Toyota RAV4 Plug in Hybrid (2022) Review

The Toyota RAV4 has long been a popular choice among SUV buyers, known for its reliability, practicality, and impressive fuel efficiency. With the introduction of the 2022 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota has taken things a step further by combining its trusted 2.5-liter gasoline engine with cutting-edge plug-in hybrid technology. But is the plug-in hybrid worth the premium price tag? Let's dive into a detailed review of the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid to see if it’s the right fit for you.

It offers a spacious, practical interior, a smooth driving experience, and the flexibility to run on electric power for short trips.

Eye-Catching Design That Stands Out

Toyota has given the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid a bold and distinctive look, which tends to spark a “love it or hate it” reaction. In a market filled with generic-looking SUVs, this one definitely stands out, making it a more interesting choice visually. The RAV4’s sharp lines, rugged styling cues, and aggressive front grille are anything but boring. Whether you find the design appealing or not, it’s hard to deny that Toyota has taken some risks here, and in a world of bland cars, that’s refreshing.

Practicality and Space: A True Family SUV

One of the biggest concerns with plug-in hybrid SUVs is the loss of cargo space due to the additional batteries. Fortunately, the 2022 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid doesn’t fall into this trap. It retains an impressive 520 liters of boot space, making it highly practical for families. The load area is thoughtfully designed, making it easy to fit large items, whether you’re packing for a family road trip or loading up groceries.

Inside, the cabin feels spacious and user-friendly, with high-quality materials and an intuitive layout. Toyota has kept things simple with physical controls for key functions like air conditioning and seat heating, giving the driver easy access without relying solely on touchscreen commands. The cabin materials are durable, if a bit hard in places, but overall, the build quality is solid, and everything feels like it will stand the test of time.

Infotainment System: Serviceable but Dated

While the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid excels in many areas, its infotainment system is where it lags behind. The user interface feels a bit dated, with graphics and navigation that seem stuck in the early 2000s. Thankfully, the SUV comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easier to bypass the built-in system for those who prefer using their smartphones for navigation and media.

It’s worth noting that Toyota has been working on upgrading its multimedia systems across the lineup, so future models will likely address these concerns. But for now, while the system functions just fine, it doesn’t add much to the overall driving experience.

Comfort and Space for the Whole Family

The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offers a comfortable ride for both drivers and passengers. The front seats are supportive and adjustable, with excellent lumbar support, making long journeys more comfortable. In the rear, passengers are treated to generous legroom and headroom, accommodating taller individuals with ease. Even the middle seat, often a tight squeeze in SUVs, feels spacious enough for an adult.

In terms of convenience, rear passengers have access to USB charging ports, ensuring everyone stays powered up on longer trips. The thoughtful placement of fans and storage compartments adds to the RAV4’s family-friendly appeal.

Driving Experience: A Smooth Operator

The real highlight of the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is its hybrid powertrain. The car is exceptionally smooth and quiet in EV mode, gliding along effortlessly and making it ideal for short commutes or urban driving. When starting the car, it defaults to EV mode, allowing you to run on electric power as long as the battery is charged.

When the battery runs low, the vehicle transitions seamlessly into hybrid mode, with both the electric motor and gasoline engine working together to maximize efficiency. This gives you the flexibility to use the RAV4 as an electric vehicle for short trips and a hybrid for longer drives, making it an excellent option for families who want the best of both worlds.

However, when the battery is depleted, the RAV4 feels noticeably heavier, and the driving dynamics change slightly. The car isn’t as nimble in full petrol mode, but this is something most plug-in hybrid drivers can expect. You can always switch to charge mode while driving to regain some electric range, but the most efficient use of the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid comes from regularly charging the battery.

Is the Plug-in Hybrid Worth the Extra Cost?

This brings us to the most important question: Is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid worth the extra investment compared to the standard hybrid version? The answer largely depends on your driving habits.

If you mostly drive short distances and have access to charging stations at home or work, the plug-in hybrid could be a cost-effective option, allowing you to run on electric power much of the time. On the other hand, if you frequently take long trips and don’t have consistent access to charging, the standard RAV4 Hybrid may be a more practical and budget-friendly choice.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid performs well, with real-world gasoline mileage reaching the high 30s (MPG) when running solely on the gasoline engine. But when used properly as a plug-in hybrid, with regular charging, you can dramatically reduce your fuel consumption.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is a compelling option for those seeking a versatile family SUV with eco-friendly credentials. It offers a spacious, practical interior, a smooth driving experience, and the flexibility to run on electric power for short trips. However, the outdated infotainment system and the higher price point may be drawbacks for some buyers.

Ultimately, if your lifestyle allows for frequent charging and you want to reduce your fuel consumption while retaining the ability to take longer trips without range anxiety, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is a solid choice. But for those who are more focused on traditional hybrid efficiency, the standard RAV4 Hybrid offers many of the same benefits at a lower cost.

Whether you're looking for a reliable family vehicle or a more environmentally conscious ride, the RAV4 lineup has something for everyone. The decision between the plug-in hybrid and the standard hybrid comes down to how you plan to use the vehicle and whether the benefits of the plug-in model align with your driving needs.

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