2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Price Range: $23,500 - $39,998

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited 4dr SUV Exterior

Good

The 2021 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 it comes with small compromises to the driving experience and interior quality. It's versatile and among only a handful of hybrid SUVs, but it shares the regular RAV's shortcomings compared to other compact utes.

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Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for Sale

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Average price: $33,122

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Appraise My Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

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

Overview

Written by automotive expert Reese Counts

10/22/2020

For the past few years, the Toyota RAV4 has been one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. Here at Edmunds, however, we've been less enthusiastic. While the RAV4 is undoubtedly practical, it has enough minor drawbacks to make us recommend some other top small SUVs instead. But things are different with the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

The big difference is that we like the hybrid powertrain more than the regular RAV4's. Not only is it more powerful, but it also gets you better fuel economy — about 40 mpg in combined city/highway driving, according to the EPA. Toyota does charge a little more for the hybrid compared to the regular RAV4, but it'll be pretty easy to make up for it in reduced fuel costs.

Though small SUVs are quite popular, there are surprisingly few direct competitors. Only recently have the Ford Escape Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid made their debuts. These three are pretty evenly matched, so it's worth doing some comparison shopping. And if you want something even more efficient — though more expensive — check out the Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.8

out of 10

We drove the 2021 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 a 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 out 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 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.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

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2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
XSE 4dr SUV
$24,571
great price
$4,743 below market
- 87,878 miles
- 5 Seats, 41 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- 32 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Temple Hills, MD
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE is a standout in the compact SUV market, masterfully blending eco-conscious efficiency with a sporty, refined driving ...
Features and Specs:
40 Combined MPG (41 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
2T3E6RFV9MW010913
Stock:
010913
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
05-12-2026
2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Limited 4dr SUV
$30,198
great price
$2,845 below market
- 64,701 miles
- 5 Seats, 41 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- 52 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Hampstead, MD
Our 2021 Rav4 Hybrid features all-wheel drive, navigation, heated seats, power sunroof, back-up camera, lane keep assist, and gray leather seats! Tune...
Features and Specs:
40 Combined MPG (41 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
4T3D6RFV8MU039007
Stock:
TGL039007
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
07-14-2026

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2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim level differences

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid comes in five trim levels: LE, XLE, XLE Premium (new for 2021), XSE and Limited. All five are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor with a continuously variable automatic transmission. A second electric motor powers the rear wheels when traction is necessary, meaning every RAV4 Hybrid comes standard with all-wheel drive. Altogether, the hybrid powertrain makes 219 horsepower. Compare the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim levels in-depth.

Which RAV4 Hybrid trim does Edmunds recommend?

We suggest going with the new XLE Premium trim level. It's less expensive than the XSE (last year's recommendation) and still packs a good mix of features. You don't get the sporty looks or retuned suspension, but we think it's worth the trade-offs given the savings.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.2

71 reviews

5(68%)

4(4%)

3(17%)

2(3%)

1(8%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Exceeding Expectations

Sampson, 10/07/2021

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

We brought our 2021 rav 4 Hibred home this evening. Earlier we test drove two other brands of crossovers. The comparison is not even close. The room inside really surprised both my wife and I. The visibility while driving is great. The highway noise was minimal. On the 70 mile trip home we averaged 40.8mpg @60/ 65 mph. The info center is impressive. As an older couple we have a lot to …

Great but for 12 volt battery

EL, 02/17/2021

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

I have the LE, which rides smoothly, gets good mileage, and is comfy for me, an average sized woman. Main problem is that after 3 months it wouldn’t start. The 12 volt battery on which starting depends hadn’t charged. It needed a tow. Dealer replaced the battery for free but told me I didn’t drive enough to keep it charged. Hmmm. I drive short distances 4 or 5 days a week. I’ll also need …

A hybrid that drives like a full size SUV.

Mike R, 03/22/2021

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

I've only had the RAV4 for a few weeks but so far loving it. I'm getting about 35 MPG (combined) but I do drive "fast" and tend to gun it from time to time. First off, the RAV4 drives quiet at highway speeds with stock Firestone tires. In sport mode this SUV can move---reports show 0-60 in 7.3 seconds and it feels like it. Toyota sense is nice---but I would recommend an XLE with a few …

Love the 2021 XSE trim

HokieAggie, 09/25/2021

2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

After living a year with a 2020 Highlander (a big lumbering box with cheap cabin materials,) I traded for a 2021 Rav4 Hybrid XSE and LOVE it. After 4,000 miles, mix of highway and town... The Good Fun and peppy to drive, especially in sport mode MPG has been between 39 and 45 Ride is comfortable and quiet Great turn radius Knobs and door handles are covered in a rubbery, non-slip …

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2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Features & Specs

Trim:

Est. Market Value	$29,443
Engine Type	Hybrid
Combined MPG	40 MPG
Cost to Drive	$122/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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Reliability

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

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

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Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
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Safety

Our experts’ favorite RAV4 Hybrid safety features:

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 the steering so the vehicle doesn't leave the lane unintentionally.

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FAQ

Is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 RAV4 Hybrid both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.8 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2021 RAV4 Hybrid gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 71 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the RAV4 Hybrid ranges from 37.5 to 37.6 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Learn more

Is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid reliable?

To determine whether the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the RAV4 Hybrid. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the RAV4 Hybrid's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 RAV4 Hybrid and gave it a 7.8 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2021 RAV4 Hybrid gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 71 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 RAV4 Hybrid is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?

The least-expensive 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $28,900.

Other versions include:

LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $28,900
XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $30,195
XLE Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $32,900
XSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $34,850
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $37,430

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What are the different models of Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?

If you're interested in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the next question is, which RAV4 Hybrid model is right for you? RAV4 Hybrid variants include LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), XLE Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), and XSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT). For a full list of RAV4 Hybrid models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more