I own a 2017 Honda CR-V. I would like to buy a new compact SUV. I hesitate between the gasoline-powered Toyota RAV4 and the hybrid. Do you have a preference?
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Hello Manon,
You are absolutely right to be interested in the Toyota RAV4. In addition to being spacious, this vehicle shines with its overall reliability. It is also the best buy in the compact SUV segment according to the 2023 Car Guide team.
As you already know, the RAV4 is offered with a gasoline engine. It is a naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder block. It develops 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. Considered a safe bet, this version is very interesting. However, we believe that it is wise to opt for the hybrid in the case of the RAV4. Under the hood, we find the same block, but it is paired with a 54 horsepower electric motor paired with a 1.6 kWh battery. The total power developed amounts to 219 horsepower. Thanks to hybrid technology, it is also more pleasant to drive.
Photo: Toyota
While the gas-powered RAV4 will consume 8.4 L/100 km in combined driving according to Natural Resources Canada, the RAV4 hybrid manages to lower this rating to 6.0 L/100 km. Moreover, note that the difference in purchase price is negligible between the two. You’ll pay $32,150 for a RAV4 LE AWD versus $34,390 for a RAV4 Hybrid LE AWD.
As far as we are concerned, there is no hesitation. We would opt for a hybrid version which only offers advantages over a traditional petrol version. Note, however, that delivery times may be longer for a hybrid model due to high demand.