As the best-selling crossover in the US, RAV4 needs frequent updates to maintain its status. The current version is fresh since the new generation arrived as 2019 YM. So, there won’t be big cosmetic changes on the 2021 Toyota RAV4. But, the company already tests some of the possibilities for the new arrivals.
Hybrid is already here and it is one of the most efficient compact crossovers in the market. But, that is not all about this technology. Spy photos are unveiling the plug-in variant of the 2021 Toyota RAV4. Of course, this means some electric range and the better fuel economy. This crossover will also become a part of the TRD family. Unfortunately, we are not going to see the high-end Pro version, but only Off-Road features for the compact model.
A couple of changes will make the 2021 Toyota RAV4 interesting to buyers and the company aims 500k sales. The rest of the lineup remains unchanged, with six trim levels already available for build. The new version will offer more options and the overall versatility of the RAV4 is something that makes this vehicle special.
Prices
Unchanged models will come with the same price tags. The base version starts at $26,000 and the XLE is the only other model available under $30k. Hybrid is currently the most expensive since it costs $34,500, just $200 more than the Limited trim with the conventional drivetrain. The company also announced the price of the upcoming TRD Off-Road package. It will cost $36,300. Definitely, the plug-in hybrid is going to be the new most-expensive version and we believe its price will top $40,000.
When Does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Come Out?
The company is not going to rush with the premiere of the 2021 Toyota RAV4. After the redesign, the new crossover will have some time to show off before the Japanese carmaker starts to upgrade the lineup. As said, the TRD Off-Road package is coming for the 2020 YM, while the major addition for the 2021 season is going to be a plug-in hybrid. Engineers will need some time to test it and the PHEV model is going to be introduced in the second half of 2020.
Engine Configurations
Under the hood of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is going to be a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, no matter if you choose standard or a hybrid variant. The base setup offers 203 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque and returns up to 35 mpg on highway using a front-wheel drive. AWD is optional, as well as the start-stop feature. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a power router for the petrol configurations.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Specs, MPG, Towing Capacity
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 hybrid combines the same 2.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor. This combination returns 219 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque and you can obtain it only with the XSE package. The gas mileage takes a huge boost and RAV4 becomes the most efficient crossover in the lineup with 41/37 mpg rating for city/highway. On the other hand, the towing capacity of the RAV4 hybrid is not as good as the fuel economy. With 1,750 pounds of maximum towing capacity, this is only a half of the maximum the standard petrol unit can haul. Properly equipped, a petrol model tows 3,500 lbs.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Interior and Cargo Space
As the compact crossover, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is not offering plenty of room inside the cabin. Still, well organized, there are 70 cubic feet behind the first row. With all seats up the cargo space measures 38 cu.ft. These are not bad results for the compact crossover, which is 181 inches long. The wheelbase is 106 inches.
The RAV4 adds the Apple CarPlay. This feature is not waiting for a debut on 2021 YM. Also, the carmaker announced that future vehicle will get the Android Auto as well. So, Toyota is modernizing its Entune system, which is also expecting the new generation.
For the base LE trim level, RAV4 gets DRLs and 17-inch wheels. The XLE model adds dual chrome exhaust pipes and fog lights. Its Premium version comes with 19-inch wheels and interior materials of higher quality. Rearview camera and premium audio are other notable upgrades. Limited is the top option and it uses unique wheels, a power liftgate, memory driver’s bucket, navigation, and advanced safety options.
Toyota RAV4 hybrid appears with the XSE package. It combines special parts for this version, such as 18-inch wheels, black-painted trim for fog lights, or two-tone exterior color. However, the highlight for the next season will be the TRD Off-Road. It upgrades the Adventure trim level with special suspension setup, unique coil springs, and the new setup for shocks. Of course, wheels and tires (18-inch matte black + Bespoke Falken Wildpeak Trail) for this package are not available elsewhere. Still, this is not even close to the off-road performance offered by TRD Pro models (4Runner, Sequoia). But, in the future, the RAV4 could become a member of this elite league.
