Here's a fun and frugal fact: Canada is the only country in which the Prius isn't Toyota's best-selling hybrid. While Canadians may love their small cars and fuel savings, it appears they also like their environmental statements to be on the subtle side.
In every other market in which the vaguely futuristic, wedge-shaped Prius is sold, it's the top-selling Toyota hybrid; In Canada, that title goes to the Camry Hybrid. This is why we now have the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
The first RAV4 debuted 20 years ago and it's been, largely, a runaway success. The fourth-generation version appeared in 2013; the 2016 models have been mildly received for the new year, with mainly cosmetic changes front and back; the hybrid joins the fleet for the first time.
In product planning circles, the RAV4 Hybrid is what's known as a slam-dunk. The gas-powered version is the best-selling Toyota SUV and the second best-selling Toyota next to the Corolla. What's most surprising about the RAV4 Hybrid, another gas-electric vehicle in the successful mould of the Camry, is that it took so long to get here.
Under the slightly revised skin of this compact crossover, the hybrid system features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine, linked to an electric motor placed at the rear axle to create a true all-wheel drive system. System output, rated at 194 horsepower, is managed by a continuously variable transmission. There are four different drive modes: the all-electric EV mode, eco, normal and sport.
If driven at low speeds and under light acceleration, the RAV4 will run on battery power alone – but not for long. This limited all-electric range makes the Toyota seem much like an old-school hybrid let loose in a world of newer and slicker models. Of course, the addition of an electric motor does produce better fuel efficiency in most conditions, but there's a genuine sense of disappointment when the gas motor kicks in after such limited driving.
Still, it's worth noting that the non-hybrid RAV4 has proven popular over the years. For those who want a RAV4 with better fuel efficiency and some environmental street cred, the hybrid version should resonate strongly.
You'll like this car if ... You find the Prius too geeky to fulfill your eco-friendly motoring desires.
TECH SPECS
- Base price: $34,465
- Engines: 2.5-litre four-cylinder plus electric motor
- Transmission/drive: CVT/all-wheel drive
- Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 6.9 city; 7.6 highway; 7.2 combined
- Alternatives: Ford Escape, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, Toyota RAV4
RATINGS
- Looks: The new front fascia, front and back bumpers furnish a reasonably aggressive look for a compact crossover. The overbearing Toyota grille is mitigated by the front bumper, which matches the front fascia in colour.
- Interior: Interior materials are refashioned but there’s still a lot of hard plastic and odd stylistic choices.
- Performance: While estimated fuel efficiency is praiseworthy, the driving experience is on the bland side. For all its years of working with hybrid technology, Toyota hasn’t mastered the pedal feel of regenerative brakes.
- Technology: This version comes with keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth, a rearview camera with cross-traffic alert, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, suite of advanced safety system and a unique gauge set with eco drive monitor.
- Cargo: While most compact crossovers claim to be legitimate weekend getaway vehicles, the RAV4 actually has the proper dimensions.
The Verdict
7.0
Plenty to like, but not a lot of passion at play.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
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