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 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport's #11 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Nissan Rogue Sport has a score of 7.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Ample cargo room Numerous standard driver assistance features
Cons High base price for class Weak and unrefined powertrain Tight second-row legroom Mixed interior quality
This year is expected to the be the last before a major redesign for the Rogue Sport, so Nissan has made only slight adjustments to the lineup for 2021. The base S trim gains standard 17-inch aluminum wheels while the mid-range SV receives heated front seats, a remote start system, a heated steering wheel, fog lamps, and a leather-wrapped shift knob.
Pros Compliant ride, spacious cabin, fuel efficient engine.
Cons Poky acceleration, low-tech infotainment system, lacks towing capacity.
For 2021 Base S trim comes with 17-inch wheels, Heated front seats and steering wheel, foglights and more now standard on SV.
Pros Cargo space is impressive for the class Small size means good maneuverability in tight city spaces Lots of available driving aids and tech
Cons Engine is underpowered and noisy Bumpy ride when equipped with optional 19-inch wheels Front seats aren't comfortable on long trips
