The Toyota RAV4 has long been celebrated for its versatility and leadership in the compact SUV segment. For 2021, Toyota continues to innovate, introducing the RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid, a new trim that enhances the already impressive hybrid lineup. Starting at an MSRP of $32,500, the RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid offers a blend of sophisticated features and Toyota’s renowned hybrid technology, making it an attractive option for discerning SUV buyers. Alongside this exciting addition, the 2021 RAV4 TRD Off-Road model receives a rugged upgrade with a new TRD-stamped stainless steel front skid plate, further solidifying its off-road credentials.
Introducing the 2021 RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid: A New Level of Refinement
Building upon the solid foundation of the RAV4 Hybrid, the XLE Premium trim takes inspiration from its gas-powered counterpart while adding unique enhancements. This new model is designed to offer drivers a heightened sense of style and comfort, combined with the fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness of a hybrid powertrain.
Key features that distinguish the Toyota Rav4 Xle Premium include:
- Eye-Catching 18-inch Alloy Wheels: The XLE Premium rides on distinctive 18-inch, 5-spoke sport alloy wheels with a super-chrome finish, adding a touch of elegance and sporty flair to its profile.
- Open Sky Views with Power Moonroof: Enjoy the open air and natural light with the standard power moonroof, perfect for enhancing every journey, whether it’s a daily commute or a weekend adventure.
- Advanced LED Lighting: The RAV4 XLE Premium is equipped with LED projector headlights featuring chrome bezels, Automatic High Beams, and auto on/off functionality. LED Daytime Running Lights with accent lighting and integrated fog lamps further enhance visibility and contribute to the vehicle’s modern aesthetic.
- Comfort-Focused Interior: Inside, the cabin is designed for maximum comfort and convenience. A dual-zone automatic climate control system ensures optimal temperature for both front and rear passengers, while SofTex®-trimmed seating surfaces offer a premium feel.
- Premium Seating and Adjustability: Sink into the 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support for personalized comfort on long drives. The front passenger seat is 4-way adjustable and includes a convenient seatback pocket.
- Leather-Trimmed Steering Wheel: The leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic 3-spoke steering wheel with silver accents and integrated audio controls adds a touch of luxury and puts essential controls at your fingertips.
- Intuitive Technology at Your Fingertips: Stay connected and entertained with the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It features six speakers and seamless smartphone integration via Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa. Enjoy hands-free phone calls, music streaming via Bluetooth®, and SiriusXM® with a 3-month All Access trial. Five USB ports (three in the front and two in the rear) ensure all your devices stay charged.
- Enhanced Convenience Features: The XLE Premium comes standard with a power back door for easy cargo access and Smart Key/Push Button start for effortless entry and ignition.
Rugged Capability for the Adventurous: 2021 RAV4 TRD Off-Road Skid Plate
For those seeking off-road adventures, the 2021 RAV4 TRD Off-Road model continues to embody Toyota’s off-road heritage. A significant enhancement for this model year is the addition of a TRD-stamped stainless steel front skid plate. This robust skid plate provides increased protection against rocks, debris, and other obstacles encountered on trails and unpaved roads. This first-ever front skid plate for the RAV4 adds another layer of durability to the already capable TRD Off-Road, reinforcing its adventurous spirit.
Building upon the RAV4 Adventure’s exterior design and 8.6-inch ground clearance, the TRD Off-Road distinguishes itself with specialized suspension, wheels, and tires engineered for challenging terrain. Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Driveline Disconnect is standard, supported by a suite of off-road handling technologies. With a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road is ready to haul equipment for any adventure.
The TRD Off-Road suspension is tuned for enhanced body control and a smoother ride on rough surfaces. Exclusive red coil springs, re-valved twin-tube shocks with internal rebound springs, and new bump stops contribute to improved handling and comfort. The 18×7-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels are paired with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail all-terrain tires, designed to TRD specifications for durability and grip.
The TRD Off-Road’s distinctive styling includes an exclusive two-tone Magnetic Gray Metallic with Ice Edge Roof, dark gray accents, and LED fog lights. Inside, red stitching and trim, along with Black SofTex® seats with TRD logo stitched headrests, create a sporty and rugged ambiance.
RAV4 Prime: Unleashing Power and Efficiency
The 2021 RAV4 lineup also includes the groundbreaking RAV4 Prime, the most powerful and quickest RAV4 ever produced. With a starting MSRP of $38,100, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasts up to 302 horsepower and achieves 0-60 mph in a projected 5.7 seconds, making it the fastest four-door Toyota model. It also offers an EPA-estimated 42 miles of all-electric range on a single charge, the highest EV range of any PHEV SUV on the market, and an EPA-estimated 94 combined MPGe. Standard Electronic On-Demand AWD further enhances its capabilities.
Available in sporty SE and XSE grades, the RAV4 Prime is designed for performance enthusiasts. The SE grade features 18-inch alloy wheels, a unique front grille, and comprehensive standard equipment, including heated front seats, an 8-way power driver’s seat, a 7-inch Multi-Information Display, Blind Spot Monitor, and more.
The XSE Prime grade (starting at $41,425) adds even more premium features, including exclusive 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels, vertical LED accent lights, paddle shifters, a moonroof, SofTex®-trimmed seats, and a 9-inch touchscreen Audio Plus system. Available packages further enhance the XSE Prime with features like a heated steering wheel, JBL Premium Audio, panoramic moonroof, and advanced safety technologies.
The Foundation of Excellence: 2021 RAV4 Standard Features
The fifth-generation RAV4 continues to be a top seller, known for its blend of truck-inspired styling and crossover versatility. All 2021 RAV4 models offer multimedia capability with Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, along with SiriusXM® trial subscriptions.
Value and convenience are enhanced across the RAV4 lineup. XLE and XLE Hybrid models now feature a standard power driver’s seat. The Weather Package, available on XLE models, adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and rain-sensing wipers for added comfort in colder climates. The Adventure grade includes a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, with an available Convenience Package that adds a power liftgate and moonroof. Limited models come standard with Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation and a JBL® speaker system.
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0) is standard on all 2021 RAV4 models, providing a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies, including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and more. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard on higher grades, with available Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking for enhanced safety in parking situations.
Design and Performance: A Harmonious Blend
The RAV4’s design embodies a bolder, tougher SUV persona while maintaining the desirable traits of a crossover. Built on the robust Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform, the RAV4 offers a stable and confident driving experience. Its athletic stance and available 19-inch wheels contribute to its dynamic appearance.
The high-strength unibody chassis is significantly more rigid than previous generations, enhancing agility and ride comfort. Optimally-tuned suspension systems and the expertise of Toyota’s takumi master craftsmen ensure responsive handling in various driving conditions.
Powertrain Choices: Gas and Hybrid Efficiency
The 2021 RAV4 offers a choice of gas or hybrid powertrains for LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited grades. Adventure and TRD Off-Road models are exclusively gas-powered. The Dynamic Force 2.5-liter 203-horsepower 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission delivers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Select grades offer All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Control and Rear Driveline Disconnect, while Adventure and TRD Off-Road models feature Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive for enhanced off-road capability.
RAV4 Hybrid: Leading in Fuel Efficiency
RAV4 Hybrid models utilize the Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine, achieving an EPA-estimated 40 combined MPG. The e-AWD system in hybrid models uses a rear electric motor for enhanced traction and stability.
The RAV4 XSE Hybrid stands out with a sport-tuned suspension and unique styling cues, including projector-beam LED headlamps and available two-tone exterior paint. The RAV4 Adventure offers rugged styling and off-road functionality, while the RAV4 Limited provides a luxurious experience with 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and premium interior features.
Interior Sophistication and Advanced Technology
The RAV4 interior offers a modern and sophisticated design with user-friendly controls and ample storage. Rear seat passengers enjoy a spacious cabin, and the rear cargo area is versatile with folding seats and a reversible liner.
Every RAV4 includes Toyota Multimedia with smartphone integration and available Wi-Fi Connect. Touchscreen displays range from 7 inches to 9 inches, with available Premium Audio and JBL® sound systems. Up to five USB ports and an optional Qi wireless charging tray keep devices powered up.
2021 RAV4 Pricing and Peace of Mind
The 2021 RAV4 lineup offers a range of models and price points to suit various needs and budgets. (Refer to original article for pricing chart image).
In addition to Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and Star Safety System, the RAV4 is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty and extended coverage for powertrain and hybrid components. ToyotaCare provides complimentary scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance for added peace of mind.
The 2021 Toyota RAV4, especially with the introduction of the XLE Premium Hybrid, continues to set the standard in the compact SUV segment. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, off-road capability, or premium features, the RAV4 lineup offers a compelling option for every driver.
