Toyota RAV4

The hybrid version feels energetic, with the electric drive producing immediate and quiet motivation from a standstill. There’s limited lean when taking corners and responsive steering, but the RAV4’s ride is stiff and a little jumpy, and the noisy engine hurts the driving experience. All-wheel-drive versions allow the driver to select modes to optimize traction on sand or mud. Fuel economy is commendable at 27 mpg overall for the non-hybrid version. The hybrid model gets an impressive 37 mpg. Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard, but no Android Auto until 2020. Toyota’s Safety Sense safety and driver assist suite is standard, and includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. For 2021 a plug-in hybrid version, called RAV4 Prime will be offered. The Prime has 302 combined hp and AWD is standard. Toyota says the Prime can travel about 42 miles on electric power.

The hybrid version gets a terrific 31 mpg overall. Handling is responsive and very secure. Inside, the controls are clear and intuitive. The 2016 RAV4 offered a suite of advanced safety features such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking which became standard equipment from 2017 on.