2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Toyota RAV4 Prime got a much-needed update for the 2023 model year, and its tech finally feels modern.

Toyota’s electrification strategy includes several engine and fuel types. The automaker is well-known for its extensive hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) offerings, and nowhere is that prowess on better display than in the 2023 RAV4. Offered in gas and hybrid formats in addition to as a plug-in hybrid, the venerable SUV brings something for everyone. In fact, the PHEV RAV4 Prime was once Toyota’s second-quickest vehicle behind the Supra, but the GR Corolla now wears that crown.

The 2023 RAV4 Prime gets an updated infotainment interface, which pulls Toyota’s tech RAV4 offering from the stone age into the modern age. Two trims are on offer in 2023: SE and XSE. Both models come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Combined output lands at 302 horsepower, which reaches all four wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Acceleration is strong, and while it’s not stunning by any stretch of the imagination, there’s more power than expected. In-town driving, including scooting in and out of traffic, is a breeze, and reaching highway speeds feels almost effortless. Passing is equally as confident, though the CVT does let the engine wail more than it should at higher speeds.

Toyota did a good job with chassis and suspension tuning, and the RAV4 Prime feels more competent than expected as a result. It’s not thrilling or giggle-inducing, but the SUV is more capable in the corners than many think it would be, and its regenerative braking system isn’t too sticky or overly sensitive like some.

Five people can ride in relative comfort, and the Prime’s standard cloth upholstery feels more expensive than it is. Heated seats come by default, and the XSE trim adds synthetic leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. Some RAV4 competitors offer more generous rear legroom, but there’s enough space for adults to ride comfortably. Cargo space is average, at 33.5 cubic feet behind the second-row seats.

An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard, along with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster. Toyota offers a 10.5-inch touchscreen in the XSE, which brings a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate controls, multiple USB ports, and SiriusXM radio come standard.

Crash test results aren’t yet available for the 2023 RAV4 Prime, but the 2022 model picked up a Top Safety Pick + award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety tech is generous and includes lane-keep assist, lane-departure alerts, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, adaptive cruise, and more. The Premium Package adds a head-up display, a surround-view camera, rain-sensing wipers, and reverse automatic emergency braking.

Pricing for the 2023 RAV4 Prime starts at $42,340, and the top XSE trim starts at $46,210. True to form, Toyota doesn’t offer many upgrades for the Prime, other than two options packages and various accessories.