Love it or hate it ? - Impressions of my 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE after 5 months

[@jean-phil]

I just got my 2023 xse tech and here are my comments : Regarding the cameras and the interior lights, they have been improved so no issue anymore. For example, they added lighting for the window controls and I think they are now all LEDs. This being said, I wish the interior lighting was better/stronger, especially in the trunk, I might add hatch door lights as you did. Also, I agree that I would have liked a knob/joystick to control the infotainment like you mentioned. Regarding the touch screen, it's not as responsive as I would have liked but it's not so far from being perfect imho, I would rate it 8/10. Regarding cargo space, I had a Lexus RX400h previously, in my case, I was a bit disappointed, I mean I knew it was going to be smaller but well I will miss being able to just put pretty much anything without any hassle. Also I would have preferred a 40/20/40 config, could have been useful for skis. Regarding the trunk, it's a bit slow indeed but our RX400h was pretty much the same speed I think. I've seen your ioniq 5 video and yes I see the extra speed, it would have been nice but no deadbreaker, at least it gives more time to my kids to get away from the trunk when it closes ;) Now on the plus side, coming from a old car, having adaptive cruise control is quite impressive, rear/360 camera is pretty cool since my wife always complained about my parking lol, also it feels much safer/relaxing to drive, especially with young kids, not having to worry if they left something on the floor behind the car when "driving backward". Blind spot monitor is pretty cool too and I was under the impression that the Toyota android app was not good but I like it personnally, pretty cool to see reports on my driving, see where my car is parked on a map, being able to start the car remotely, lock the doors, get notification when the doors are unlocked, etc !! Smart key unlocking is pretty cool, no more kids complaining/trying to open doors before I have the time to unlock them. Oh yeah and the head up display (HUD), pretty cool, I like being able to see my speed and the directions. This being said, the directions only works when using the Toyota navigation system, it does not seem to work when using android auto unfortunately. On the HUD, I think you can also have the "road sign assist/detection" (RSA) to see what's the speed limit, that seems pretty cool .. I've not tested it yet, I'm not 100% sure it's available on my car for some reasons.

[@kurtpenner2362]

Good conversation, BB.

[@Boombah49]

I would rather have a manual hatch like on my wife’s Prius, rather than the PAINFULLY and DANGEROUSLY SLOW Prime XSE hatch. My Highlander was the same. Toyota doesn’t listen!!!

[@shepshape2585]

Our Prime gets a lot more range in EV mode. Living in Florida where it's very hot, we get an average of 50 miles range (80 km) and sometimes more. Also, we don't have any of that evil snow, so our reverse camera is never blocked by anything. I admit the quality could be better (it's about the same as our 2015 Prius), but I feel like that's a bit nit picky. Amazing vehicle and we're very happy with it. Premium package in blueprint blue with blacked out badges. Oh, and we also had it professionally ceramic coated with Opti Coat and it's amazing. I would highly suggest having your new Prime coated. I wash the car and literally blow it dry with a leaf blower and the water just flies off.

[@sheltofu]

This issue may have been discussed already, but since there are a lot of comments in the thread, I will ask again.... I live in brutal New England weather, and last week when it was frigidly cold I noticed that the engine or battery made a loud buzz when running, and was especially loud while idling. Has anyone else noticed this, and if so, please comment about whether I should have it checked by the dealer. Thank you!

[@Rockrewls]

In other words if the vehicle is outside you will freeze your ass in the Canadian winter which is true of every Toyota I have been in. (Excluding the Tundra) Toyota fix your damn vehicle cabin heating issues!!!

[@EVDude]

Haha 😂 not necessarily. The heating works really well with the engine on in HV Mode. Just not great in full EV mode. Which is fine because this is a PHEV and not an EV.

[@Rockrewls]

@@EVDude Yeah but does it work well in -25c to -40c?? I now shop for vehicles in those temps to see if they actually will heat the cabin appropriately, so far Toyota has failed miserably every time.

[@EVDude]

@@Rockrewls - 25C no issues with heating. I live in Montreal and it usually doesn't get colder than - 25C, obviously the wind chill is not considered on vehicles. Which city do you live in to get - 40C without wind chill?! 😱

[@susanmaclean-pilat7712]

Thanks for all of the information. My Prime is coming in two weeks. There is so much information, that I’m already feeling overwhelmed! Your video helped calm me down.

[@EVDude]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jpbrayon8256]

"YOU" are good at reviewing!!! Thx a bunch for sharing your experience and expertise. Subscribing was a no brainer. Still debating between the new Venza or Rav Prime. Thx JP, Dieppe, NB

[@EVDude]

Thank you for watching and for the great feedback, much appreciated. The new Venza does look nice 👍🏽

[@markedgarrivera5909]

I have the RAV4 Prime and I don't know why so many people online complain about the sound when putting it in reverse. It is only going to be for a minute or two when going in reverse. It's not like if you will be hearing it all the time. No big deal

[@InternetDude]

It’s no big deal, much better than the loud endless beeping my old plug-in Prius had.

[@r4pluginsuomi191]

Because it is way, way too loud in certain scenarios

[@markedgarrivera5909]

@@r4pluginsuomi191 What scenarios are you talking about? Can you please explain?

[@petegalindez9961]

Agree with you on the USB port issue…BUT, I use a coiled cable, so it’s short, but extends easily to 3 feet…not ideal, but clean looking. Also agree on the rear hatch….However, I have the SE and it’s automatic too…maybe Canada is different. I’m in the US…wish it was manual for 3 reasons. 1. Faster to open and close; 2. One less thing that can break; and 3. NO STUPID BEEPS!!!

[@steamywilly2521]

Great job with the video. Glad to see a fellow Canadian have a prime. Im from Alberta and you don’t see any driving around here. You were right on point with all the same issues, I feel me and my wife are having. We got our 2021 Rav4 Prime XSE(not premium package)at the beginning of this month. We found out that the remote start will not start below -18C. -17C and warmer no problem. Wondering if you noticed the same. Talk to Toyota Canada and they figure they need to change the set points, but until enough people complain, it’s low on their list of issues to fix. Also, in the manual it says the TPWS is located in vehicle settings(equipped on all trims), for some reason it is not displaying on r4p. Are you having this issue?

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching my videos. I've started the RAV4 PRIME at colder temperatures and it worked. Obviously it won't heat much or not at all but it does start the remote climate. As for the TPMS, Canadian models don't have any TPMS installed (we've been given a poorly adapted owners manual which indicates some features that we do not have but our US friends have them) so it's normal you don't see any TPMS menu, it's physically not there in our RAV prime. Hope this helps 😁

[@InternetDude]

I got my RAV4 Prime a few weeks ago, I’m beside you in Sask.

[@jobinivan]

You have a new suscriber here in me! Thanks for your very insightful video. I live also in Quebec, and was very interested by your real life experience. Still waiting for an XSE Premium to arrive (ordered in August). Happy to learn that you still like it after 5 months in our sometimes cold weather :-)

[@EVDude]

Thank you for watching. Don't hesitate to contact me in the Facebook group if you have any questions : facebook.com/groups/2794831720561300/?ref=share

[@anthonylavelle7229]

Good video, timing for posting was good, saw a few minutes after posting it... Thanks for sharing, I also learnt something, pressing down the talk button activates the CarPlay voice feature... Coincidence today, wanted to send a text via the voice, on the Toyota system, can only send defined text message so I had to plug in the Carplay. Now I know about the button, I will use that from now on. Agree with most everything you mentioned and I love this vehicle also. Looking forward to more tips and R4P upgrades :-)

[@Boombah49]

I have contacted Toyota multiple times concerning a PARTIALLY HEATED steering wheel!! They said I need to keep my hands in the proper location!?! Turning the wheel is not part of the equation?? They obviously have never lived in northern Ontario!

[@zi0cat]

Thank you. I'm waiting for an XSE and well aware of other cars I can get for the same money.

[@postskeetclarity]

Did you get one yet?

[@zi0cat]

@@postskeetclarity It was built May 11. I'll look forward to seeing it in a month

[@Celion27200]

Hi. I would ask you something. maybe you heard about the problem on RAV4 with the cable that brings electricity to rear motor. can you tell us about this issue on your car ?

[@utah133]

I like PHEV'S! I've owned two Chevy Volts. I'm seriously considering the RAV4 Prime.

[@3636lk]

One would think that it's a safety issue to have the controls on the door lit up, how cheap of Toyota! They also need to add sound deadner to the panels, the Rav4's sound like a tin can, not impressed with Toyota.

[@WaywardAnalysis]

Why not just use bluetooth for your phone connection? You can always get a holder (for $5.99 or so) to position your phone for anywhere....for video/map and all the functions.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching! It's a great idea but I rather have navigation on the car's infortainment screen which is bigger and easier to see rather than having it on my smaller phone screen. I guess it's a personal preference. Thanks for the suggestion :)

[@allandawson2078]

Thanks. Please keep posting. Picked up our XSE without the premium package today. Manitoba, unlike Quebec, has no subsidy for EV purchases. However, we took advantage of the federal subsidy.

[@InternetDude]

Same here in Sask, just the $5K federal credit. Although my dealer gave me some BS that I may not be allocated that, they came back and it was on the sales sheet. I think they may have been trying to rip me off but in the end it worked out.

[@nkcali2305]

Does your car without premium package allow you to charge it fast (2.5 hrs) with fancy cord? Or premium package is the only option?

[@markthompson5803]

@@nkcali2305 The Premium package gives you the 6.6Kw charger.

[@jomojigz]

1. The turn signal by default is set to 3 flash but can be customised up to 7 flash. 2. The vehicle alert system, that weird sound you mention during reverse is also in slow moving forward in Electric mode only. It does not come on when engine runs. The audio during reverse becomes louder because the speaker is located near bumper by the grille, so to be able for it to be heard at the back it needs to be louder, compared to moving forward. 3. I don’t know why people complain about the slow boot door opening, does it matters 3-5 secs faster, are you really in a hurry? 4. Interior lights & external lights can be changed to LED. 5. About using your phone to call, you don’t need to unplug it, the purpose of apple car play and android auto is to use hands free calling. 6. Heat pump in EV mode only operates from -10C & up. Below -10C it is disable. If you keep the car inside garage you at least keep the ambient temp higher so heat pump works. Yes it has 3 PTC electric heaters but very limited power wise. Electric heaters uses more battery power, Overall the main design is economy by preserving battery power, so heating at very low temperature it requires engine to run.

[@scootsmcdoots80]

Every KZbinr must be a getaway driver loading their RAV from a bank heist so they need the hatch to open in less than one second. Some pre-planning for them to start opening their hatch 3 seconds earlier would go a long way.

[@EVDude]

Thank you for your feedback. 1. Yes I'm aware you can change them via the OBD and TeachStream or by going to the dealer. Toyota doesn't make it easy to change it yourself via the OBD and the TeachStream software is pretty expensive. 2. Also aware of why the alert system is designed this way, many other EV cars don't have this level of sound even on reverse. I've driven Tesla, Volt etc.. The level of sound is much lower. 3. It's my opinion,m that it's slow compared to the CRV for example. Wasn't complaining about it, merely stating that it takes longer than other cars. 4. Yup changed all my interior lights to LED, even made a video on it 😁 5. It wasn't about using my phone for calls (I do it with Android Auto all the time), it's about using the phone while being stationary (checking emails for example) , if you don't have a long enough cable, you can't do it and if it's long, it takes a lot of place in the front. But that's not the issue, it's about not being able to use different USB ports for Android Auto and being limited to the front only. 6. Heat pump does not get disabled below - 10C. The heat pump becomes ineffective but still works shooting out cold air no matter the temperature. If you want heating below - 10C, yes you will need to start the engine but there's no way of remote starting the engine on the RAV4 Prime unless you install a remote starter. The climate start included in the Prime does not start the engine.

[@davesutherland1864]

Great video, very down to earth delivery of your impressions. Glad you ended by saying you would buy it again as mine is coming in about 6 weeks

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching and for the feedback. I'm pretty sure you'll love yours!

[@andrewpeprah9299]

Question, from your perspective how do you think the XSE with premium package will fare in hot weather like in Africa?

[@EVDude]

I don't see why it wouldn't work but I would be worried about the battery always over heating but it does have a battery cooler.

[@Babine125]

Excellent video and very pertinent information, you and I think the same way. Again a BIG thank you for the video :)

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching 😁

[@yablog]

Merci pour ton retour d'expérience sur ton nouveau char ! c'est une belle machine ce RAV4 PRIME, Bravo 😎👌

[@EVDude]

Merci d'avoir regardé la vidéo! :)

[@InfallibleBible]

Wondering if I should wait for 2022 model? Do you have any info on it?

[@nkcali2305]

Spring of 2022

[@quanvu5745]

Very good review! Professional and details! Hope to see more review from you on KZbin Chanel. Nice works.

[@EVDude]

Thank you for your feedback, really appreciated 😁👍🏽

[@tommihelich2613]

I’ve had the car for a week. A few gripes: 1. Impossible to change from one playlist to another specific playlist (or song, artist,album) by the touchscreen without stopping the car. According to manual I can do this with voice control but haven’t had any luck yet. 2. Driving in predictive cruise control: the lane keep assist “follows” the vehicle in front of you. So if that car is swaying back and forth in the lane so are you! Interesting. Fortunately I can turn off the LTA or switch to regular cruise control with or without LTA. 3. There is a lack of space to store stuff up front. The owners manual takes up half of the glove box and the space for the wireless phone charger, if there’s a phone there, is useless. That leaves the smallish console box and a few open spots. 4. The accessory buttons on the left of the steering wheel(auto high beam, rear hatch, steering wheel heater, camera,etc.) are set too low and are hard to see. 5. The WiFi hotspot requires a subscription through AT&T. NOW HOW GOOFY IS THAT!! But that’s about it for complaints. I received an XSE with all the Premium pkgs. The cars’ ride is comfortable and quiet. Sound system is very nice. No additional dealer markup where I am in Oregon, but I did pay full MSRP. And although mine came with the high speed charger I don’t have a 220v outlet so I make do with the standard overnight charger. Works fine. Depending on the temperature outside I’ve gotten 35-41 miles of electric only so far. I’m still breaking in the engine so I’m going easy for another 400 miles. But that said it is easy to merge into traffic or pass a car without flooring the accelerator. Instant torque from the electric motors.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching and especially, thanks for your input about your experience. I do feel you about the instant torque. I came from an Audi A3 2017 Quattro, it was nice, but I'd never go back to a regular car once I've tasted the instant torque of EV driving.

[@sptrader6316]

Put the manual with the spare tire. Don't waste glove box space with something that you'll rarely use.

[@jlawr4427]

The "blinkers" ARE adjustable to change from three times to five times. Your dealer can do it for you with Techstream or you can buy Carista and do it yourself.

[@jclegault]

Thanks so much...i’ll be having my rav4 march 8....can’t wait!

[@EVDude]

Congrats on the RAV4, I'm sure you'll love it and thanks for watching my videos.

[@kevin6550694]

Tell me how the Quebec government can subsidize you $8000 + the Federal government $5000? I'm moving to Quebec. Who wouldn't take advantage of that!

[@EVDude]

It's done directly at the dealership. 13k is taken off from the sales price. (after taxes of course)

[@MpchBrwn]

Android auto doesn't work vía bluetooth? I was looking to install a wireles charging plate, but It wont make sense if I cant use Android auto vía bluetooth.

[@EVDude]

No there's no Android wireless. You'll have to get a separate device for that.

[@TheZohebShaikh]

I dont own a Prime but from what i've learned, it does have an auto starter if you press the lock button 2 times then hold on the third time. Im not sure if it turns just the electric part or turns the engine on. But if you have audio plus with phone capabilities then your car fob should be able to do it.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching. You don't need to do that. There's an A/C button on the keyfob that starts the climate control.

[@Drogos79]

so it will heat it up on electric only right? Can you do that while it's plug in? When outside...it won't start the engine even if it's very cold and heater is on??!!?!? So you basically cold start the engine in winter each time you enter the car for the first time even if you remote started before?

[@EVDude]

Exactly. The climate control will start to heat up the cabin in electric only but will not start the engine until you get in it and start the car.

[@davidgapp1457]

Very useful video and many thanks for the links!

[@stephenfiore9960]

You can’t start your car when preheating in a closed garage due to carbon monoxide poisoning

[@EVDude]

The RAV4 Prime never starts the engine for preheating. You can safely use the remote climate every single time.

[@jonnbraman967]

Do you have or do you plan to install TPM (tire pressure monitoring)? I understand they are standard on US models. Wondering if anyone has experience with Canadian RAV4 TPM?

[@EVDude]

I've never had TPMS in my previous cars so I wasn't planning on to. There are retrofit models you can get but I don't think you'll be able to integrate it to your cluster gauge just like the OEM.

[@DenisBissonExplorerchess]

Hi @R4Primer! Thanks for all these informations and feedback. How many kilometers on the odometer so far since you got your RAV4 Prime? (Sorry if you mentionned it, I missed it).

[@EVDude]

Hi thanks for watching, I'm currently a little over 9000 km driven 😁

[@Koemgen2000]

Hello good vidéo,you have gained a new subscriber. Quick question, have you seen a significant increase in your electricity bill due to recharging?

[@EVDude]

Thanks for the subscription and watching the video. It costs me roughly $1.60 CAD per charge, so I would say around 40$/month for charging.

[@batymahn]

Have you experienced any oversteer or understeer? I have an old AWD system which is great in deep snow but in light snow the rear wheel sometimes have more traction than the front. I'd love to be able to turn off the AWD, except when I need it.

[@EVDude]

Hey, thanks for watching. As of now, no under or oversteer in rain or snow. But the front wheels do get more power and back wheels gets used occassionally.

[@andrewpeprah9299]

What about the DC converter that has to be replaced on some of these Prim😊es?

[@EVDude]

I haven't hear of it since I sold the Prime a while ago. I know there was a recall for some bolts that needed to be changed but wasn't aware they needed to replace complete sets of the DC-DC converter.

[@luxohimmeltasser5666]

My issue with my R4P in cold weather (below 0 degrees C), If I switch to HV mode, it becomes a pure gasoline car, it isn't even acting as a non plug-in hybrid, even after the warmup cycle, just plain gasoline car, same goes for below -12C, just a pure gas gussling car. My 2 cents is it has something to do with a badly designed battery pack heater system, since it cant heat the battery enough to be utilized in cold conditions. It seems like it is only I that have this issue, I have been trying to reach out to other people in different forums, but no one seems to have this issue. The heat pump is a joke below -3C, it barely provide any heat. I had the 12V battery, hybrid system malfunction and PCS system malfunction message issues you mention and the TSB is a replacement of 4 of the connection bolts on the DC/DC converter, not a dead 12V battery! I have had these bolts replaced and the fault messages stopped. I have had a ton of issue with the android app, the app update(s) didn't do anything to fix my problems, the only thing that fixed the issue to some extend was the the software update of the car, witch mainly was to fix App remote control, the car went into hybernation after x amount of time, and the App was not able to communicate with the car, so they added the "wake up the car" function.

[@rammanohar8161]

You need to tell this to the fools who are buying this car 10K above MSRP

[@SunSeekerHawk]

In what way did switching to the smaller 18" wheels improve handling? I notice the specs for the SE has a 36.1' turning circle, as opposed to 37.4' for the XSE. Did switching to the 1" smaller wheels cut 1' from the turning circle?

[@EVDude]

A smaller and narrower tire with a higher profile has better traction in deep snow. We get a lot of snow in Montreal so downsizing from the OEM 235/55R19 to 230/60R18 made sense.

[@stpaulmercantile]

Skinnier tires don’t have as much resistance to the snow they have to drive through.

[@tnguyen7374]

Hi, Do you need the NOCO Genius 2 charger ? Other automatic charger (from Master Craft) can handle the charge ?. Unless some particular requirements of the RAV4 Prime ?. Thanks

[@EVDude]

Any smart charger would do the job. Make sure to read the drivers manual as there is a recommended maximum of amps. I opted for the 2A. If you haven't yet, you can also watch my other video where I go more into details about testing & charging the 12V battery : kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGqUq3d9fsl-rac

[@tnguyen7374]

Thanks You for the clear answer. If I buy online the charger GRIZZL-E, what is the steps required to get the gov. subvention ? Do we have to have the installation certified by a qualified electric technician or only the invoice of the unit and the car registration documents are sufficient ? Please advice.

[@seanosullivan8706]

Great videos and thanks for the information. I'm in the UK and getting my RAV4 PHEV in a month or so. As they have not been driven at all in the UK it's really useful to hear from owners who've had experience of the vehicle. You mentioned the 12v battery gets charged through an inverter from the 18.1 kw battery. What happens when the 18.1 kw battery is "fully depleted" ( i. no full EV ability) and the car reverts to ICE hybrid, how does the 12v battery charge? Regenerative breaking? Is that enough to burn through a full tank of petrol and potentially several hundred miles on petrol/hybrid alone. You mention there is no alternator. How does the petrol engine generate electricity in the Charge mode? When you have been driving and have fully depleted the 18.1 kw battery, are you still able to put your foot down and accelerate with 302BHP to 60mph in 6 seconds? Many thanks.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching and for the feedback. As for your question, this is how the hybrid system works in the R4P: Once you have depleted the EV range, your 18.1 kw battery is actually not depleted. Even when you see a range of 0km, the car preserves roughly a 20% buffer to make the hybrid system work. So that means, when the ICE is on, it also uses the battery. Also to take into that is that when the ICE is running, the hybrid battery gets charged which in return charges the 12V battery through the DC to DC inverter. That's why you always have access to 302hp in HV mode even when the EV range is depleted, because it has that reserve for the Hybrid system.

[@seanosullivan8706]

@@EVDude Thanks for your prompt reply. Great stuff!

[@stephenfiore9960]

@@EVDude …Where do you learn stuff like that?? The owners manual/google???

[@EVDude]

@@stephenfiore9960 technical documentation from Toyota found on the internet and Owners Manual.

[@stephenfiore9960]

@@EVDude thanks. May have to do similar research myself one day. I have an Electrical Engineering degree.

[@scootsmcdoots80]

LED lights inside would annoy me when driving at night. I don’t get why everyone wants LED lights inside. Also with the door lock/unlock there are identifier bumps on the lock button so you don’t need to look down. Just find the lock button and moved down to the unlock button. No different than finding F and J on a computer keyboard, but I guess not everyone can type without looking either.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching and I appreciate your feedback. The LED lights are not while driving it's more for entering and exiting the car. The orignal lights are pretty dim and it can be hard finding stuff or even loading and unloading groceries. As for the lock/unlock, you're right you get used to it after a while. Like you mentioned, it's like typing on the keyboard, it becomes fairly easy but I previously owned a car that had the lights and it helped as you don't always have your hands on the window switch vs a keyboard.

[@r4pluginsuomi191]

It's completely unacceptable not to have backlight door switches for a vehicle in this price range!

[@scootsmcdoots80]

@@r4pluginsuomi191 since every prime out there has sold it seems acceptable :P lol j/k. I know what you mean I wish they didn’t cheap out and use the same ones that they use in the Camry. They probably had extra stock from their Corollas and used those. That said this is an entry level SUV it’s not like it’s a Cadillac. It is basically the Corolla of SUVs whereas the Highlander is equivalent to a Camry. I think people forget that it is what it is.

[@jclegault]

I saw that you have been using a smart charger for the 12 V battery....does this battery supply the camera that you have? …. I’d love to see where are the connectors on this battery… how do you reach them... again , your video is just great!

[@EVDude]

My dash camera is connected to the front fuses which drains the 12V battery. I have a voltage controller which stops the dashcam from draining the battery up to a certain level. Here's a video I made on how to charge the 12V battery, also shows how to reach the battery connectors : kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGqUq3d9fsl-rac

[@EVDude]

Thank you Jean-Claude for your feedback, very much appreciated. 😁

[@goldenvoiceofnepal]

hi how come you have the digital mirror and a camera on the rear window inside as well. i think canada comes with 6.6kwh charger... but i am in the states we only get 3.3 nor digital mirror with out PP

[@EVDude]

It's included in XSE models in Canada (without PP)

[@goldenvoiceofnepal]

@@EVDude ahh , also I wish I could buy the oem version of the inverter. Is that available in Canada

[@HHH-nj9wq]

Have watched lot of your videos. Thanks. I just heard that you have had an issue with cable Android Auto. May be, by now, you already are aware that there are many wireless Android Auto kit available nowadays. Please do some research on Amazon. The kit range from a Plug and play one to more work ones put there. Hope it helps. Thanks again for all the videos. I just got my XSE prime just now. Best.

[@badimpulses17]

Glove compartment does not have a lock. Been looking for after market lock but no luck. Still love my Rav4 Prime now with 4,000 miles. I used to own a Model Y the Prime is better i my opinion.

[@PostprandialTorpor]

I’m interested in a R4P eventually. Coming from a 2003 Honda Accord manual coupe that still kicking and has a locking glove box. How is that not standard in a cars 16-18 years later?!

[@johnmccarthy3319]

Really nicely done, you cover things very well!

[@EVDude]

Thank you for watching and for the feedback. 😁

[@laurentbriand5528]

Thanks , very good job and usefull forme.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching 😁

[@Drogos79]

Thank you for this comprehensive review. For once, someone is not talking about outside trims for 10min straight. Now, you just need to purchase Tuscon PHEV to compare it so I can make more informed buying decision ;)

[@MA-wo3fb]

Just got mine 3 weeks ago, I used to have an Lexus RX, will wait for Lexus to offer something like this to switch over, how can you explain a $50.000 car that don't have interior lights on the switches nor in the glove box or the storage box, mine did have all leds inside, mind you mine is the SE model, the touch screen is very slow to respond. What is really that expensive to have a compass? Was expecting to have HD radio but no luck there either, things being what they are you have to do with the car they can find for you plus a market adjustment value. I am at 700 miles, still on my original fuel at half tank. In a couple of years Lexus will have an NX with the same platform and there are going to be many others to choose from. This is the best compromise in between an all electric and all gas car, The Bolt GM got it back from us, it was a city car any ways, anything more than 100 miles each way and you are done. Plug in it up at a charging station is a rip of, at 0.45 kwh I might as well drive the Silverado

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching and I completely agree with you. Toyota could have added these extra little details and would have made all the difference in my opinion. Fortunately I was able to change the driver side window switch and it's finally lit up at night but for the main dome console, it's still a pain in the ass to turn on the lights. Also Toyota's infotainment system really needs an upgrade. Im eagerly waiting for the bz4x production to start, I've seen major upgrades for the infotainment.

[@MA-wo3fb]

@@EVDude just out of curiosity. how much did the switch cost you, how hard is it to change, do you have the part number?

[@EVDude]

@@MA-wo3fb I made a video about it, you have all the info there (the link to the switch is in that video's description) : kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmeyZHmLf9eUnbs

[@HHH-nj9wq]

Haha. Lexus just announced NX-450H+ for a more expensive RAV4 Prime rich bro. You need to switch soon.

[@cherep777]

Hey. What kind of floor mats did you get!? I wanted to order weathertech but they don’t have it yet for Rav4 prime . Wondering if there is anything similar !?

[@EVDude]

Hey there, thanks for watching! We get winter mats included with our RAV4 Prime here in Canada so I didn't need to get mats. (we get summer and winter mats). They actually do a good job and they fully cover in the back but I would want to get a slightly better one for the driver side. I was looking into these but still haven't purchased : www.amazon.com/dp/B0851QSXNM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_A8FPHNHKP6HT2FPEX9BT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&fbclid=IwAR271zJkt5-VuvYr0SYszct6EQpiaJutHiuUuFSh7hagbLufk1uxmuIf_YA

[@EVDude]

You can also check out my RAV4 Prime album, I have pictures of the mats that are included : photos.app.goo.gl/TM58djNVPjZvfWms5

[@cherep777]

@@EVDude I’m in Canada too. I’m from Toronto area. Suppose to get my car end of this month. I looked at your pictures !?- are these came with a car( like standard mats!?- or it was accessories you payed for!?) The link from amazon says its for Hybrid only( so I was wondering if they will fit prime. All my previous cars had weathertech mats,- they are laser fit/cur ,- and always Fit like a glove. Oh,- and what is the color of your car!?- is it silver sky metallic!? - because I ordered that color but never seen it before...!? So wondering if its the same look!?

[@EVDude]

@@cherep777 These winter mats come included with the car, you don't pay for them just like wheel locks as well, they're free with every vehicle delivery. The link I sent will fit on the Prime, there are people who bought it in the states and it fits. And as for the colour, I got the Silver Sky metallic with black rooftop (XSE).

[@petegalindez9961]

Great review! I too bough the Grizzl-e 40A charger for my RAV4 Prime SE. My first one was defective and I emailed the company (even though I bought it on Amazon). They immediately sent me a new one with a paid label to send the old one back. No issues with the new one. Great customer service. I do wish I went with a smart charging unit though since there is no way to track the charging on the car via the app…no notice when it’s charging, when it’s done, percentage charged, etc…you need to get in the car…bummer. I’m in VA and have had mine for almost 2k miles now. Drive 19 miles one way to work, 38 round trip. 80% highway (some 60mph limit, some 65mph). Mine charges to 51 miles of EV range. Weather has been mid-80s as of late, so using the AC a bit. Overall, I love it! Coming from a TESLA Model 3 that I loved, but it was time to try something new and I wanted a PHEV. This car is ideal so far, despite some complaints (no charging tracking, app sucks, UI is ancient, speakers suck, backup camera is a decade behind the times…BUT, it has CarPlay, which my TESLA did not! Which is huge! Even though the Tesla uses Google Maps, the routing sucks…it doesn’t give you options like Googlemaps on your phone, so you are often breaking your trip up by legs, hopping from Supercharger to Supercharger if you don’t like the route the TESLA chooses. Last complaint. TOO MANY BEEPS!!!! Honda and Toyota both have cornered the market on who can have the most useless beeps in a car…unreal…but, none were deal breakers…planning to upgrade the speakers based on your video (just arrived today, so will do it this weekend).

[@jeffmelodia2077]

Just got back from my local Toyota dealer and they told me that all of the dealers are adding a $10,000 premium for the RAV4 prime because it is a "hot " car. That made it over $51,000 plus's tax which is more than the Tesla model Y.

[@EVDude]

Sorry to hear that. We're lucky here in Canada, dealers cannot sell over MSRP.

[@InternetDude]

I paid MSRP. The markup thing is dependent on which dealer you deal with. Shop around!

[@jeffmelodia2077]

@@InternetDude that was my local dealer. The one I would take to get it repaired. If they can’t be trusted then I cannot trust the product or company. If Toyota is OK with it then I am not ok with Toyota

[@InternetDude]

@@jeffmelodia2077 suit yourself but check out the R4P facebook groups. LOTS of people are simply buying from another dealer and/or out of state. The dealer that sells you the car is irrelevant to who services it. It has warranty, you could buy it from across the country and the local dealer will still work on it, I guarantee that. It's under warranty anyway so I'm not sure how they'd rip you off for service?

[@InternetDude]

Your dealer is full of shit. Are you in SoCal by chance?

[@gateslattes4686]

Hi, I’m from Montréal Does ev mode work under minus 4 Celsius? Defrost? Would like to drive weekly on ev mode Thanks Gâtes

[@EVDude]

The engine starts in these conditions : When you turn on the heating under - 12C, if you turn on front defrost (no matter the temperature) or when the battery temperature is not optimal for EV usage. At - 4C, you should be able to do most of your driving in EV.

[@sylvainalain6637]

How long were you on the waiting list ? I’m from Quebec City and I end up with a RAV4 Hybrid 2021 XSE because the Prime had a waiting list of 16+ months. I waited for my Hybrid XSE 9 months

[@EVDude]

I ordered in February 2020 and got it in October 2020. So 7 months.

[@hishamhaddad6812]

Hi Dear sir, due to some reviews that I’ve seen recently I am getting concerned about the preheating of the RAV4 prime in our Canadian very cold days, does the RAV4 prime heat up enough when it’s -20°C, Can you force the gas engine to start if it’s below a certain temperature? Thanks for the help buddy

[@EVDude]

It heats very well at any temperature. The EV mode heats well until - 12C, after that, the engine kicks in depending on the power needed to heat. You can force the engine to heat as well by turning on the front defrost.

[@CDavid140]

It's funny that they put sound on electric/plug in hybrids while reversing but not on regular hybrids. I have a 2018 hybrid Camry and, during the summer, the motor rarely turns on while reversing

[@EVDude]

I have a Corolla Hybrid 2021 as well and it makes a sound while reversing 😱 Maybe on newer models?

[@antouab221]

Nice SUV, can you lift it a few inches? That would help rural dwellers to navigate deep snow and very poor muddy road conditions. Perhaps, use smaller wheels and more rubber would help too. Liked n subscribed, well presented video, thx for sharing.

[@EVDude]

The RAV4 Prime a few inches higher than reguar RAV4 due to the battery being on the under carriage. Not sure if you could actually lift the car via suspension as these are not magnetic suspensions.

[@michaels5229]

I purchased a Grizzl-E Level 2 charger on your recommendation and it works perfectly, I am very happy with it. Thank you!

[@EVDude]

Hey! Thanks for watching and great to hear you're enjoying the Grizzl-e charger 😉

[@HM-ul1nr]

There is a difference in the unlock and lock button in the RAV4, it is hard to explain in words but try using your fingers and you will feel the difference No need for lights

[@EVDude]

Hey thanks for watching. It's a personal preference. Try finding the bump in a completely dark setting, unless you know where to put your hands, it's merely impossible. I do manage to figure it out but I'm just pointing out that Toyota cheaped out on this vs they put it in other models.

[@K1600-l7f]

Try a coiled phone cable, perhaps?

[@EVDude]

I ended up getting a wireless android auto dongle. 😅

[@K1600-l7f]

@@EVDude 👍🏻👍🏻

[@marcelmetcalfe6900]

How about defrosting the windshield on your side when it snows or freezing rain because the heating vent stops half the glass on the driver side?

[@EVDude]

It's actually not bad. The vents reach pretty well depending on the angle you set on and there are other vents near the tweeter speakers aiming the top of the driver window as well.

[@AndreyBanyuk]

Getting mine in a week or two in New York. Are these cars manufactured in Japan?

[@EVDude]

Yes they are manufactured in Japan. Most of them from the Nagakusa Plant. When you get your car, you can check your VIN number, the first letter identifies the country, J=Japan.

[@robertbujold1926]

The techno model could have the battery charger plugged to the converter when needed ?

[@tw5683]

I'm going to guess the inability to remotely start the ICE while plugged in is more of a safety feature assuming most people charge inside a closed garage.

[@EVDude]

I think it's a safety feature too. I don't have the need for a remote starter as my R4P is parked inside but I can understand for some folks where it's not possible and they need to leave the car out.

[@sszzzzxx4702]

get a re-tractable USB cable!

[@chuck1658]

Merci ! Super vidéo!!

[@EVDude]

Merci 😁👍🏽

[@saadtheman1]

Toyota’s for life

[@InternetDude]

Thanks, I just got one a few weeks ago here in Sask. Awesome overall vehicle!

[@EVDude]

Congrats on getting the R4P and thanks for watching! 😁 How long is the waiting time in Saskatchewan?

[@InternetDude]

@@EVDude I was waiting since last summer. I test drove the Prius Prime and RAV4 Hybrid and knew the combo would be great.

[@fm-hy2bb]

Great review and a lot of helpful information. Would you still recommend it?

[@EVDude]

I would definitely get one now. I'm even thinking of getting another one but completely EV, looking into the BZ4X. 😉

[@fm-hy2bb]

Great! We just picked up an SE model yesterday and it’s a huge upgrade for my wife, she’s coming from a 2007 CRV. I told her to wait for the BZ4x model, but she did not care for it. Thanks for the videos, I’ve noticed that there is not many actual owner videos that go in depth like your do 👍

[@sail2011]

Thank you for all the informations.

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching!

[@BenfromFlux]

Thank you!

[@stevenlevine1589]

Oh my, you millenials are so spoiled. "It takes nearly a second for the liftgate to open!" I have to unplug my phone to use it outside the car!" Look , thanks for the info, but many of your "complaints" are just the spewing of a spoiled kid.

[@starlankan]

LOVE IT!!! t'es trop bon!! Subscribed for life!! 😍

[@jacquelynnacopoulos1278]

Hello, It is interesting. Cool. 👍

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching 😁

[@barackblows1942]

How did you find one? Did the stealer charge you $10k over MSRP?

[@EVDude]

How did I find a RAV4 Prime? I put in a deposit back in February 2020 😅 and got it in October 2020.

[@barackblows1942]

I never heard of the Prime EV until recently. I just bought a 2021 RAV4 Limited gas only. During the warmer months I don’t daily drive my car and it can sit for weeks. I have two motorcycles to keep me busy. I’m really happy with my RAV4; no complaints.

[@EVDude]

I live in Quebec, Canada. So no dealer didn't charge me over MSRP, they actually cannot. I guess we're lucky in that way. I've read a lot of stories where dealers overcharge a lot in the US.

[@rammanohar8161]

US Toyota dealers are like Drug Dealers. They act like mafia dons, salesman running between you and his manager, and asking for 10K above MSRP

[@daveincanada785]

As a fellow Montrealer and Prius Prime owner, I can relate to this technology being exceptionally good for our climate. I am hoping Toyota offers a full EV in the next year or two. Once you experience EV driving, you never want a gas powered car again. I actually get mad when the engine runs now ! LOL !

[@qqqwark]

Once you experience the EV, you will hate electricity with a passion! I still cringe that people think EV are suitable for anything else but short to low medium distances

[@samanthajames9773]

@@qqqwark how do you explain Tesla with its 363 miles range or more depending on model. Sounds like you have money in gas stocks.

[@qqqwark]

By the following; 363 miles is 180miles one direction which is not much and can’t usually be enough for my working trips which I have depending on projects at least 10-15 times in a month. Further more my drive home is around 850km which would mean that depending on the situation I need to charge 3 times in one day since I also need to stop by the company from where the already set distance is. That takes how much time? When I was in USA the company got a few Tesla’s for as, which was a great idea since the travel time increased for around 40% , and since we are really expensive and the normal travel time is extremely expensive you can imagine how much joy and happiness the customers had knowing they will need to cash out even more because we are playing with electric cars . On top of that, when I am home I like to take weekend trips to Italy around 700km and I had a Tesla for a few weeks, not only it was a hell to charge but the trips made 0 seance since I was basically traveling so much longer it was pointless. As I sad EV are just good for short to medium distances nothing more! Plug in hybrids with a EV range about 100-150km would be the best all around vehicle, you have that EV for your city and grocery drive and an engine when you need to travel!

[@InternetDude]

I went from a Tesla to the R4P due to quality issues. More EV is always better but at some point a 1,000 lb battery and recharging time isn’t that great.

[@rammanohar8161]

You have never driven anything with a Twin Turbo V6 or V8. Have you ever heard of BMW M3

[@DUNGSTA]

Does it really have a 14.5 gallon gas tank?

[@EVDude]

Last time I pumped I put around 50 litres and I had some left in the tank so I believe it is around 15 gallon.

[@NinerK]

Dungsta you get what you get and your RAV4 only uses 10 gallons when the gas light comes on

[@rav4pluginsuomi217]

Great review! You sort of cover it in the video, that the vehicle is biased towards front wheel drive, kicking in the rear wheels only after a delay...any problems at all with traction in the snow?

[@EVDude]

No problem in snow. I've tested in 20-25 cm of fresh snow and ice, car has good balance of traction. It sends the required power to the right wheel when it starts spinning.

[@dmurfie2978]

@@EVDude Just got mine today and you are absolutely right, it has no problem in the snow whatsoever! I was worried about the window and lock lights on the doors, but on my version these are backlit...not sure if that is a running change, or because I bought the vehicle in Europe!

[@kasshyaparangari7377]

Great video ! True complete review - very useful for someone thinking of buying Prime.. Good job !

[@EVDude]

Thanks for watching and for your feedback!

[@ravinderminhas8253]

Out of 30 minutes, the camera is on your face for 25 minuets. Review is about the car or your looks? Boring.

[@EVDude]

I appreciate the honesty and feedback. 👍🏽 By curiosity, did you learn a thing or two from this video or was it a complete waste of your time? (besides me being in the frame all the time).

[@EVDude]

If you want more camera time on the car, here's a complete walkaround : kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6uXeZ6OntJ8e7M

[@mitchellsmith4601]

Of course you have no problem with heating, you have a heat pump. The RAV4 Primes in the U.S. don’t have heat pumps.

[@EVDude]

Are you sure of this? I haven't checked if the US model is different but I would be very surprised if the US model doesn't come with it especially for the northern states where the weather is similar to ours.

[@tommihelich2613]

The RAV4 Prime does too have the heat pump in the US.

[@tonyrock5313]

"Oh look at me m. I bought a rav4. Big whoops!