The interior of the new RAV4 is refreshingly simple and functional. First, a bold statement: The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited is a nearly perfect vehicle.
I say "nearly" because our tester's sticker price, $40,279, may give some compact-SUV buyers pause. That's about $15,000 more than an entry-level non-hybrid RAV4, but the differences are vast. Also, RAV4 Hybrids come in four trim levels, with the least-expensive LE ringing up at just $28,745 before options.
The 2019 RAV4 Hybrid Limited is the most powerful, most fuel efficient, most pleasant-to-drive RAV4 in the fleet. Although cheap gas has pushed hybrids into the background at the moment, there are compelling reasons to consider the RAV4 hybrid over a non-hybrid.
The RAV4's hybrid system combines a conventional 2.5-liter gasoline engine with supplemental electric motors that gather power from a nickel-metal hydride battery. Together the gas engine and electric motors combine to make 219 horsepower, which is a substantial boost from the 176 horsepower in a non-hybrid model.
Even though gas is cheap, getting 41 mpg city in a family-ready SUV is a bonus worth considering.
FAST FACTS
› Model: 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD› Exterior color: Blueprint› Interior color: Light gray and black› Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors› Horsepower: 219 (combined)› Transmission: continuously variable› Fuel economy: 41 mpg city, 38 mpg highway› Local Dealers: Capital Toyota, Toyota of Cleveland, North Georgia Toyota› Price (as tested): $40,279
The RAV4 Hybrid is available at local Toyota stores such as Capital Toyota on Lee Highway, Toyota of Cleveland and North Georgia Toyota in Dalton. But don't expect a large selection. Most dealerships only have one or two RAV4 Hybrids in stock since they make up less than 15 percent of RAV4s sold.
Pity. I say pony up for the hybrid and let that silky drive-train pay for itself over time. Also, if the mere thought of replacing a hybrid battery scares you, remember that Toyota's set-up is tried-and-true and the system comes with an 8-year, 100,00-mile warranty.
WHAT IS IT?
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited is a top-trim version of Toyota's 5th-generation RAV4 compact-SUV. The RAV4 has become the brand's best-selling model, which is saying a lot for a company that also produces the ever-popular Camry sedan.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Our tester has a bottom line of $40,279 before discounts. That includes about $5,000 in options and handling fees. A weather package ($1,015) includes perforated, heated and ventilated front seats, reclining rear seats and rain-sensing wipers. A sound-system upgrade with subwoofer and navigation adds $580 to the ticket. A tech package ($1,025) adds a smart key, foot-activated rear lift-gate, a bird's-eye view camera and a wireless phone charging station.
The new 2019 RAV4 hybrid is shown in Blueprint blue.WHAT WE LIKED
The crisp new sheet-metal on the 5th-Gen RAV4 is a big improvement over the soft lines of its predecessor. It shares macho design cues with the popular Toyota Tacoma small truck - which, incidentally, has sensational resale value. The two-tone interior is also extremely attractive- in a modern, understated sort of way. Small things, like big heat-and-air control knobs that you can turn with gloves on when the weather turns cold, are big pluses. Also, because the hybrid set-up sends electric-motor power to the rear wheels, all RAV4s are all-wheel-drive.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
No car is perfect. We'd like a little more padding on the center stack and door handles where your elbows rest. Also, the power liftgate seems slow when its 100 degrees outside and you just want to get your ice cream home.
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DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
If you dream of driving a Tesla some day, this is a good halfway vehicle. At times the car is nearly silent and has that instant torque that is addictive in full EVs.
BOTTOM LINE
The 2019 RAV4 Hybrid is instantly one of my favorite vehicles. Anyone who defaults to a Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester - excellent vehicles, no doubt - should at least take an afternoon and test drive the RAV4 Hybrid. It's just that good.
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The interior of the new RAV4 is refreshingly simple and functional.