trim-level setup from the standard model. There's no rugged Adventure trim, for example. Instead, the hybrid follows a standard progression from the well-equipped base LE model to the XLE and the XSE and then to the range-topping Limited. Compare the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim levels in-depth.

Which RAV4 Hybrid trim does Edmunds recommend?

Reasonably priced and equipped with a full roster of safety features, the XLE is an undeniable bargain. But we'd try to swing the XSE if we could. It's a big price jump, but you get a full spectrum of upgrades such as improved interior trim and an 8-inch infotainment screen to practicalities such as a power liftgate and ambient cabin lighting.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$125/mo

$228/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

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Reliability

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

5 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 23V865000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23TA15, 23
Number of vehicles affected:: 999901
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
Defect Consequence:: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. This is a phased recall. The next phase is anticipated in June 2025. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.

Recall Number:: 20V734000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 20TB17/20T
Number of vehicles affected:: 161
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 18, 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.

Recall Number:: 20V373000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 20TB11 / 2
Number of vehicles affected:: 46
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and 2020 RAV4 Hybrid vehicles equipped with electric power steering (EPS). Water may enter through the steering gear box cover and cause a loss of electric power steering assist.
Defect Consequence:: A loss of power steering assist could increase steering effort at low vehicle speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering gear box, free of charge. The recall began August 17, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB11 / 20TA11.

Recall Number:: 20V286000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 20TB08 / 2
Number of vehicles affected:: 9502
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. The front lower suspension arms may have cracks, which may result in the suspension arm separating from the front wheel assembly.
Defect Consequence:: If a suspension control arm breaks, it can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms, free of charge. This recall began August 10, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's interim numbers for this recall are 20TB08 / 20TA08.

Recall Number:: 20V064000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: See report
Number of vehicles affected:: 44191
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid and Lexus ES300h and 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.5L 4-Cylinder engines. Porosity in the engine castings may result in cracks than can allow coolant to leak internally and/or externally.
Defect Consequence:: A coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat and cause a vehicle stall in conventional gasoline vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, for all involved vehicles, the engine may get damaged mechanically, possibly resulting in an engine oil leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the engine including the engine block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 3, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA04. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA02.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Hybrid component Warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 2 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 2 years / 25,000 miles

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.0

86 reviews

5(56%)

4(11%)

3(17%)

2(8%)

1(8%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2020 RAV4 Hybrid Features & Specs

Trim:

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$28,350
Engine Type	Hybrid
Combined MPG	40 MPG
Cost to Drive	$125/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	37.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the RAV4 Hybrid models:

Pre-Collision with Pedestrian Detection: Detects and warns of potential front impacts, including one involving a pedestrian or cyclist, and automatically engages the brakes.
Blind-Spot Monitoring: Monitors your blind spots for other vehicles, illuminating a warning signal on the outside mirrors.
Lane Departure Alert w/Steering Assist: Monitors the vehicle's position in its lane and corrects steering to avoid exiting the lane unintentionally.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover15.5%

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