TWO TOYOTA RAV4 PRIMES? FULL OWNER'S REPORT AFTER 6 MONTHS - Tale of Two Primes

[@bobm21]

I have had my 2023 RAV4 Prime for 3 months so far and I must say that the build quality is truly outstanding, not a single rattle or squeak, steering wheel is centered and the car tracks dead straight, all panel gaps inside and out are spot on. Quality built in Japan.

[@badimpulses17]

I used to own a Model Y sold it and got the Rav4 Prime. To me a PHEV is better than a full EV.

[@toronado455]

Because mobile generator? Generate your own electricity anywhere?

[@sammyjammy6647]

I’ll do you one better. A regular hybrid is all you need ;)

[@badimpulses17]

@@sammyjammy6647 A regular hybrid can't go months with filling gas. A PHEV can. So how is a regular hybrid better than a PHEV?

[@sammyjammy6647]

@@badimpulses17 Much cheaper I’m getting a RAV4 XLe hybrid for 31,000 out the door. I don’t have to monkey with a charger 🔌. It gets close to 600 miles tank and I’m good with that. You probably have to wait a year for the prime and they’re marked up over 50 K. So good luck catching up on me with fuel savings. You’re paying 20,000 more than me

[@badimpulses17]

@@sammyjammy6647 I'm flexing.

[@Mntoyaz]

The wife and I just received our 2022 RAV4 Prime XSE in Blizzard White about a month ago. Ours did not include Premium/Technology package. We are extremely happy with our purchase. Great comparison video!

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

I didn't even think of using it in EV mode and only fueling up once every 6 months or so. What a brilliant vehicle with legendary Toyota reliability!

[@chrisE815]

IMO you should be burning through AT LEAST a tank per quarter for ICE engine longevity but, yeah it's cool.

[@stephenfiore9960]

See “Car care Nut” KZbin channel on how to treat a R4P. He’s a longtime Toyota mechanic. Don’t let the gas sit that long, it has corrosive properties

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

@@stephenfiore9960 Thx for the hint. Yeah there's always an downside with stuff like that.

[@damienblack1734]

I bought a Rav4 Prime about 2 weeks ago. I just love it. It rides great, I put on a little over 1,300 miles and it's just slightly under half a tank!!! Still, this thing has so much power when you need it. I just got the paint ceramic coated and will install ceramic 3M crystalline tinting to keep the heat out and not have the AC work too hard keeping the car cool. It's a great car.......if you can get it. It's really a long, long wait.

[@goranpetrovic2321]

How much did your electricity bill go up? Also how is range in winter vs summer, ev mode alone

[@damienblack1734]

@@goranpetrovic2321 My electric bill hasn’t gone up much since I charge it during the day and I have solar panels, so it’s pretty much free. I couldn’t tell you about Winter since I live on Maui and it’s summer all year long. I’ve had the car for over a year now and have around 40,000 miles, and it still runs great. Still hard to get though, but if you get one, you won’t regret it.

[@goranpetrovic2321]

@@damienblack1734 cool thank you. Maui thats awesome

[@damienblack1734]

@@goranpetrovic2321 Maui’s Awesome for sure, but it’s very expensive to live here. Lol

[@rncondie]

We also own two Rav 4 Prime SE with weather package one in silver the other in white. The silver we have owned for one year Aug 7th second in white we purchased last week from Medford Oregon. First 6 months I went on one tank of gas. I am currently 4 months on a tank of gasoline and I anticipate getting another 6 months.

[@cartermiller2705]

A Toyota RAV4 prime tech encourages people to run the gasoline engine regularly and go through gas more frequently to avert problems with ethanol corrosion / stale gas, etc. also, change the oil at 6 month intervals independent of engine miles 👍☀️

[@scootsmcdoots80]

I was fortunate to get one of the first Primes in western Canada as well and have just over 16,000 km on mine. Really like it so far and only use fuel on road trips and during very cold weather (below -15C it uses the internal combustion engine).

[@richardch5922]

Hi, I am still doing research on this prime, can you let us know if you see big differences between the hybrid or electric range cold summer days? Thanks

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

The electric range is enough imo, If you are going on a long trip you should use hybrid mode anyway because then you can easily fill up in less than 5 minutes when low on gasoline. Best of both worlds!

[@chrisE815]

Yes, it's a reasonable compromise. I have been happy with our Prime. I do find that at least a few times a week, we run out of EV range but we are rural and not close to work/stores. I hope my next PHEV has a little more range, say 60-80 miles but that's probably not practical to build with current battery tech.

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

@@chrisE815 That's a range extended EV then.

[@cp-chipheo9528]

@@chrisE815 Longer range requires bigger and heavier battery which reduces car's efficiency. I think it's best to have just enough range but that's impossible to satisfy all customers. I'm lucky that ran 4 range is just perfect for my daily commute.

[@SunSeekerHawk]

Interesting to lesrn that the tech package gives you more driver leg room, which I definitely need. I would have not known that had I not watched this video. I definitely will go for the XSE with the tech package (called Premium Package in the US). Thanks!

[@rkgsd]

It almost seems like a design change. If the seat tracks are the same length, there should be no difference. Therefore they must've used two different track lengths.

[@stephenfiore9960]

@@rkgsd .That’s what I was thinking also

[@jwoicik]

Thanks for pointing out the issue with the digital rear view mirror. It's a great idea but in practice I don't like having to re-focus my eyes either in digital mode.

[@andystevens7557]

Ordered ours 2 days ago with every option. SOOOOO excited, though our 09 Highlander Hybrid Limited has served our family well.

[@marktackman2886]

Love the RAV4, don't love how they charge an arm and leg for anything above base.

[@trev0074]

Enjoyed the review, we have just ordered the RAV4 plug in, 6 months wait time to the Uk, hopefully it will be worth the wait.

[@yogazoe1922]

Can you post a video on the best way to drive / own a RAV4 Prime? E.g. Should you unplug as soon as the battery is charged? is it best to use battery for in city? Should you take the battery down to 0% before charging? It'd be great to gets tips on owning a RAV4 Prime from you!

[@AutomotivePress]

Ok let me work on those topics!

[@rncondie]

I charge at night and unplug in the morning and plug in again at work and unplug when charged in about 3.5 hrs. After one year of ownership I have had zero battery degradation and I leave the plug in all night. When it is fully charged it automatically disconnects from the power source. Unless you select HV it will default to EV and when the usable battery (14.3 kWh/18.1 kWh ) is spent it will automatically switch to HV. The battery will never completely deplete so it can operate as an HV. I drive in EV on the interstate and around town unless I am traveling greater than 42 miles and then I deplete the usable battery in EV and let it automatically switch to HV where the hybrid switches back and forth from gasoline to battery just like a regular hybrid which we also owned in a 2019 Rav 4 hybrid XLE. We achieved 42 mpg in the warm months and in the winter 37 mpg with our Rav 4 hybrid. In HV our Prime will average a little less due to the extra weight. We realistically can achieve 38 mpg The only reason we sold our Rav 4 hybrid and purchased a second Prime was because the dealer offered us $6,000 more than we paid two years ago new or $2,000 more than a new 2021 hybrid. After we receive the $7,500 federal tax credit the second Prime we purchased will be almost the same amount the dealer paid us in cash for our Rav 4 hybrid 2019 XLE.

[@dezafinado]

@@rncondie Wow. Used car's worth more than new... on a depreciating asset. That's what I call an upside down economy.

[@stephenfiore9960]

Look at “Car Care Nut” KZbin channel for how to care for your R4P. He is a long time Toyota mechanic

[@hphillips7425]

Good video glad you seen the writing on the wall and acted quick on reserving the primes. Use startron fuel treatment and keep the same routine of using up the fuel every 6 months

[@PostprandialTorpor]

Things Rav4 Prime desperately needs: 1. all the lights, all externals at very least, need to be LED 2. Actual Fog lights 3. Backlit critical interior buttons so they can be found easily at night 4. Update infotainment screen/software 5. Better resolution on rear cameras , especially backup camera 6.height adjustable front passenger seat 7. Locking glove box ( how does a car built 18 years after my Accord not have this ?) 8. Rear seat assisted folding like on the CR-V, Tucson, model Y 9. Instead of 40-60, do 40-20-40 folding rear seats for cargo flexibility . Presently the 40% split is behind driver. If you wanted to transport cargo and have a baby seat diagonal to the driver and accessible to the driver, the 40% should be on the passenger side

[@christinearmington]

No locking glove box? That’s stupid. 🤨

[@JohnDoe-yo2us]

Why would you want to have a locking glove box if you lock up your whole car? I’ts just more damage to repair if they try to steal stuff.

[@thienthan324]

@@JohnDoe-yo2us maybe if you drop off for repair, oil change , maintenance.

[@thienthan324]

#4,5 is a must

[@djjf45]

Great video appreciate you sharing your experience with the 3 models!

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@davidgapp1457]

No powered car seat should be offered without seat memory. It's an insane 'upgrade' which apparently assumes most cars only have a single driver! I specifically didn't bother with the XSE as I didn't want the panoramic roof - in part because I live in Arizona where even a moon roof is a waste, and in part because I use the roof rack routinely. I also fitted an IROAD X10 dashcam in my Prime SE then wired-in a permanent tablet so I can see the rear view through the X10's camera. Very wide angle, very high quality image. In terms of road holding and brakes, I was unimpressed by the SE. It would be interesting to compare the XSE and SE. The SE dives alarmingly under hard brakes and porpoises with mild brakes. Lane switching and obstacle avoidance is very indifferent in the SE - I definitely feel Toyota did not put enough effort into tuning the suspension, brakes and steering. Again, the XSE may be a whole lot better - I can't say. As for range, I'm routinely getting 45 miles which covers all my city driving. The car currently shows 3.1 miles per kwHr. I charge at 3.3kW which is only 4.5 hours - I don't see the 6.6kW charger as an especially useful upgrade but I guess it depends on how you use your vehicle! The average combined efficiency for my car, at present, indicates 51.5 mpg which includes a considerable amount of out-of-town driving (up into the mountains and inter-city). I expect most people would see better figures. I particularly like the Prime SE in the mountains. I typically run in "hold charge" mode as this provides extended power for uphill climbs and overtaking. I also like the larger battery pack as I can store more regenerative energy on the long downhill runs. As a result I get considerably better mpg in the mountains than I could achieve on the normal Rav4 Hybrid. Overall I'm happy with the vehicle but really wish Toyota has squashed the inevitable mark-ups we see here on the West Coast (ranging from $5K to $10K) It leaves a really sour taste in the mouth. I'm told the situation is far better on the East Coast and Canada (where they also get much larger tax credits/rebates). Arizona State offers no incentives to electric or PHEV car owners which sucks. In fact we are punished for owning such a vehicle! The State surcharges us on the annual road tax - retribution for not using enough gas and consequently not paying enough taxes. Of course Arizona is run by Republicans, so no surprise there!

[@davidgapp1457]

@@therealSIRBOOM complete bs. By your reckoning we should be surcharging SUV owners and rewarding anyone who drives a lighter car. We don't. Meanwhile your ICE vehicles are spewing out pollution both in particulates and CO2. It is YOU who should be paying a surcharge for fouling the environment, creating health issues which cost billions every year (both to employers and employee through medical costs and lost time). EV is the inevitable future. You need to get out of the way and STFU.

[@daboob24]

Hey @@davidgapp1457. I live in Arizona too and am searching for a Prime to purchase in the very near future, if I can find one somewhere around the country. Did you get yours in Cali? I’m considering going all the way out to the East coast to find one if I can get it cheaper and drive it back. Also, can you tell me more about the tax fuel surcharge here in the state? Didn’t realize that was something I was going to run into here and want to know what to expect. Glad to hear you’re loving it in the mountains, makes sense, makes me more confident it’s the right car choice for me. Thanks

[@christinearmington]

@@daboob24 You still have to pay a premium on the East coast, just not $10k. I’m working on a deal now and expect it to be lower. I’ll let you know 🤔.

[@DaddyBear1971]

In general, noise levels in a Lexus is expected to be much less than in a Toyota. When the NEW Lexus NX vehicles are available (and if you get to test drive them), I would like to get your thoughts about differences of noise levels to these RAV4 (including the Prime). Some have complained about the noise levels in the current generation RAV4 hybrids and non-hybrids. Thanks.

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes I look forward to comparing the new NX Prime to the RAV4 Prime. By the way, the RAV4 Prime is very very quiet and the RAV4 Hybrid we have is a bit noisy, but not much more than other hybrids in this class.

[@pbear216]

The noise complaints are all related to the 2019 models. All Rav4's from 2020 on have much more insulation and are pretty quiet.

[@Joeyyyy87]

If anybody want to big ahead of inquiry a new vehicle before they hit show room floors then you need to listen to this guy!!! SMART GUY!!! I appreciate you sharing all these tips !!!!

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you so much!

[@geneturner870]

I am waiting on my 2024 Prime in December. With all the reviews I have looked at, I am looking forward to getting my Rav4 Prime, it could be my last and best car ever. I like that on a road trip, it can charges the EV battery while on the highway using regenerative feedback.

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, I believe the whole RAV4 fleet should be 'Hybridized' with one exception, I think the V6 should be reintroduced for the 'rugged' TRD and Adventure/Trail models. It would be great if the 240 hp Hybrid powertrain from the Highlander Hybrid was available in a RAV4. BTW you might want to add some fuel stabilizer to the gas tanks of your Primes.

[@1northsparrow246]

A 300 hp RAV4 that could tow up to 5,000 lbs would be excellent.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thanks for your comment always! I think eventually Toyota would 'hybridize" most of its fleet of cars/trucks but I doubt the V6 will ever show up again in the RAV4. Adding fuel stabilizer is a good idea but since the gas company changes the composition season to season, it's easier just to use up the gas and change over every 6 months. By the way, what kind of topics do you want me to cover in the future? Would appreciate your feedback.

[@djjf45]

@@AutomotivePress Something you may or may not have any knowledge about... my 2000 4Runner limited here in the US (bought used in 2005) was originally from Canada. Do you have any idea about importing or transferring Canadian vehicles to the US?

[@valueinvestmentfan6552]

@@AutomotivePress So much to learn from you. Always enjoy your content, could you do a video on Australian Toyota models and why Toyota Sienna is not available for Australia

[@pbear216]

So the 240 hp Highlander motor has more power than the 302 hp motor in the Rav4?????? Hmmmm

[@mlatief5865]

I really enjoyed this video as it shows a direct comparison between the two variants. Excellent review IMO I will receive my Rav next week as I ordered earlier in the UK. Thanks.

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TakIshiguri-u8w]

Great video, I’m about to take delivery of one. Which tow bar do you have fitted to these? I can’t tell from the photo but does it require the bumper to be cutout?

[@DocMicrowave]

Just got my Prime. Interestingly, I didn't get the Tech Package with my XSE. But I have the paddle shifters and the JBL sound system. Very happy with it having had it for over 3 weeks now. Have only used 1/4 of the full tank of gas provided by the dealership. And that was used in driving from the Dealership because the battery was not charged. Haven't used gas since. The only feature I would have liked to have is the 1500w AC outlet in the rear. But that only comes with the full tech package.

[@DUNGSTA]

Digital mirror is really useful especially with how dark your tint is!

[@AutomotivePress]

The tint is the standard tint from Toyota, I didn't make any mods to the windows.

[@Bonzosbadgeholder]

Hi David, I just bought a 2023 RAV4 Prime and I would like to ask you if I should get paint protectant/coating or if I should just get it waxed annually? Please let me know your thoughts and thanks for recommending the RAV4 Prime.

[@glouis9404]

The only complaint I have I have with my 2021 Rav4Prime is why didn’t Toyota spend a little money for lighting the controls on the doors? At night you can’t see the switches for the windows or doors and have to know by memory or feeling around the switches.

[@bjarnehansen3812]

You have lights in the door and top buttons in the 2022 version which I have. Plus LED-light inside

[@glouis9404]

@@bjarnehansen3812 That’s great! Too bad they didn’t do it for mine but I love the car.

[@ezequielcapurro]

Around how many mile do you drive daily? I am thinking getting a Prime to save on gas Thank you for you video great review

[@breaker1685]

Yes! I agree with Anthony D - in test driving 2 x RAV4's the noise levels were higher than one would expect from Toyota - I have heard that there are some businesses that add sound deadening packages to keep noise levels down BTW I did not like the JBL sound system in the RAV4's - the 9 speakers are overwhelming in an essentially station wagon type setting.

[@AutomotivePress]

Hmmm, our Primes are very very quiet and even our RAV4 hybrid is not that noisy - definitely more noisy than the Prime though

[@daboob24]

“Overwhelming” 😂 then turn the volume down

[@stephenfiore9960]

What, To much echo with so many speakers where the sound waves interfere with each other??

[@hanh800]

Thanks for the informative comparison. What is the make/model of your tow hitch?

[@Dreamfuture1]

Hello I come from the future and there are still no available Rav4 Primes. What a shame.. I really wanted one

[@walterramirez3287]

In my opinion....the prime is just a testbed for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid engine. The engine output with a few tweaks will have a little more Hp and TQ. This would be a great update for the Tacoma, with more power and torque while having better mpg. The Tacoma would be the small truck to beat in 2023, once again.

[@MrBigBoy4Life]

Let’s just keep it real! MOST Toyota consumers would rather have their vehicles built in Japan over any other country! To watch a Toyota Japanese vehicle assembly line is a thing of beauty!!

[@OldDood]

David, I sure wished Toyota installed the HUD in at least the Limited and the XSE Hybrids. (and even the higher trimmed Gas Models) I do not understand why they would not install the HUD in other RAV4's. Do you have any idea as to why? (other then cost) My son recently purchased a 2022 Prius Limited Hybrid and he has a HUD in his car.

[@richardch5922]

Hi David Nice review, I found your channel by doing research on rav4 prime. My wife and I own toyota. My 02 highlander with 267000km my wife 07 rav4 with 245000km, we are planning to upgrade to newer model. Can you let us know the range you are getting on the battery fully charged here in the lower mainland, also does it change much during cold days and hot days. Do you know how long is the waiting for the new rav4 prime? As you mentioned that you change car every year, let me know if you are selling your prime! Thanks

[@qigongwithdaveandlucy844]

I noticed on the tech passage car you have a trailer hitch installed and yet your foot activated boot hatch works. I had the Toyota hitch installed, which sits a bit higher and actually comes through the bumper. However, the dealership turned off foot activation because they said it doesn’t work with a trailer hitch. Did you do something different to have foot activation work with the hitch installed? If my charge says 50 EV miles I actually get about 42 at highway speeds. In town, I often get close to 50 miles out of a charge. I discovered that if I drive at 55 mph on the highway I can get close to 50 miles, but on California freeways other drivers expect everyone to go 70+. For that reason I often take back roads if available. I love going on a 75 mile trip and using less than 1 gallon of petrol.

[@stephenfiore9960]

*I wish you would have shown the regular moon roof, and not just the panoramic moon roof, excellent video anyway*

[@evanmclaughlin09]

At 12 minutes you show the back of the car with a trailer hitch and the kick feature still works. What trailer hitch do you have installed? I was told the kick feature doesn’t work if you get a trailer hitch installed but yours does work. Is it a Toyota hitch or an aftermarket and if so what brand name?

[@qigongwithdaveandlucy844]

I noticed the same thing. Since his hitch is below the bumper I’m guessing after market. I had trouble scraping on my 2019 RAV4 Hybrid with 2 e bikes on the back and driving into certain driveways. On my 2022 Prime I got the Toyota hitch. It is installed through the bumper so rides higher. They turned off my kick feature.

[@sungji7933]

Thank you for great video and unique perspective!

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sungji7933]

@@AutomotivePress I am interested to purchase R4P this year and your video sure helped me! Do you personally think Technology package worth money to equipped? I am seeing many reviews and comments saying it'd be wise to go SE for bucks. I want to know what you think!

[@CHESVADS]

Your hitch add-on, is that used as a step, or to keep people from bumping you? Just curious.

[@bngr_bngr]

Can you do a review of your 25 year old Rav-4?

[@ulloasf9755]

I have a question 🙋‍♂️ if you order a car from Toyota Do you get the msrp or the dealership sets the final price?

[@AutomotivePress]

It depends on the region and the dealership. Right now, many dealers are charging mark ups but here in Canada, it's illegal to do so, therefore everything is at MSRP

[@petermaree]

From South Africa. Quick question. If the power trips like black out does it start charging again when the power comes back on? Or do you need to reset it on the app or replug the car.

[@bjarnehansen3812]

I've had mine for a month. Top spec'ed from Japan. A great car with few complaints. My major issue is road noise from the rear at higher speeds. The rear ought to have better noise isolation like the front and I will probably add some noise isolation. Other minor issues: lane assistance too nervous (compared to my previous Seat Ateca); arm rest in the door need a little more padding. The electric range is longer than advertised - 84 km - nice.

[@carlosquiroz7819]

Is the HP reduced when the battery charge is reduced to it's low limit?

[@bjarnehansen3812]

@Carlos Quiroz No, you will always have access to the full power. The RAV4 PHEV keeps the last 4 kwh for its own use as a buffer for such cases. It will switch to HV mode when there is only 4 kwh left in order to keep the buffer. It will use the buffer when you need more power than the engine can deliver and then top up 4 kwh when possible. I don't know if it is possible to deplete the full buffer in long, high power scenarios, e.g. very high speed wilh a stuffed up car running up a very steep mountain for a very long time.

[@bjarnehansen3812]

I did add some noise isolation in the rear so I am pleased with the noise level now.

[@YYY-nj9wq]

​​@@bjarnehansen3812 what did you do to improve noise from RAV4 Prime? I am sure Lexus NX450+ do have a better noise control....

[@bjarnehansen3812]

@BBB A specialist in sound isolation of cars added some padding in the rear. I am pleased with the noise level now. Still not a luxury car but much better than before.

[@Shane-zx4ps]

0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds, if these suv,s were bmw or Mercedes they would cost you twice the price Toyota charges for them..

[@DUNGSTA]

Lol won't be 100k

[@dezafinado]

A turbo or supercharged RAV4 PHEV with coilovers. Ze Germans would be pooping sausages.

[@mangmang1980]

I thought car reviews were supposed to drive cars a lot but you only drive it minimally

[@AutomotivePress]

I drive this car almost everyday.... but the point of this video was to do a comparison of the two models and to provide some feedback after 6 months of ownership. This was not supposed to be a full review. Thank you for your feedback regardless.

[@luzovich]

My local Toyota dealer has 6 RAV4 Primes on the lot so availability seems to be improving. This is in California so we might be getting more than other areas.

[@Fakingittilimakeit]

Which dealer? Looking for one that will not sell over MSRP

[@luzovich]

The Santa Cruz dealer website shows 6 in stock. Price not listed

[@erikpenabella599]

XSEs?

[@luzovich]

@@erikpenabella599 3 in stock www.santacruztoyota.com/new-vehicles/#action=im_ajax_call&perform=get_results&model%5B%5D=RAV4+Prime&page=1

[@toronado455]

Easier to find Primes than regular hybrids right now in southern California.

[@badimpulses17]

I'm only getting 435 miles on full tank on my Prime. Went to dealer they said it varies on the way you drive. That doesn't make any sense to me. Are you having the same iss on your Prime?

[@reganfawley8362]

The hybrids and primes have fuel tank issues, pretty sure they have a fix now.

[@badimpulses17]

@@reganfawley8362Dealer told me it is normal. Like they think this is my first car that I own.

[@daboob24]

@@badimpulses17 may I ask what part of the country you got yours in? Looking to get one and having a hard time finding one

[@jonkrispeterson6678]

Just got info that there is a fix for the gas issue. Have an appointment next week. Was told to bring in with a full tank, letting it click off. They will manually top off, and when I do that, I add at least 2 gallons. Service tech said something about a fuel sensor. That should add another 100 miles of range, as the tank will be full.

[@stephenfiore9960]

*How do you have a “birds eye view” camera without having a camera way above the vehicle?????* I’m lost

[@bjarnehansen3812]

The cars computer combines pictures from 4 cameras: front, rear and one in each side mirror. Very useful

[@toronado455]

I like the 1997 RAV4. It's nice and boxy with a tall greenhouse. Do you still have yours? the photos show it in beautiful condition!

[@AutomotivePress]

No it finally broke down after 21 years! but it was in mint condition!

[@Ryan-cf6lc]

Hi David, any chance Toyota could use this drivetrain for a Highlander Prime? This seem like a logical next step for the Highlander model.

[@AutomotivePress]

I think eventually, they should have the Highlander Prime

[@misteraloha580]

May I ask if you think the $6,000 is worth it for the tech package?

[@SifuBang]

I wonder if the prime se suspension differs from the hybrid se suspension model

[@bradsechrist9746]

why spend all that money for something you are going to drive less than 50 miles a week? It would be cheaper over the course of 10 years to take an uber.

[@crazykenbei]

Not any more bro. Uber raised their prices. By end of year one on Uber you got half the car paid off lol.

[@carmel0427]

What reasons would you recommend someone to add the options of the faster charging system?

[@AutomotivePress]

It's simply to be able to charge faster.

[@danlizardo818]

No option right now for fast charge or 240 volts

[@davidjones2100]

It helps if you drive longer distances daily. Ex. I drive 54 miles each way for work so it allows me to charge more at work

[@erikpenabella599]

Dang. Thanks for rubbing it in. Not 1 but 2?

[@AutomotivePress]

Ha ha sorry about that! We do love our Toyota's!

[@DUNGSTA]

Why the same freaking color tho?!

[@babyganga8786]

Made in Japan is a huge difference than Made in Ontario, the Japanese take their time and make sure every detail is 100% where as in NA it's all about speed and getting it ready ASAP

[@RichPoser]

Great video and detailed description. How did you get the hitch receiver on the Prime Premium (tech) model? I was told Toyota would not install a hitch receiver since it would foul the kick sensor.

[@OldDood]

I do not believe that Prime of his has a Kick Sensor. His other one does since it has the Teck Package.

[@qigongwithdaveandlucy844]

I had Toyota install the hitch receiver on my Prime XSE with tech package. They turned off the kick sensor because they said the hitch covered the sensor.

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

Is there a way to see how long the engine has been running? I imagine a RAV4 Prime with 100,000 miles has less wear on the engine than a normal RAV4 with 100,000 miles.

[@nickshotgun3760]

Never thought about that, I guess price would have some wear on battery and electric motor, and less on a vine and trans, Second thing brakes, prime should have less wear on that as well

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

@@nickshotgun3760 The brakes can still seize though and need maintenance. Still a detailed recording of data like engine hours and a score combining that with the revs and changing of revs would be crazy cool to have. Oh and battery life (the actual life not the charge level) would be great to see.

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

@@nickshotgun3760 Electric motors basically have zero wear if they run in spec and they run in spec all the time unless you do shenanigans with the control unit of the motor.

[@DUNGSTA]

Why the same color?!

[@dezafinado]

2 Primes... I am waiting for a "Buy one, get one free" deal. 😎

[@gregcolbourne8808]

Great job, thank you

[@hybridduncan007]

Our 2020 rave Adventure model. Saved our lives yesterday we t- bone a Honda. Everyone walked away from both vehicles.

[@rkgsd]

I don't care for all the gloss black body trim. I believe it's more prone to road grime paint chipping.

[@georgebarbari2709]

I’m getting 52 miles per charge in the summer 48 in the winter I have a 2022 with the technology package

[@Devillers-y9q]

David，You promised to talk about the difference in driving experience between GR86 and BRZ. Don’t break your promise.

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes yes! There are a number of videos out there on this subject in Japanese, was there one that you were interested in?

[@Devillers-y9q]

@@AutomotivePress With the GR86 and BRZ both made by Subaru, we're curious to know how Toyota's engineers made driving differentiation on a limited budget? In mainland China, the GR86 is more readily available and easier to maintain thanks to Toyota's vast distribution network.

[@Anavllama]

I was going to complain about not having one because of KZbinrs and Automotive Press people hogging all the ones available but the XSE model is above my price point so in this case, you get a pass. ;-)

[@AutomotivePress]

Ha ha.... thanks for the "pass!"

[@dds2899]

Do you think that Rav 4 Prime will be widely available in the future?

[@AutomotivePress]

It will always remain a niche vehicle but the availability should improve next year.

[@toronado455]

In my region it's easier to find a PRIME than a regular hybrid for some reason right now.

[@sammyjammy6647]

@@toronado455 nobody wants to spend that much. Regular hybrids are more affordable

[@daboob24]

@@sammyjammy6647 not really, subtract the $7,500 tax rebate and the Prime and the Rav 4 hybrid are very close in price out the door for both top trims, now add in 50 miles of daily commuting without gas, it’s actually a landslide victory for the Prime...

[@daboob24]

@@toronado455 may I ask what region are you in? I’m looking for one everywhere and can’t seem to find one

[@cryptoknight108]

You think there will be a Tundra Prime?

[@AutomotivePress]

It's possible but not for 2022 or 2023. Perhaps a bit later on.

[@lforeman9467]

Hello David are RAV4 primes produce in Japan?

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes the only the Primes are produced in Japan

[@toronado455]

PRIME is built exclusively in Japan. The non-Prime in USA, Canada, and Japan.

[@wriggs13]

Thanks for the review David. I’ve had my Prime for a couple of months now and I enjoy it more everyday as I discover more about it. I see you have trailer hitches on yours and it doesn’t appear to interfere with the kick sensor. Which hitch did you get and where did you get it installed (I’m in Vancouver too)? I would have liked an OEM hitch but it wasn’t an option, I believe, because of the rear kick sensor.

[@AutomotivePress]

So I have the OEM hitch on one of the Prime (without the tech pkg) and on the Tech pkg Prime, we had Rackattack install the hitch. It was much cheaper than the OEM and they did a great job. It's a bolt-on job, so nothing got drilled either.

[@bripeck]

@@AutomotivePress I like the way the OEM hitch receiver is cut into the bumper cover and doesn’t affect the departure angle as much as the aftermarket unit.

[@AutomotivePress]

@@bripeck Yes definitely more integrated, but the aftermarket one is sufficient since we don't go off-roading and also they don't cut the bumper.

[@PlanetByeBye]

I am 6'4" Just wondering if the Rav4 will fit a giraffe?

[@gearhead9828]

Same here, fits ok.

[@davidweissman4407]

I live in Fairbanks, AK and am considering a RAV4 Prime. what is your opinion of the electric powered rear wheels as part of the AWD system. What is you opinion of how it will do at -20F? I have a 3.2 Kwh PV system, so using charging the car in the long days of summer will a snap. It's the snow and cold that worries me.

[@petermaree]

Drive tye fuel out so surculate the fuel as the fuel in your tank is getting old. Monthly run the motor to move the fuel

[@Bmeri3]

If you are only plugging in a couple times a week on a level one charger and not draining the battery, you must be doing very little mileage. I don't see how you can cost justify the extra cost of the plug-in model. I think you just wanted a nicer quiet car.

[@AutomotivePress]

The Prime is definitely a nicer car - it's my wife's car and yes she doesn't drive too much

[@sailboatlighthouse]

Four minutes of introduction is so much to take with all the respect, thanks for your video though.

[@raulcasas4548]

Good Afternoon David. Here in the United States they are refusing to take down payments. Is there anyway to purchase a vehicle directly from Toyota? I think if they take a down payment they will have to quote you a price. If they do, they can’t price gouge you.

[@AutomotivePress]

That's too bad... but unfortunately you cannot go directly to Toyota as well.

[@christinearmington]

Oh they take down payments. I’ve checked in three different states.

[@raulcasas4548]

@@christinearmington I’m in California can you tell me which dealership? I’ve been looking at the Costco approved dealerships and they haven’t quoted me either

[@christinearmington]

@@raulcasas4548 Wait. Costco? How does that work? Yikes. 😳

[@raulcasas4548]

@@christinearmington Costco Auto Program.

[@lozanAhmed]

Jack Chan brother

[@Drogos79]

oh laaaawd//// if you buy 2 rav4 after owning previous one for 20 years.....you are not auto enthusiast ...you are appliance buyer

[@AutomotivePress]

It's my wife who buys the RAV4s. I have bought, sold, and changed more than 20 times in the last 20 years as I change car every year.

[@refnel]

am piss from the start when you tell me you have 2 and am in a 4 years waiting list lol.... anyway

[@walterndlovu6329]

Nothing suit this rav so nice like these rims

[@dejannovakovic6908]

nice....................

[@jorgeson3586]

Wish we could get them in Australia, our backward government is actually planning to tax more on EVs

[@Shane-zx4ps]

Backwards is right, in Europe we are been told to drive these cars and giving grants to buy them…

[@verynick]

So this dude took them all that’s why that’s a wait lol

[@johnpaul5438]

Hey David new NX is coming so it is your Rav 4 prime killer lol

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes you're right - the NX Prime would be an amazing vehicle! We might have to trade up!

[@cnclathe3606]

So if you want more people to enjoy the rav4 prime, why you own 2? You said it’s hard to get them. If more people buying 2 prime, than less people will get to enjoy it. I’m thinking of getting a prime with the tech package but after watching your vdo, look like it’s a waste of time trying to buy one.

[@daboob24]

You can definitely still find them for purchase, they’re hard to get but not as impossible as he’s suggesting

[@daboob24]

He’s in Canada and the wait times up there are far greater than here in the US. You can find them on dealership lots right now here, just maybe not close to your home and in another state depending on where you live

[@KungPowEnterFist]

Car is horrendous to look at. Let's just get that out the way. But on paper this car is about half the cost to operate and maintain vs Tesla's cheapest to operate and maintain model. Half. Incredible! This is the actual future. PHEV's with 40+ mile range all electric, and then high 30's MPG + otherwise. Price is right. Performance is fantastic. Economy is brilliant. Its too bad its so darn ugly.