The Toyota SUV That Outsold Its Entire Hybrid Lineup In 2024

There’s no denying that gasoline-electric hybridization experienced a massive uptake in popularity over the course of 2024, with Japanese brands like Toyota completely leading the charge in the new vehicle sales charts. The established manufacturer is able to achieve this result by offering the

most comprehensive hybrid catalog
, consisting of more than 15 conventional hybrids, mild hybrids, and plug-in hybrids. Toyota is one of the pioneers in this space and has remained committed to gasoline-electric hybrid technology, ever since it launched the first-generation Prius in its domestic market back in 1997. Toyota’s hybrid vehicles have been consistently present in the U.S. ever since the

facelifted first-generation Prius
arrived back in 2001.

Across all its new-generation models stands one particular HEV option that performs incredibly well thanks to a consistent month-to-month performance. The popular SUV option manages to outsell Toyota’s entire HEV range by a massive margin thanks to its appealing combination of performance and efficiency, versatile interior design, and capable driving dynamics. It is one of the brand’s more expensive options, but the solidified reputation that the moniker has generated over the past few decades proves that consumers value a trustworthy product more than anything else.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Toyota’s websites and other authoritative sources, including Consumer Reports, the NHTSA, and the EPA.

Toyota Sold More Than 200,000 RAV4 Hybrids In 2024

Toyota reveals that it was able to sell an impressive 208,356 individual units of the RAV4 Hybrid across the course of 2024. This excludes the 31,093 examples of the PHEV RAV4 Prime that sold over the course of the same period. This performance reflects a 28.5 percent improvement over 2023’s result, showcasing the brand’s ability to enhance the appeal of gasoline-electric hybridization in the new car market. The RAV4 Hybrid is a standout example, as it is the only model to transgress the 100,000 annual sales threshold except the all-new HEV-only Camry, which sold an equally impressive 205,156 units throughout 2024, despite being introduced relatively late in the year.

The third highest-selling HEV was the Sienna Hybrid, which achieved a 75,008-unit sales result, followed by the

Corolla Hybrid
, of which the brand managed to move 50,190 examples. Based on December’s results alone, the Camry Hybrid is Toyota’s champion, having sold 26,789 copies, which is a fair amount more than the RAV4’s 20,612 unit sales result. Based on these figures, there’s a very strong likelihood that the RAV4 Hybrid will lose its crown to the Camry over the course of 2025, which is an interesting conclusion when you consider that the brand itself considers the

RAV4 to be somewhat of a replacement for the Camry
where overall popularity is concerned.

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Produces 219 Horsepower

As we’ve mentioned, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s popularity is partly thanks to its effective drivetrain configuration. This consists of the brand’s naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine, which generates 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque without any electrical assistance with a dual-motor setup for the all-wheel drive system.

Toyota doesn’t disclose combined torque figures for most of its hybridized products, but confirms that the system generates a combined 219 horsepower output. The ICE produces 176 horsepower, while the front electric motor generates 118 horsepower and 149 pound-feet. The rear motor produces 54 horsepower and 89 pound-feet of torque.

2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Specs And Performance

The result is a fairly respectable 7.3-second 0-60 MPH time and 117 MPH top speed. If you want to enjoy a good RAV4 performance experience, we’d recommend considering the PHEV Prime model, with its 302-horsepower state-of-tune thanks to a third motor configuration. Independent reviews suggest that Toyota is a bit bold with its performance claims, and that you can expect this model to cover the sprint in 7.8 seconds from a standing start. Regardless, there are still some impressive results in the context of the current hybrid crossover market.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Reliability

Being a RAV4, the hybrid iteration also benefits from some incredibly high reliability scores, which is another major factor that contributes to its success. Consumer Reports issues the model with an 83/100 predicted reliability rating, which is one of the highest marks you’ll see in this segment. J.D. Power backs this score with a reasonably impressive 80/100 quality and reliability rating.

Furthermore, the NHTSA has not subjected the RAV4 Hybrid range to any recalls whatsoever over the last three model years, which is an incredible result for a vehicle that has been sold so extensively during this period, further highlighting the brand’s commitment to long-term dependability and reliability.

The RAV4 Hybrid’s Atkinson-cycle engine enhances reliability through its efficient and simplified design, which reduces internal stress and wear. This engine generates less heat and pressure by optimizing the timing of the intake and compression strokes, which leads to improved durability and fuel efficiency. Toyota pairs this engine with a

direct drive eCVT
instead of a conventional transmission, eliminating many components prone to failure, such as a torque converter or clutch. The eCVT relies on an electric motor system, which operates seamlessly with fewer moving parts and requires less maintenance over time.

How Much A New Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Costs

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE starts off at $31,900, while the Limited sits at the top of the range at $40,205. Toyota also makes the RAV4 Hybrid range a bit more diverse, by including the special Woodland trim, which costs $35,120. This is basically an XLE with a lot of off-road-inspired exterior and interior trimmings applied.

If you prefer the XLE, this will cost you $33,410, while the

XLE Premium will have you increasing your budget to $36,300
. Toyota charges a $1,350 delivery fee for all RAV4 Hybrid units. Toyota doesn’t offer many optional extras for the RAV4 range, but there are some available packages for select trims. You can only specify the Hybrid LE with the $680 blind-spot monitor and rear-cross traffic alert and $90 rear cargo cover packages.

2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Pricing

The Hybrid XLE has access to the brand’s $925 Winter Package, $1,265 Convenience Package, and $2,190 Premium Convenience package. These include a host of extras, such as an electronic tailgate, sunroof, a heated leather steering wheel, and front seat heating.

The XLE Premium gets access to the 10.5-inch touchscreen and 11-speaker JBL audio system for $2,485. You can merge this with the aforementioned packages for $3,125 and $3,750, respectively. The Limited has access to three package groups, the most expensive of which is the $2,540 specification. This adds most of the aforementioned features, as well as a panoramic roof and digital rearview mirror.

Why The RAV4 Hybrid Is Such A Big Deal For Toyota

Research and investigative studies highlight why U.S. consumers typically prefer crossovers and SUVs like the

Toyota RAV4 over sedans like the Camry
. A noteworthy reason for this is because of how these higher-riding alternatives offer improved versatility and practicality.

The RAV4 Hybrid doesn’t benefit from much more cargo space and better rear-seat legroom compared to a midsize sedan, but it does outperform other noteworthy hybrid sedan options in this category. This makes it an ideal companion for families who tend to frequent road trips and live active lifestyles.

The Toyota RAV4’s Success In The U.S.

• The Toyota RAV4 offers a spacious interior and ample cargo capacity, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Its fuel-efficient engines, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, attract eco-conscious buyers seeking lower running costs.
• Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs makes the RAV4 a trusted choice for long-term ownership.
• The RAV4 features standard advanced safety technologies, including Toyota Safety Sense, appealing to safety-conscious consumers.
• Its all-wheel-drive capability and rugged styling resonate with buyers looking for versatility and off-road potential.
• A broad range of trims and price points ensures the RAV4 caters to diverse customer needs and preferences.

Crossovers also benefit from an elevated driving position, which provides better visibility compared to sedans. Drivers appreciate this when traversing urban and suburban environments with lots of obstructions and visual distractions. Drivers also feel safer when piloting a larger vehicle like the RAV4 Hybrid, even though many experts have disproved its safety benefits over sedans. The RAV4 hybrid in particular nails the perfect balance between fuel efficiency and utility, thanks to Toyota’s extensive experience in gasoline-electric hybrid technology, which dates back to the

original 1997 Toyota Prius
.