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 2020 Chevrolet Trax ranked #10 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Chevrolet Trax has a score of 6.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 41 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Easy maneuverability User-friendly infotainment system is standard
Cons Interior quality is a mixed bag Lackluster engine Stiff ride
The 2020 Chevrolet Trax comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. Midnight Edition package no longer available.
Pros Appealing passenger space for its size Plenty of features for the price
Cons Ride quality is choppy on the freeway Slow acceleration from the underpowered engine Less cargo space than some rivals Fuel economy falls short for the class
There's no shortage of small SUVs in the subcompact class and, among them, the 2020 Chevrolet Trax is one of the least compelling. Yes, it's comfortable and spacious, especially in regard to headroom. It stops, goes, and turns. And it comes standard with a healthy load of features, including touchscreen navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot. But its weak turbocharged engine delivers painfully slow acceleration and its chintzy cabin materials and uninspired design, both inside and out, make for rental-car ambience.
Pros Excellent outward visibility, plentiful standard infotainment features, capable enough handling.
Cons Anemic engine, rental-car interior trappings, minimal active-safety tech.
