The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid's #2 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It is the winner of our 2021 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for the Money award and a finalist for our 2021 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for Families award. Currently the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a score of 8.0 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Energetic powertrain Great gas mileage Spacious, handsome cabin Plenty of standard features Ample cargo space
Cons Road noise permeates the cabin
The Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has an impressive all-electric range and low emissions, but the extremely high list price limits its appeal for private buyers and company car buyers alike. The regular front-wheel drive RAV4 hybrid is the sweet spot in the range. It’s fairly ordinary to drive, but strong resale values, astounding economy and a fantastic reliability record make it a tempting option in the large SUV category.
Pros Exceedingly frugal Regular hybrid has slow predicted depreciation Strong reliability record
Cons Terrible infotainment system Rivals are better to drive No seven-seat option
The standard RAV4 Hybrid receives a new mid-range XLE Premium trim for 2021, but the big news this year is the introduction of the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime models. The RAV4 Prime is the most powerful RAV4 offered with a total of 302 horsepower between its gas engine and electric motors; it also offers a claimed 42 miles of electric-only driving per charge.
Pros Strong acceleration, driver-assistance tech is standard, roomy cabin.
Cons Prices start above $30,000, uninvolving handling, most desirable features quickly increase the price.
The 2018 Ford Escape ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Ford Escape has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 56 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Sporty handling Premium interior with user-friendly tech Good safety score and great predicted reliability rating Above-average cargo space
Cons Unimpressive fuel economy
The Escape is fundamentally unchanged for 2018, but there are some tweaks to the lineup and to its standard-equipment offerings.The SEL comes standard with leather-trimmed seating, a power liftgate, heated exterior mirrors, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and LED running lights.
Pros Graceful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, smooth ride, attractive and intuitive infotainment system.
Cons Less rear-seat and cargo space than the class leaders, turbo engines return mediocre fuel economy.
The 2018 Ford Escape has the road manners of another kind of car—but don't worry, it still works well as a crossover.
Pros Tough-hatch lines Ample cargo bin Wonderfully taut handling Tech options aplenty Brisk 2.0-liter acceleration
Cons Busy, space-robbing dash Firm seats, if you’re not into that Not much SUV, if you’re into that Optimistic EPA ratings
