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January 23, 2025

rav4 plug in hytbrid vs rav prime

During my research, I examined seven different discussions from Reddit threads to gather various perspectives on the comparison between the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime. These discussions encompassed a wide range of aspects, including cost-effectiveness, driving experience, noise reduction, charging capabilities, insurance costs, and available incentives. While there was a considerable amount of information, the consensus varied based on individual user experiences and their specific requirements from the vehicle. As a result, there is some level of uncertainty as personal preferences and circumstances significantly influence the choice between these two models.

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Cost and Savings

According to discussions from various Reddit threads, the cost difference between the RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime is a significant factor in decision-making. The RAV4 Prime usually costs more upfront, with estimates around $10,000 higher than the Hybrid. However, potential savings from fuel efficiency and available incentives can offset this cost difference over time. Some users mentioned a Toyota lease rebate of $6500, federal tax credits, and even local incentives like a $1500 instant rebate at dealers in California. These incentives make the RAV4 Prime more affordable but still may not completely bridge the gap for all buyers. The potential fuel savings also vary greatly depending on several factors. Some users found that they didn't save as much as expected with the Prime. One user from San Francisco noted that using electricity over gas isn't necessarily more cost-effective due to high electricity prices. However, another user claimed their last tank of gas lasted 6300 miles with the Prime.

Driving Experience and Comfort

The driving experience and comfort level offered by the RAV4 Prime are frequently mentioned as worth the higher price. Users found the Prime's electric-only driving mode enjoyable due to the quietness and torque. The Prime is also said to be 40-50% quieter than the Hybrid due to insulated acoustic glass and traction battery. Some users even preferred the Prime's driving dynamics over the Hybrid. However, the passenger seat height in the Prime model was a point of dissatisfaction for some users. This suggests that while the Prime offers certain improvements, it may not meet everyone's comfort needs.

Charging Capabilities and Impact

The availability of charging infrastructure appears to play a significant role in the choice between the RAV4 Prime and the Hybrid. Users recommended the Prime for those who have a convenient place to charge it at home. For those who don't have access to regular charging, like a user living in NYC, the Hybrid was suggested.

Vehicle Features and Capabilities

The RAV4 Prime and Hybrid offer different features and capabilities which influence user preferences. For example, the Prime's faster acceleration and power capabilities with 302 hp combined power were noted as significant advantages. However, the towing capacity difference between the Prime and the Hybrid influenced some users to choose the Hybrid.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the choice between the RAV4 Prime and the RAV4 Hybrid seems to depend largely on individual circumstances, including cost considerations, driving preferences, charging capabilities, and specific vehicle feature requirements. While the Prime offers certain advantages like a better driving experience and potential for savings with incentives and fuel efficiency, these may not be enough to justify the higher upfront cost for all buyers.

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"Do you guys think a RAV4 Prime is really worth it?"

  • The webpage is a Reddit post in the Rav4prime subreddit.
  • The post is titled “Do you guys think a RAV4 Prime is really worth it?” and was created two years ago.
  • The original poster is considering purchasing a RAV4 Prime XSE with PP but is unsure if the price is worth it.
  • Someone commenting on the post shares their experience in obtaining a RAV4 Prime XSE PP for $52k out the door from Watertown Toyota.
  • This user finds the RAV4 Prime worth it due to their location’s electricity rates and their commute length.
  • The same user also likes the Premium Package because of the heads-up display, 360 camera, and hands-free liftgate.
  • The user has driven 12k miles on their RAV4 Prime and only needed to fill up every two months.
  • The user misses fog lights, ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, 6kW charger, and 360 parking assist when comparing the XSE PP to other models.
  • Other users in the comments discuss the RAV4 SE with the tax rebate being a decent deal and a nice car.
  • One user suggests considering electricity rates and weather when purchasing a RAV4 Prime.
  • Another user mentions feeling the beat-up 10-year-old car they traded in wasn’t worth the $18k they got for it, making the RAV4 Prime worth the current market price.
  • A user with an XSE PP believes the price of a Lexus or Q5e would be around $10k more in this market.
  • Some users mention feeling like car prices in general are high.
  • A user with a Prius Prime believes the RAV4 Prime is worth it and thinks it is the best hybrid.
  • One user shares a negative experience with Watertown Toyota’s service department.
  • This post and its comments are discussing the second-generation RAV4 Prime.

"RAV4 vs RAV4 prime"

  • A user is debating between buying a regular RAV4 and RAV4 Prime as they use the car for work transportation.
  • The RAV4 Prime is around $9-10k more expensive, but the user should be eligible for a $7500 credit if they choose to buy it.
  • Maintenance for the RAV4 Prime isn’t that special compared to the regular hybrid version; only the DC charging vent, which is mandatory in both models, needs to be kept clean (8 karma).
  • Daily driving range and charging capabilities are discussed. One user comments that if you can’t charge daily and drive over 40 miles one way, then buying a hybrid version would save more money than the RAV4 Prime (1 karma).
  • Insurance costs can be higher for PHEVs, along with vehicle registration fees, depending on the user’s location (8 karma).
  • In California, there was a $1500 instant rebate at the dealer, another $1,000 being processed, and hopefully, no issues with getting the full federal tax credit (8 karma).
  • The “Prime” suffix in Toyota’s cars usually refers to its plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) indicator (4 karma).
  • In a standard hybrid, the cost would be lower than the RAV4 Prime, but the user commented on targeting the Prime as it makes sense for typical usage/range (8 karma).
  • The difference in acceleration and power capabilities are likely significant as the Prime has 302 hp combined power and can do 0 to 60 in 5.5 seconds (3 karma).
  • One user mentions that if most of their driving is under 40 miles per day, they would prefer buying the Prime for its electric-only operation, and their second car would be a complete electric vehicle (2 karma).
  • Fifteen years down the road, when the battery lost some cells, the RAV4 Prime would require more expense compared to the regular hybrid (3 karma)

"SE vs XSE"

  • The webpage compares the SE and XSE variants of the Toyota Rav4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid SUV.
  • The author is looking for recommendations on whether it’s worth upgrading to the XSE.
  • The main factors the author highlights for consideration are:
    • Fast charging (only in XSE)
    • Kick to open boot (only in XSE)
    • Two-tone exterior color (only in XSE)
    • Panoramic view (only in XSE)
    • 360-degree camera (only in XSE)
    • Larger infotainment screen (only in XSE)
    • Softex seats (only in XSE)
  • The author asks if there are other significant differences in safety or comfort between the two models.
  • A commenter recommends upgrading to the XSE due to the inclusion of softex seats and fast charging, but acknowledges the higher price may be a deterrent.
  • A commenter asks what PP and AP stand for. PP stands for Premium Package and AP stands for Audio Package.
  • Another commenter suggests that dealerships may be willing to upgrade SE models with leather seats to make a sale.
  • A commenter mentions that there’s no such thing as fast charging on the Rav4 Prime, but that the XSE model has a faster charge rate than the SE model.
  • A commenter argues that the SE model offers good value with its AWD system and over 40 miles of EV range on a charge, despite lacking certain features of the XSE model.
  • Multiple commenters express satisfaction with their Rav4 Prime XSE, but note the high cost relative to the SE variant.
  • A commenter emphasizes the utility of the 360-degree camera for parking and navigating tight spaces, suggesting that it alone is worth the cost of the upgrade.
  • Another commenter agrees on the usefulness of the camera, but notes that the SE’s backup camera lacks dynamic lines, while the XSE’s includes them.
  • A commenter mentions that the SE’s remote start has limited range, with the author of the post confirming this.
  • Another commenter notes that the Rav4 Prime XSE’s mobile app allows for starting the car, locking and unlocking the doors, and setting a charging schedule.
  • Several commenters and replies discuss the availability of the 6.6 kW onboard charger, with some noting that it’s available as an option or standard on certain XSE models or model years, and others noting that it’s not an option on the SE.
  • A commenter suggests that the SE with weather package is a good choice for

"Comparison of rav4 prime and rav4 hybrid."

  • A reddit user test drove a 2022 RAV4 Hybrid Limited and noted significant wind noise that was noticeable and annoying at higher speeds.
  • The RAV4 Hybrid is noted to have nominal sound insulation due to it being an economy car.
  • The RAV4 Hybrid tires are also noisy due to offering better mileage performance. Softer tires could provide a quieter and more comfortable ride but come with reduced EV and gas mileage.
  • One user who previously owned a BMW X3 found the Prime’s seats to be smaller and the materials not luxurious. They described the cabin as being noisy but noted that it’s all relative.
  • Some users suggested considering a used X3, Audi Q5, Lexus RX450h, or Rav4 Prime, with the Toyota being newer with fewer miles.
  • The BMW X3 is noted to be luxurious and beautiful but expensive to repair and unreliable beyond 5 or 6 years of use.
  • Comparing the RAV4 Prime to the RAV4 Hybrid, one user noted that the Prime is 40-50% quieter due to insulated acoustic glass and traction battery.
  • The Toyota Venza was suggested as a possible alternative with a quieter cabin.
  • Some users noted that both the RAV4 Prime and RAV4 Hybrid experience wind noise from roof rack crossbars and glass sunroofs, and removing them could reduce noise levels.
  • One user with a 2023 RAV4 Prime found it to be quieter than the 2022 Prime they test drove but may require seat jackers to improve comfort.
  • Another user noted that the RAV4 Prime has laminate windows that provide better noise insulation compared to the regular Hybrid.

"Toyota rav4 prime xse vs Toyota rav4 hybrid."

  • The webpage discusses the Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
  • One Reddit user states that after tracking all charging and gas fill ups for 20,000 miles, they only saved $853.09 with the Prime XSE compared to driving on gas. They believe that it is not worth the purchase without federal tax credits.
  • Another Reddit user from BC Canada says they saved approximately $7800 over 1.5 years compared to if they kept their old vehicle.
  • Overall, it was found that the Prime XSE is more fun to drive and more like a Tesla when charged, but the Hybrid has better overall fuel efficiency.
  • Reddit users recommend getting the Prime XSE if there is a convenient place to charge it at home.
  • Several Reddit users recommend the Hybrid if the user cannot charge it at home, as the Prime XSE has worse hybrid fuel efficiency than the Hybrid but it is faster, quieter, and smoother.
  • There is discussion on insurance costs of the two vehicles, as the Prime XSE is more expensive to insure due to the value of the vehicle.
  • Reddit users discuss the different trims for the Hybrid and the Prime XSE, with some stating they preferred the tuning on the XSE trim.
  • A Reddit user from NYC states that they are leaning towards the Hybrid version because they do not have constant access to a charging port.
  • Other options to consider are the Woodland Edition Hybrid and other hybrid models from Toyota such as the Corolla Hybrid or Camry Hybrid.
  • There is discussion on the driving dynamics of the two vehicles, specifically regenerative braking, with one Reddit user stating they did not feel the regenerative braking on the Prime XSE as much as on their Prius.
  • Users discuss the price of the Prime XSE without federal tax credits and its comparison to luxury vehicles.
  • The importance of personal preference and whether the car is worth the cost to the individual is discussed.
  • The Prime XSE has a 1500w 120v plug that can be useful for camping or tailgating with a mini fridge, as stated by a Reddit user.
  • One Reddit user recommends getting the Hybrid if finances and fuel economy are the primary focus, but the Prime XSE is a better option if the focus is on a fast, fun, and fuel-efficient ride.

"Rav 4 hybrid vs Rav4 prime"

  • User on r/rav4club wants to know the difference between RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime besides the plug-in aspect.
  • User said that Prime costs $10k more and estimates would take 10-15 years to save that money by going with Prime over the Hybrid because of the potential MPG of the Hybrid.
  • A user responded that there was much more to consider than just the financials, such as the driving experience, reduction of wind noise, 1500W plug in the trunk, longer time in between gas stations, etc.
  • The same user mentioned owning both a Hybrid and a Prime and noted the driving experience of EV-only being better than the Hybrid’s eCVT. They stated that they had traded in their Limited Hybrid for the Prime because of their issue with wind noise above 50mph.
  • Another user mentioned that the Toyota was offering a $6500 rebate on lease and that if you chose to pay cash or refi, you could save around $5500 of it.
  • Another user argued that using electricity over gas was not necessarily more cost-effective, especially in places such as San Francisco, where the cost of electricity is $0.41/kwh, resulting in paying $7.4 for 42 miles of range, compared to a gallon of gas worth $5 for 40 miles in a Hybrid.
  • They also mentioned that even with all the considerations, the pricing difference after adjusting for the lease credit would be around $6.5k, which they did not believe was worth it.
  • Another user mentioned that their last tank of gas lasted 6300 miles, although they stated that it’s best to refill at least once every six months due to gas degradation.
  • A few users mentioned the Toyota Rav4 Hybrid’s ability to use Comma.ai self-driving system, while Prime couldn’t. One user, in particular, stated that they used their Hybrid for highway drives and found Comma very useful.
  • Another user was considering the Rav4 and the Tesla Model 3 Ludicrous, but they were hesitant to go full electric and mentioned concerns regarding insurance and the weight of the vehicle affecting the tires.
  • The user with both the Prime and Hybrid also mentions owning a Bolt EUV Premier, that they enjoy very much but wasn’t large enough for their family.
  • They mentioned the Prime being a stepping stone to a full BEV, and they chose to rent a minivan during their rare road trip instead of driving the Prime.
  • They also remarked that if your life has

"Has anyone bought a RAV4 Hybrid instead of the Prime? Why or why not?"

  • Reddit thread discussing whether to buy a RAV4 Prime or a RAV4 Hybrid
  • Some users got RAV4 Prime over the hybrid for tax incentives and 300+ HP.
  • Users find cruising in an EV very enjoyable due to torque/hp and quietness.
  • Cost difference between Hybrid Limited and Prime is around $10,000.
  • Some users express dissatisfaction with the passenger seat height in the Prime model.
  • Other users bought Prime for toll, parking, travel discounts and HOV lane.
  • Depending on the cost of electricity, recharging Prime battery could be much cheaper than gasoline.
  • One user regarded Venza as a second choice, but got Prime due to 1700 miles driven with 17 gallons of gas used.
  • Another user confirmed that everyone’s needs are different and the decision to buy Prime or hybrid can vary depending on those needs.
  • One person got Prime because of the EV rebate and upgrade from Prius and found recharging overnight was not an issue.
  • Users find Prime quieter than the hybrid, even with the gas engine on, and credit it to additional sound deadening.
  • One person was considering the Adventure trim of the hybrid, which has higher towing capacity than Prime.
  • Some hybrid owners who cannot charge their cars use family members’ homes to charge.
  • Some users who bought hybrid say they are happy with their decision, but would trade it in for a Prime as soon as they can to get plug-in charging.
  • Some users would have bought Prime, but the significant difference in towing capacity pushed them to buy hybrid.
  • Others did not choose Prime because of the high cost and wait time.
  • A user notes that the cost difference between Prime and hybrid is significant, especially when factoring in taxes, fees, and loss of credits, but still, believes the Prime is worth it for its innovative features.
  • One user bought a Camry hybrid instead of RAV4 Prime due to availability and high price.
  • One user chose RAV4 hybrid because they couldn’t find a Prime and would trade it for Prime as soon as possible.
  • Users note that market research comparison of resale values or fuel efficiency calculation can be a challenge for PHEVs.
  • Users exchange information on the estimated mpg for PHEVs and correct each other’s terminology.
  • Some expressed desire for more information on resale value prediction for Prime vs hybrids.

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Performance comparison and user experience

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Fuel efficiency comparison

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Key differences between Toyota Rav4 plug-in hybrid and Rav4 prime