By Autoreviewman

For 2018, Toyota’s very impressive RAV4 Hybrid range starts at $27,750 for the base LE trim and tops out at $41,990 got the fully loaded Limited Edition. For the uninitiated, the hybrid system in the RAV4 features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine, linked to an electric motor placed at the rear axle to create an all-wheel drive system. The powertrain output, rated at 194 horsepower, is managed by a continuously variable transmission. There are four different drive modes: the all-electric EV mode, eco, normal and sport.  The RAV4 Hybrid is presently the most economical hybrid SUV on the market is rated at 6.9 L/100 km city and 7.8 L/100 km highway.

Our tester was a top of the line 2018 RAV4 Hybrid Limited model in a smart Galactic Aqua Mica paint and came with a very nice Cinnamon interior color trim. As standard   on the Limited model we tested was equipment such as 18-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, Tilt & Telescopic Steering Wheel with audio controls, Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control with Dust, Pollen, Deodorizing Air Filter, Rear Seat Heater ducts, AM/FM CD player with Bluetooth Controls, Voice Recognition   Capability, Audio Auxiliary Input Jack, USB Audio Input, Antenna Shark Fin Type, 6 Speakers and SIRI Eyes-Free system. As usual, safety is very high on the RAV4, in fact with any Toyota.  Standard on all new RAV4s is Toyota’s Safety Sense P package. Safety Sense P includes lane-departure warning with steering assist, radar cruise control, pre-collision warning with emergency autonomous braking, radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. Toyota’s very good decision to make this high end safety equipment standard on all RAV4s is an excellent move and will win it many family buyers I predict. The interior room and flexibility is great and there is plenty of cargo room. On the road, the RAV4 Hybrid handles very well and is a smooth and deft performer, with great fuel economy.

There is not a whole lot to complain about the RAV4 Hybrid. The Limited version is the one to get if you can stretch to it as it is fully loaded and with every power convenience you could want. However the lower priced base and mid-range models RAV4s with options such as the LE+ are also worth taking a look at. Highly recommended as an excellent family CUV with its full green credentials

2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited MSRP $41,990

Price as tested including Freight & PDI $43,902