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.
Former T8 plug-in hybrid is now called Recharge.Adaptive headlights, hands-free liftgate and rear USB-C ports added as standard.
Pros Elegant interior design Spacious second-row seating Many standard safety tech features Available as a plug-in hybrid
Cons Not as fun to drive as most competitors Too many controls tied to frustrating touchscreen interface Ride is a little busier than you might expect from a luxury crossover
The XC60 receives several new standard features for 2021, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, LED headlights, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and front parking sensors, as well as a new 19-inch wheel design and power-folding exterior mirrors with an auto-dimming function. Volvo has eliminated AM radio on the XC60, but fans of the format will still be able to listen via a provided app, TuneIn, through the infotainment system.
Pros Handsomely designed inside and out, good fuel economy from all three powertrains, plenty of standard safety tech.
Cons Infotainment system response lags at startup, hybrid powertrain needs refinement, dinky interior storage bins.
The 2019 Volvo XC60 is the full picture: advanced powertrains, gorgeous interior, subtle exterior.
Pros New, affordable front-wheel drive offering Gorgeous interior Competent powertrains Standard advanced safety features Logical and sharp touchscreen
Cons Can get pricey quickly Not especially fuel efficient without a plug Requires premium fuel It’s not in our driveway now