Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Starts at $29270, Gets 33 MPG Combined

Toyota is known for its hybrid vehicles. The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid brings the number of Toyota hybrid models to eight (plus six more in the Lexus luxury division). RAV4 Hybrid models start $34,465 in XLE trim, the Limited upgrade adds $3,800 to the pricetag, and another $2,775 adds a tech package that includes TSS. The RAV4 Hybrid comes in two premium grades: XLE and Limited.

No matter which trim you opt for, what powers the RAV4 Hybrid remains the same. While the gasser is available with front- or all-wheel drive, the Hybrid powers all four wheels. A second electric motor is located on the rear axle, allowing all-wheel drive without the need of a secondary drive shaft.

Hybrids are becoming cheaper to own with every passing year and this is being spearheaded by Toyota. This new gas-electric version costs just $700 more than the equivalent gasoline-powered RAV4, and offers an 8-mpg bump in combined fuel economy according to the EPA. The system varies power between the gas engine and electric motor, or combines both as needed, all seamlessly. To push that power pack to its limits, the auto also comes equipped with regenerative braking, which uses deceleration as a generator to give the battery a little extra juice. Not only is the hybrid the most fuel-efficient RAV4, it’s also the best performing.

All models come with an Eco mode that softens throttle response and reduces air-conditioning output. In EV mode, the RAV4 Hybrid, under certain conditions, will run exclusively on the electric motor for up to 0.6 miles at lower speeds (below approximately 25 mph).

New exterior styling points include updated bumpers, skid plate garnishes and new wheel options.

LED headlights are standard on the SE version and buyers can get two-tone paint with white, black sand pearl, and electric storm blue over classic silver on the bottom. All hybrid models feature a gauge cluster with a 4.2-inch TFT screen that displays pertinent vehicle information, including a trick little diagram explaining how the hybrid system is working. There’s also a new holder for sunglasses. However, Canadians who buy the XLE and SE models do get blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert as standard, and the base LE gets wide-angle side mirrors to improve blind-spot visbility. A new Perimeter Scan 360-degree camera system helps use a surround-view camera system to see potential obstacles. XLE is already pretty well loaded, including dual-zone automatic climate control and a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with phone-based navigation capability.