We Take The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid To The LIMIT Off-Road Deep In The Mountains

[@gt4ever859]

Very impressive. BTW the eCVT in this vehicle is very different from a traditional mechanical CVT with belts and variable sized pulleys. It uses a planetary gear set and 2 electric motors in the transaxle and software to achieve a CVT effect with out all of the downsides of traditional CVT.

[@christopherwilson9140]

For a 41mpg family car on street tires that was amazing.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Truly.

[@christopherwilson9140]

My wife has this exact car. It's a hybrid xse. She gets between 43 and 46mpg in traffic around 495 in DC.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@christopherwilson9140 Yes, Toyota Hybrids tend to beat mpg ratings while other brands often fall short .

[@Kdm702]

@Pedro Jr Collado I have this car, limited version. I can get 44 in the city, 39 hwy.

[@CumBrianFries]

@Pedro Jr Collado Spoken like someone who obviously doesn't own this car. Toyota, unlike Volkswagen, often understate their fuel economy estimates.

[@r6TrdSlow]

Really digging this video format with the swapping between the roller test and off road. Excellent job y’all. Love watching this channel progress and watching y’all try new things, it’s a huge part of why I follow y’all. Not to mention that y’all seem like people I’d want to have a beer with

[@quadpit]

I agree and thanks Toyota for allowing them to review the RAV4 in this way which is definitely more extreme than 99.99% of buyers for this car will ever do.

[@SeriesofTubes222]

"Y'all" count: four. Impressive.

[@r6TrdSlow]

SeriesOfTubes y’all

[@jdubdoubleu]

Y'all are great! 😂

[@r6TrdSlow]

jdubdoubleu Y’ALL

[@roxyh5273]

I just got a Rav4 2019 Hybrid XLE and had to test out it's road chops just this last weekend. I was trying to get to a campground when Google Maps informed me there were road closures. It gave me an alternate route which I did NOT know was going to include gnarly dirt roads no car has any business being on. The road was soft clay, pocked with giant holes, steep in some places with sand traps in other places. I was white knuckling it the whole time, but the car did beautifully! I got through the roads from hell and got on my merry way.

[@travelinben1966]

Roxy H Good to hear!I’m looking to buy the same vehicle!!!

[@hieuhughesle-au9884]

Google did the same thing to me on my way back to LA from Vegas! Except I was in a fwd sedan and after seeing a Nissan rogue, 2 Toyota Corolla's, and Mercedes sedan get stuck in the muddy sand/soil I dipped back to the longer route...dont expect google to help you if you leave at 12pm along with holiday traffic from Vegas to LA unless you wanted to take an 8 hours trip that should be 4 hours long..

[@法球功圣宗]

can you tell me how much your car? I looking to buy the same vehicle!!!, thank you!

[@leonardwang3406]

@@hieuhughesle-au9884 where is this route? is it from jean to primm?

[@RyanChun]

Glad to hear the XLE trim made it! I know there are differences between the XSE and XLE trims regarding suspension.

[@StubProductions]

The RAV4 “CVT” is not a normal CVT. It is the hybrid drive train which is an ingenious use of two electric motors and planetary gears. It’s brilliant engineering.

[@alanj7306]

I thought it actually performed pretty darn well, given the type of vehicle it is. It’s not a Jeep, nor does it claim to be one. I would never expect it to tow like a pickup truck either. Solid off road performance in my opinion. Seems like a good vehicle overall.

[@valdius85]

1. I am very impressed with RAV4 hybrid. The "Trail" button does its job - the rear side wheel (the one on rollers) was not spinning in the last test. It provides a software-based lock - good enough for my needs. The next step is a stronger rear motor and a bigger battery to deliver instantaneous power without front spinning. 2. RAV4 H. has eCVT. It is different than standard CVT. Please mention that as it is actually completely different from the standard belt/chain type CVT. 3. Great video ;)

[@lukeman91]

I would say that the tires are the weakest link here.

[@williamconnell6541]

Please recommend tyres as i have heard this before even on the Toyata prime.

[@James-il3tq]

@@williamconnell6541 Whatever all terrain tires you can get in your size. On tirerack.com I can find 2 sets of AT tires for my 235/55R19 wheels (upgraded to my hybrid XSE to 19" rims)

[@pravur]

Lower at least the air pressure of the tyres if you drive on the offroad

[@stevenv2190]

He should have used the tires from the 2020 RAV4 Adventure - At least the OEM is a variant of the Falken Wildpeak AT Trail

[@FlexSZN23]

@@williamconnell6541 All terrain all season tires would be the best.

[@amadeo5414]

Finally a review of the model that does not only talk about the inside and the technicalities! It was put to the test in real life situations! Great job!

[@rudystraight1750]

Real life? Lol it wont save u when UN troops come to put u sheeps in fema camps

[@nickgee7291]

@@rudystraight1750 wat?

[@nickgee7291]

I see quebec, u give thumbs up!

[@hereigoagain5050]

Hey Tommy, thanks for sticking with the slip tests. Geeks like me like them. The mix of controlled tests vs real world demos is a great idea.

[@stephenfiore9960]

I like the tape on wheel idea-Super Geeky like me

[@edwinyurigattorno]

Remember the RAV4 it's not for Climbing, the meaning of this video it's to demonstrate "IF" for any reason you need to do it! And the RAV4 did it. 💪🏼

[@jerryrn5571]

Edwin Gattorno yea, I think some people are missing that point. If that’s what’s they want? By all means get a 4 Runner! My friend takes his off roading but that’s what they are built for.

[@JSmithski]

Also, on proper off road tires it would pull even better.

[@salemsaberhagen8390]

@@jerryrn5571 4runner much more expensive

Especially with all season garbage tires

@@salemsaberhagen8390 buy a used one and you can get a 2019 TRD for the same price as this. How is that more expensive.

[@audrunasgruslys9243]

At 13:00 the issue was not that the breaks were bo engaging - the back wheel in rollers was not even turning. The issue was that no power was evidently sent to the back axis!

[@ninjazzrhythm400]

I wish they made this video with an actual off road tires vs the stock tires, it would have been a great comparison going up that trail

[@jomaha9227]

Even my Tacoma TRD Off-Road it was night and day difference switching from the factory BFG AT Adventure-Kevlar (good on-road, terrible off-road) to some more serious Duratracs. Every single low-traction condition the difference was so drastic, and while I could get most places with the factory tires once I swapped to the Duratracs I had so much more confidence that I wasn't going to get stuck when I'd go out hunting/camping and get back to my truck after some rainfall or snowfall changed the trail conditions.

[@Upliftyourbrothers]

And more than a 9.3 gallon tank! Lol

[@IrishCarbombs85]

I had a 2009 Rav4. Once I swapped the tires, that thing went just about anywhere we wanted and still averaged 27 mpg. Ground clearance was the only issue.

[@boxr_4214]

@Guardian Leopard i mean you don't really buy a rav4 to go up rocky trails. i mean those trails were really steep, based on the trees that was probably at least a 35% grade/

[@nickardecky7404]

YES! Also... not a single person talking about tire pressure as well. Coming from 30+ on the highway aired down to 20, or lower if you're confident, will help any tire. Especially a wider offroad tire. Less air allows more tire to be flat on the ground. Easy way to get traction.

[@crispinswainstonharrison9042]

I changed my 19” to 17” Michelin’s A/T tires on day 1 of ownership. Best thing I could have done.

[@mountainhobo]

10:28 "This RAV4 has a CVT" - No. It has an eCVT, mechanically different animal altogether.

[@toyotaprius79]

They'll never know..

[@Lucky8s]

@@toyotaprius79 I've watched over 20 RAV4 hybrid reviews because I am interested in buying one, and not a single reviewer (big or small) have distinguished it.

[@ronaldspins]

It is a planetary gearset

[@evanwynne5293]

Two motors work with the engine through a power split device for front wheel drive. For the AWD they just add another motor on the back to drive the rear wheels. It's called MGR

[@fry5family]

@@evanwynne5293 I want to buy this hybrid to dolly tow behind my RV. We boondocks on a lot of forest preserve lands and want the vehicle ground clearance. Since the rear wheels are not mechanically coupled and "coast" when slowing down, can it be towed with the front wheels on a tow dolly?

[@katiematten4452]

Wow! What a helpful video, the way you've explained the systems, compared the slip test to the natural terrain. Impressive. Although I won't purposely be pushing my future Rav 4 into terrains like these, it's great to know that its capable if I do find myself in a hairy situation. You guys rock!

[@TBISYTC]

FINALLY! I've been waiting for decent review like this of the 019 rav4 off road. Sure it's not the Adventure but this will do. THANK YOU!

[@ChrisPepin]

I'm loving my new RAV4 XSE. While I don't plan to take it off road, I'm looking forward to using it in the snow.

[@soulofnature6537]

Looks like the only problem are tires

[@jdubdoubleu]

Tires are everything. Snow tires suck in rain though.

[@vincentfigueroa9174]

Just bought one today and totally looking forward to snowboarding season.

[@James-il3tq]

@@jdubdoubleu Michelin xice xi2 do exceptionally well in rain and slush. Directionally tread channels water out in a hurry and as a bonus 40,000 mile warranty and impressive handling of for winter tire (almost feels like all season on dry pavement).

[@TacoMonster4eva]

@@vincentfigueroa9174 Guys, how did the truck do on snow?

[@MohCars_]

Awesome vid! One suggestion though, agreed you can't mash the throttle all the way up the trail, but it is essential to keep the momentum going, which it seems only Nathan has a good grasp on. Not letting off the gas is different from flooring it, and not any more harmful or risky. Just my 2 cents

[@chubbysumo2230]

also, with this, its a CVT hybrid, meaning that you need to let the traction control logic take care of the forward momentum. IE, you actually have to keep the throttle down and let the computer do the work, otherwise, it won't have the time to actually make the adjustments and move you.

[@shanelen]

Outstanding video Tommy, i have been employed by Toyota for 15 years, worked at the Georgetown plant (Camry and Lexus) and now, at the Indiana plant (Highlander). That's a great real world test you put the hybrid through. I drive a 2011 rav4 and we have been very happy with it's toughness and gracefulness.

[@matthewlydon5772]

40 MPG is "pretty good"? dude, be more honest! What other crossover Mid-Size SUV even comes close to this? lol

[@Diggy77]

all of the European ones lol

[@EpicLemonMusic]

M. Dimitrovski you do realize miles are different in Europe? American Mile is longer than an English Mile lol. Please list the European sub that gets near this?

[@EpicLemonMusic]

@@baums547 yes sorry that is what I meant

[@你是國王]

My 2020 crv 1.5l turbo

[@marcuslang6153]

@@你是國王 more like 30?

[@Metalbass1979]

On one of my many trips to Kenya, East Africa, I rented a 2003 Rav4. After hours of driving it on the beautiful highway, my GPS took us to a dirt road that is very close to what is on this video. We were too far along on this road to turn back and had no choice but to try to make it. To my surprise, we made it and that sucker totally changed my opinion about Toyota forever.

[@andersonrodriguez8258]

At least the transmission didn’t overheat like the huyndai kona 😂

[@MrMrsregor]

not yet, give it another year or two

[@americansniper1641]

@@MrMrsregor its not a Ford, gm, or FIAT (Chrysler, Dodge, ram)

[@dennisgt479]

Or the honda ridgeline

[@MemphisMojo15s]

@@MrMrsregor 🤦😂 what a joke...

[@JadeGeminiM390]

Something that Toyota does differently on their CVT is it has a lock in first gear that goes up to about 30 miles an hour, so this makes it where you are using a gear for direct torque and greater reliability.

[@tygasway1476]

at 4:06 If you notice you can see the tire touching the side of the roller bar and gets grip otherwise it would just keep spinning. I watched a lot of videos of the RAV4 on rollers its always the case it gets grip once the car moves to the side and touches the bar or the roller and finds grip.

[@kozzmak]

Why not make a button that makes the electric motor spin both rear wheels, like a fake rear locking diff

[@wheresthepictureidk2817]

Biro Kozzma because that’s pointless when the computer can decide what wheel needs traction anyways.

[@oceanzu6585]

only one motor for the rear, it's a open diff

[@globalmobile017]

Why not have dual electric motors for the rear

[@Agent.K.]

Where's the picture? Idk Toyota crawl control works well. And Land Rover is probably the most advanced system.

[@oregoncannabisgrowsreviews8271]

@@wheresthepictureidk2817 But this video shows the computer isn't able to make that decision.

[@EarthREALTOR]

I love my 2018 Rav 4 Limited Hybrid AWD. I am in Central Texas, just north of Austin TX. We had a weird Polar Vortex Winter Storm Feb 2021 with snow and ice. Very rare for here. I was very impressed with how it handled driving in the snow and icy roads. I never slipped and certainly did not get stuck. This is my 5th Toyota and 3rd Toyota Hybrid. I love it!

[@jedironin380]

A friend of mine has a 2016 RAV4 Hybrid. He likes it very much, but doesn't try to go off-roading with it. It does get used on Pennsylvania hills in ALL kinds of weather, including snow and ice. It works very well!

[@oddities-whatnot]

jedironin380 and im sure it does a decent job of it in winter, but your friend is right by not going offroading, it wasnt designed for that. Nobody would take an Audi S3 off roading just because it has AWD, yet people think these urban SUVs can do it !

[@timfreeman7034]

I have this exact car (except in magnetic gray). I love the XSE. I bought her three months ago when they first came out and already have over 7k miles. Looks decent. Tons of storage. Can’t beat the mpg for a car like this. Zippy. And apparently it can climb mountains. Who knew? I have a 4Runner too, but will only be using it for the more extreme conditions. Averaging 38 mpg with a lot of Interstate driving. Much better around town. No serious complaints except my right leg bumps the center console, which is a little annoying, but I’m getting used to it. And the gas light comes on with a third of a tank left (guess they don’t trust us Americans to not run out of fuel). I liked the looks of the Adventure, but couldn’t justify buying one without a supremely better mpg than my 4Runner. I’ve come to love it. It’s quieter and quicker than the Adventure I test drove. Not perfect, but I can’t think of a car I’d rather have as a daily driver. The JBL audio is pretty good too if you listen to podcasts and such. If Subaru had a hybrid Forester I would have considered that. But they don’t. I’m in love with this thing. If you get one of the hybrid ones, spring for the XSE instead of the XLE or the LE if you have the budget. It’s just a nicer car, and in my opinion looks a hell of a lot better with the two-tone roof. Thanks for the video.

[@1leggeddog]

I don't get how you guys proved that the trail mode was worse in the roller test and then talked about how the trail mode was the important bit 2 minutes after... i think that the format of the video was a bit reversed on that part

[@victoreous626]

Real World vs Lab Test.

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

@@victoreous626 Right, but the edit made it very confusing.

[@devinespinosa1923]

Karine Mallet not to mention when he was off-roading and taking that hard line you could see one rear wheel spinning like crazy and the other one was just sitting there like where’s the “AWD” what happened to sending power to the wheels with traction.

[@KevAlberta]

Devin Espinosa all wheel drive is not what you want for off roading. For serious wheeling you want 4 wheel drive lock

[@devinespinosa1923]

Kev Yes I am very aware, but they test and advertise as such and I think it’s a little quirky don’t you think?

[@DevanHoffer]

It's an Ecvt. Not a CVT. They are completely different. Planetary gear set. Not a band.

[@lalljp]

This shows how much hybrid tech can benefit offroad vehicles. It's a shame the 4x4 community is so traditionalist

[@sc3ku]

We are not far from the EV F-150 and others. Once those arrive, they will gain rapid acceptance after people see what truck platform hybrids can do

[@lalljp]

@benz merc a hybrid 4Runner or Tacoma would be no more complex than a standard version... You know how much electronics are in those vehicles? With hybrid tech you could totally get rid of the front differential and driveshaft and transfer case, and have it be pure electric. Then add an electric motor between the engine and transmission to power the rear

[@godismerciful6200]

Benz merc, Agreed. Old is Gold

[@oxi_tyxaios]

not all of us. My main gripe is that all modern "SUVs", and especially those coming to Europe, are all FWD-based. FWD is terrible uphill. And then the torque that arrives to the rear wheels in most cases is not enough for the job. I drive a 27yo Vitara 1.6, which is a RWD-first 4X4. In 99.9% of dry off-roading I don't even need to engage 4H or even 4L, because the car just climbs along with the engine purring at low revs. No dramas at all. My only complaint with my Vitara is fuel consumption and of course comfort (when compared to the RAV4). So I'd take an (almost) equally-capable but fuel-efficient car any day. But they just don't exist in our days (at least in Europe)

[@BrendanPJames]

I have an 06 Highlander Hybrid with a similar AWD setup except it's 200hp from an electric motor + V6 up front and 68hp pure electric motor powering the rear. People hate on the system because the front and back wheels aren't mechanically connected, but it's always worked out great for me. It doesn't have a trail button, but 68hp from all electric gives great torque to power through slippage. I'm not an offroader, but I've had to take it on similar rough trails and in deep snow and I've never had an issue. The traction control is extremely aggressive at cutting and redirecting power and can't be turned off, so it's really bad in situations that require letting the wheels spin, but really good at everything else.

[@pppam]

Congrats, for the scientific approach. Very nice to know that a hybrid can get that far on a rocky trail like this!

[@Honeyman76]

Especially on the street tires (stock) that came with it. Actually very impressive.

[@tundatime]

That rear axle just seems to engage whenever it wants on the roller test imaging being stuck in the snow and the rear wheels just not doing anything.

[@Pinoyako11705]

Wow this is actually extremely impressive for a car that gets 40MPG. Looks like adding a lift kit, A/T tires, and a skid plate would make it able to do all the “off-roaming” that 90% might ever need

[@alphonsusho8962]

Yep overlanding is becoming popular and most of the time it’s flat roads without actual roads where 2 wheels are off the ground such as those that many with 4Runners and Jeeps would use

[@leighannebrown-pedersen7536]

I have this...XSE silver and everything...Love it so much!

[@nlpnt]

No surprise you're a fan of the hybrid/electric-based AWD. Electric motors aren't affected by altitude.

[@Eayala17]

You mean ALL electric motors lol

[@Oldcrazy82]

We rented a rav4 in Fairbanks Alaska a few weeks ago. This car went everywhere, even with street tires. Very impressed with this vehicle.

[@frankhicks6412]

Would like to see same test with reasonable tires.

[@Davido50]

Nah. We drove em all an chose the Ford Escape Hybrid. Better performance. Sportier driving feel. We even like the looks better. Test drive them!

[@Tommy-gk6bh]

@@Davido50 ok but we would like to see the same test with capable tires. If you are considering a Toyota, chances are you are not going to change your mind over a Ford.

[@Mountain_Made]

I have a built 4 runner with about everything that you can think of in terms of upgrades for off roading and overlanding. Chins lake Colorado has one of the more difficult trails and we were thinking about checking it out. Right when we got to the start of "Jeep Road" a older stock Rav 4 came clunking down the trail. There is barely a road in most parts and you literally have to drive from one rock to another, sometimes with only 2 tires touching. Toyotas are amazing. Been thinking about that a few years now so we just purchased a 2021 Rav 4 XLE premium in the Lunar Rock color for my gf. Freaking stoked!

[@jbickley7791]

Awesome for a hybrid! Way to go Toyota!

[@rubenbraekman4515]

This AWD system is 1000% better than the previous gen, I'm FOR SURE going to buy one of these for the right price used. They're unfortunately about 50k euro (about 56k dollar) new here...

[@flitttprisss443]

Would like to see how this Rav 4 Hybrid does on snow.

[@Kenzientk]

It does WONDERFUL

[@p9r4ex8dyk]

McKenzie Wight do you have a video in the snow?

[@p9r4ex8dyk]

King Andrew do you have a video in the snow?

[@p9r4ex8dyk]

King Andrew thanks so much. I'll check it out! I'm considering this vehicle as I would like to head up to the mountains from time to time to go snow tubing.

[@p9r4ex8dyk]

King Andrew any link to the video?

[@angrypanda69]

Very impressed. I don't think Toyota ever envisioned the Rav4 to be a true off roader but it has proven me wrong.

[@AndrewGroat7]

Great video! Like many others, I too like the controlled and then real world comparisons. I would really like to see a rav4 adventure model do the same test and trail. RAV4’s are more capable than what most people think. I own a first gen and followed my friends down trails, they were in Jeeps, Xterras and the like. It took the abuse well, was crazy reliable, and just sipped fuel. Finally retired it to road duty at 320 000 kms (still sees some muddy dirt roads though back at the farm).

[@hereigoagain5050]

Great video! I bought a RAV4 Hybrid XSE - same as your tester. I trust it makes it out of the sub division after a snow storm! Rocky top - I'll hike it.

[@kx7kx782]

I did the same and got one: )

[@Erin-Thor]

Without a low range transfer case, that’s insanity. I’ve travelled a bit, and have rented a bunch of SUV’s and 4x4’s to go up mountain fire roads to get to cellular and microwave towers. I’ve overheated more 4x4 trucks and SUV’s more times than I can count. A low range transfer is a necessity IMHO.

[@thehayman7352]

Anything more then the typical fire road needs a low range

[@Erin-Thor]

Umbrace Titan - Absolutely.

[@TobyCostaRica]

If they doubled the size of the motor and gave it the ability to lock up I think it would cover a lot of situations. Can't beat electric torque, Im curious how a Rivian does when TFL goes their hands on one.

[@thehayman7352]

2A556FMJ yea you can’t, but in most cases all that torque isn’t necessary. The torque of the 4Runner is enough for everything offroad. Electric torque will be good for towing

[@mikekuczynski1552]

We have a 2019 Hybrid RAV-4 and live in Montana and use it just like you did in this demonstration. The one thing you mentioned in the beginning of the video that you did not at the end are the tires and the difference they can make. I put a set of Falken Wild peak A/Ts on ours and as you could guess it makes all the difference in the world when it comes to traction. We had a Prius and we’re looking for something with better capabilities that got good mileage and the RAV4 fit the bill . I have to say I have been pleasantly surprised at how capable the RAV4 Hybrid is you find yourself taking it to places you probably shouldn’t but with the clearance you have it really expands the capabilities. We have never seen 40mpg but do average 37mpg still not bad . Thanks for the video it was very well done and really highlights the off-road capabilities. Happy Trails

[@JuanChavez-yr1rz]

Do you know if the 2019 rav4 xse has a lithium hybrid battery

[@mirandathompkins3567]

Is there a video where you put the Adventure model through this same test? I would love a side by side comparison!

[@pingchen5291]

Miranda Thompkins I wonder how it would do, because the hybrid destroys it on asphalt

[@justsomepleb.8360]

Love how you guys actually took it off road unlike some others who go on a fire road and flip their bleep over a pothole, then say the car isn’t capable.

[@bogusfranz1503]

Toss some Yokohama Geolanders on it and you've got a decent car with some reasonable off highway capability.

[@tylerissla7139]

The reason you slip a bit more in trail mode is because of the fact that offroad, you're going to want some slip for the purposes of maintaining speed and keeping momentum. Say for example if normal mode is engaged and you're not moving, the TCS has a harder time moving you from a stop in mud if it engages immediately, due to higher rolling resistance. BUT if the front wheels spin for a bit first, then the back wheels push you, that's a better option if you're starting in heavy mud or water due to less resistance coming from the front wheels.

[@CarsAndZebras]

Tommy kind of reminds me of a de-tuned Idubbbz.

[@L0LrevneD]

Do you think the AWD system in the gas-only model (the basic one, not the torque vectoring system) works better off road than the hybrid? Or, do you think the difference is negligible? I’ll be working in the mountains next summer, and need a car that can do well in mild to moderate off roading, as well as snow.

[@jmichael6931]

The gas AWD system is not as good as the hybrid. The torque vectoring of TRD/Adventure is best with the hybrid AWD slightly behind in ability followed by the gas. Anything that qualifies as legitimate "moderate" off-roading is going to be extremely hard for the Rav4 no matter how built up.

[@L0LrevneD]

@@jmichael6931 Good points! Thank you

[@kwil77]

you have to get the Rav4 trail or LTD to get Active Torque Control System the hydrid Rav4 does not have it.

[@COSolar6419]

Just much better gas mileage.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

Why do you let off the gas just before the rear wheel with traction begins to engage? You have to keep on the throttle and let the system work. It won't be instant.

[@alvilla701]

Not bad for a crossover that gets 40 mpg combined, now let's se the Rav4 adventure

[@mitchellsteindler]

@@Gubers okay...sounds good to me.

[@Transpower]

I think this is the most professional review Tommy has done....

[@TheUnsureFox]

Very professional review, Tommy! I was a bit shocked that the car performed worse in Trail Mode than Normal on the first roller test. Keep up the good videos, fellas!

[@drew5337]

Id say it wasn't "worse" and that trail mode allows for some wheel spin up, which can be handy when in low traction situations.

[@IvanToman]

I guess that trail mode does not "improve" electronic diff lock in any active way, but actually allows more wheel spin so that effectively EDL can work harder, in theory. Not sure if it helps much but... probably most heavy difference is somewhat more rear bias with trail more engaged.

[@criticaltinker]

@blacknester can you explain the planetary gearset?

[@MarcillaSmith]

@@criticaltinker The planetary gear set works as a power split device. That is to say that when there is a differential in power applied to the transmission versus power applied to the ground, rather than the difference being dispersed through a clutch, that differential power can be split away from the power sent to the wheels, and instead is sent to MG1 (the smaller motor-generator) where it is converted into electricity which is used to add charge to the HV (high voltage) traction battery. In this way, the power is recouped to be used later, rather than being used to eat up a clutch that much faster - basically a win-win! If you've ever been in a Toyota with HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive), there's a monitor on the dash where it shows where power is coming from and going to as the vehicle makes decisions about how to make best use of available power. I am a big fan of HSD, if I hadn't made that obvious ;)

[@user-Moonhoney]

Does this vehicle activate rear motor on low battery condition? In my region, dealer does not recommend towing with this crossover..

[@phenamenol]

So the awd system of the rav 4 is basically just to go over speed bumps and give you extra grip in the road ? The Subaru awd system seem to be the best on the market for real world situations… thanks for showing us what the vehicle can / cannot do .. yes I get it .. it was not designed for serious off roading

[@avpr1c]

Modern day journalism 9:43 “impressive results” 10:12 “it’s definitely struggling”

[@donwarner6925]

Tedro Peders it impressive for what it is. What’s wrong with either of those statements?

[@deejayimm]

Gotta say, Tommy, you have been improving alot at this presenter thing, and I have to say, you seem like you found your comfort level with it, and your turning out some very enjoyable work. Good job.

[@alfonsowadeyua5293]

In fact, because of Tommy, I now watch TFL!

[@zennoodle]

I watched the whole thing from beginning to end. Very well done. Love it! The RAV4 is begging for skid plates and a slight lift. Even Subaru has 8.7" of ground clearance. I wonder how the batteries would would when driving in deep puddles and shallow river crossings.

[@KznnyL]

The battery is under the rear seat, so unless the actual cabin was submerged it would do fine.

[@nofyfb123]

It's NOT CVT - it's eCVT which is a completely different animal!

[@tritchie6272]

I'd really like to see if the Adventure model would be better like I think it would be. Although I gotta admit to being really surprised at how well the Hybrid did.I wasn't expecting it to get beyond the first hard test.

[@TactileCoder]

It is _NOT_ a CVT! It's a geared power split device.

[@Steve-wo9uy]

with those tires, it is really impressive!

[@alg003]

The one thing I don’t like about this particular model is it has an all black interior and the roof if black but you can’t have the main paint as black which is not a big deal but it would be very nice to have an all black exterior

[@keithcerce8445]

4x battle, any vehicle you desire, but you only get 8oz of gasoline. That rav4 could win.

[@justinluttrell1769]

Subaru Forester could take it. Forrester has been mastering the AWD and good fuel economy combo for over a decade.

[@wolvesdengaming4844]

Yup as someone else has already said the forester would be right next to it they are the only two though

[@James-rd9mo]

Forester.. Good fuel economy. Rav4 hybrid.. Superior fuel economy.

[@danielhall697]

@@James-rd9mo **Crosstrek hybrid has entered the chat**

[@justinluttrell1769]

@@James-rd9mo Any hybrid will be superior...in the city anyway. Highway fuel economy ain't much better than the regular gas version thanks to aerodynamics and all. Can't beat physics.

[@TheBeowulf55]

Cool vid I appreciate the fact that you guys are testing less obvious vehicles. I love big trucks and SUVs but don't love the mpg. The Rivian is not a real thing and most likely too expensive for me for at least the next 3 -5 years so do you have any suggestions for actually capable off road vehicles that don't need to be filled up every 10 seconds. Also very aware of Subarus but looking for anything else out there old or new. Thanks!

[@PatrickRich]

I am waiting for the adventure or trd model on a trail. I wish Toyota would work harder to program their RDM to luckup more actively off-road.

[@AWDfreak]

Toyota knows how to do it right, but they always skimp out and half-ass it on the Crossovers they sell. I can tell they've made a significant improvement to the off-road capabilities of the RAV4, but the same level of intelligent programming that you expect from the same company that made A-TRAC and a Torsen AWD system just aren't fully implemented.

[@dimlizh]

Hey, I like the way you did this video. Test and the practical mixed up which explained this new rav4's 4 wheels really clearly. Good Job Man.

[@styledliving]

3 linches longer than a 3rd generation 4runner. waaaaaaaaaaay less capable. The irony is that most 4x4 trails don't need a lot of speed and don't even NEED 4x4. They just need a vehicle with a locking rear differential and low range for the rear axle. In the case of the Rav4 with an electric motor, low range isn't as important since it gets 100% of the torque from the beginning. However, because the Rav4 Hybrid has a conventional ICE powering the front wheels, the rear motor must have its capability detuned to match the front drivetrain. A manual locking rear differential or selectable brake bias controller for traction control would make this Rav4 (with proper tires) climb up even difficult trails. --To the TFL Guys, I've been watching your channel for a few years now, I'm really happy with how you've progressed in your test suite. It's very telling that you will even go out to buy a car when manufacturers like Subaru shut you down because you actually test their vehicles in realistic environments. Definitely keep up the good work. Let me know when you guys decide to do a review on tricked out off-road camping rigs. ;)

[@kagitsune]

This comment is so dense (to me, a car stuff noob) but also incredibly helpful. Thank you!!

[@briank10101]

Actually an electric motor powers the front wheels too. Technically, full torque from rest is available to both front and rear wheels, now whether Toyota has a software algorithm that delays torque to rears after fronts slip a certain amount I'm not sure. In the Highland Hybrid AWDi, it always puts torque to the rear from a stop regardless of traction and at several other key times, rapid blip on the accelerator, turning.

[@fiveowaf454]

I watched my neighbor having problems getting in his driveway in the snow the other day. The problem was we live on a steep hill and he had to go sideways on the slope to go into the drive, the problem was the front wheels would spin before the rear engaged, which then made the front end slide down the hill and by the time the rear kicked in he wasn't heading for the driveway anymore. I had no such problems with my truck and its full time 4 wheel drive, so how AWD operates can certainly be an issue.

[@DavidWebbWriter]

Thanks for the review. I just bought the LE version of this, and happy to see how it would perform in situations I'll never take it into... it's just too pretty ;-). Interestingly, the first roller test, where Trail mode gave the worse result, is actually Trail mode working as it should... that is, allowing for more slip. Anyway, I also wonder if the LE, XLE or Limited versions would offer better off-road performance as they have a more conventional AT tire, rather than the sporty tires on the XSE? Final thoughts... I LOVE my 2019 Rav4 Hybrid. Currently getting 5.6L/100km... word.

[@beyondcleon]

An "AWD" button that activates all 4 wheels at once in low speeds would be interesting in case the computer struggles to find the right power distribution if needed. Overall very cool performance. Tires would've given it an even bigger boost

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

Bring back the FJ Cruiser as an all electric AWD badass.

[@MarcillaSmith]

I would take that over the CyberTruck

[@robertkwalz]

You have my vote for CEO of Toyota

[@mauriciomaldonado3439]

I have the XLE model and I'm in love with it. Great Video!

[@crsantin]

Nice vehicle. Nice test. Those tires have no business being off the pavement though lol.

[@ivn9577]

Took ours offroading to get to a campsite last week and aside from being on edge due to having the OEM all-seasons on there we got there pretty much no problem. I probably won't take it on a trail that aggressive ever again, but I wouldn't hesitate to use it in a pinch.

[@MetaView7]

I am impressed. Can't wait for the new Highlander Hybrid/RX450h.

[@rightlanehog3151]

The world is waiting.

[@Maistro69]

Tommy, if you look it up, the Trail mode on that thing is designed to allow more slip, not less slip. I dont know why they did that, but that "worse" result did exactly what it was engineered to do.

[@supun6806]

Great video Tommy! Can you try the same course with the adventure trim level for the RAV 4? I'm curious to see if the different AWD system and the extra ground clearance will make a difference. Thanks!

[@harsiese]

I really enjoy this review format. Switching back and forth. I usually always click on Tommy's reviews, because he's a hottie, but this one was especially great!

[@aaronosborn7395]

I’d really like to trade in my Prius and get one of these. it’s like a Prius on steroids haha

[@DallenPearson]

Aaron Osborn that’s exactly what I did. I traded my 2014 Prius C in for the 2020 Hybrid XLE and it was a great decision. Highly recommend.

[@rabbitruck]

We have a Prius and RAV hybrid. The RAV is a -lot- quicker 0-60. The Prius gets 10-15 mpg better depending on conditions. The RAV hauls more stuff. RAV mpg is great for what it is, but can't hold a candle to the Prius, really, in this regard. I actually prefer the size of the Prius for a daily driver, but the power of the RAV is nice.

[@DallenPearson]

syncro87 yeah I do miss my Prius C mileage for sure but I do like having significantly more room with MPG that is still good.

[@flakeu]

@@DallenPearson I also own a Prius C and was wondering how worst is the milage in real life on the RAV4? Around 10mpg?

[@bogdanmongol9518]

@@flakeu 26 mpg, the worst case. 140-150km/h or 86-90 miles per hour on highway in Europe.

[@AWDfreak]

This is why I subscribe to your channels, because you actually test these new crossovers road. Keep it up, I'm pleasantly surprised that a Toyota RAV4 made it up such obstacles. It didn't do that great, but it made it. Passable, but barely.

[@mojavisanz597]

Very impressive video guys. Great job 👍🏼

[@timmusaka9577]

One lucky person will buy this unit after your journey.

[@anantdabholkar685]

Tommy, you are a very smart kid when it comes to 4WD off-roading. Really enjoy your videos!

[@stuckinthepastproductions4329]

I like how the RAV4 took a knee on the tree stump while surveying the mountaintop.

[@7g6_66]

Love this type of video, every crossover should get one of these

[@ahutsell27]

Would love to see the new Woodland Edition tested!

[@bobmarley6161]

I really like the styling of the new model

[@thefranchise713]

Hoping you can get a standard gas RAV4 and compare, same test. I haven't been sold on the Toyota eAWD bits and this proved it--good video. Hopefully Toyota provides another press vehicle for that test.

[@keithnewton8981]

You have road tyres on that car so it's done extremely well

[@joshk6066]

Dude if it had better tires it would have cleared that tire easily! That shit is impressive!

[@barrydraper]

That's pretty impressive for the class of vehicle it is. I'd be more interested in seeing how the non hybrid version does. Gotta love Toyota, capable and reliable...

[@jmichael6931]

Exactly what I wanted to see! I have a Woodland's edition being built and was curious about the capabilities of the hybrid. Admittedly, a trail like this will be the very far end of where I take it. Seeing this performance and knowing I'll be using Falken Wildpeaks from the start gives me confidence.

[@playforfun88]

Toyota made a wonderful design and top quality would like to have this car for sure love it👍

[@SMc-in5bc]

For some reason this video autoplayed while I was working on my truck. I was stuck under the truck so all I could do is hear the audio for this video. When I got up to look at the screen the dude in the video looked E X A C T L Y like how I pictured from his voice... down to his fake Groucho nose-glasses combo and gesticulations. Bravo dude!!!!!