The Toyota RAV4 has consistently held its position as a leader in the competitive compact SUV segment, and the fifth generation continues to disrupt and innovate. For 2021, Toyota enhances the RAV4 lineup with the introduction of the Rav4 Xle Premium Hybrid, bringing a new level of sophistication and value to the hybrid range. With a starting MSRP of $32,500, the RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid expands the appeal of this already popular model. Furthermore, the 2021 RAV4 TRD Off-Road receives a rugged upgrade with a new TRD-stamped stainless steel front skid plate, bolstering its off-road credentials.
Introducing the 2021 RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid
Building upon the already well-equipped RAV4 Hybrid, the new XLE Premium trim offers an elevated experience for drivers seeking both efficiency and premium features. Mirroring the gas-powered XLE Premium in many aspects, the hybrid version adds exclusive touches and features that make it a standout in the 2021 lineup. Key highlights of the RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium include:
- Distinctive 18-inch 5-Spoke Super-Chrome-Finished Sport Alloy Wheels: These wheels add a touch of sporty elegance to the RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid‘s profile.
- Power Moonroof: Enjoy open-air driving and enhanced cabin ambiance with the standard power moonroof.
- Advanced LED Projector Headlights: Equipped with chrome bezels, Automatic High Beams, and auto on/off functionality, these headlights offer superior visibility and a modern aesthetic.
- Signature LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) with Accent Lighting: These distinctive lights enhance the RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid‘s visibility and on-road presence.
- Integrated Fog Lamps: Improve visibility in inclement weather conditions with integrated fog lamps.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Maintain optimal comfort for both driver and passenger with individual climate settings, featuring a dust and pollen filter, front center vent flow controls, and rear-seat vents.
- Leather-Trimmed Tilt/Telescopic Steering Wheel: Enjoy a premium feel and comfortable grip with a leather-trimmed steering wheel featuring silver accents and integrated audio controls.
- SofTex®-Trimmed Seating Surfaces: Experience the comfort and durability of SofTex®-trimmed seats in a spacious 5-passenger cabin.
- 8-Way Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat: Find your perfect driving position with an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat including lumbar support, complemented by a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat with a convenient seatback pocket.
- 4.2-inch Digital Multi-Information Display (MID): Access important vehicle information and settings through a clear and customizable digital display.
- User-Friendly 7.0-inch Touchscreen Infotainment: Stay connected and entertained with a 7.0-inch touchscreen system featuring six speakers, Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Enjoy seamless smartphone integration, USB media port, four USB charge ports, hands-free phone capability, Bluetooth® wireless technology for music streaming, and SiriusXM® with a 3-month All Access trial subscription.
- Ample USB Ports: Stay charged on the go with a total of 5 USB ports – three in the front and two for rear passengers.
- Convenient Power Back Door: Effortlessly access the cargo area with the power back door.
- Smart Key System with Push Button Start: Enjoy keyless entry and ignition for added convenience.
Rugged Upgrade for the RAV4 TRD Off-Road
For drivers seeking adventure beyond the paved road, the 2021 RAV4 TRD Off-Road model further embraces its adventurous spirit. A new TRD-stamped stainless steel front skid plate is now standard, providing enhanced protection against rocks, debris, and obstacles encountered both on and off the beaten path. This addition not only adds a visual cue to its off-road prowess but also delivers practical benefits for adventurous owners.
Building on the robust foundation of the RAV4 Adventure, the TRD Off-Road goes even further with specialized suspension, wheels, and tires designed for challenging trail conditions. Standard Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Driveline Disconnect, coupled with a suite of off-road handling technologies, ensures confident traction and control. With a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road is ready to haul equipment for weekend getaways and outdoor pursuits.
The TRD Off-Road suspension is meticulously engineered to optimize body control and absorb bumps effectively, resulting in a smoother ride on rough terrains and city streets alike. Exclusive red coil springs are tuned for off-road performance, while re-valved twin-tube shocks with internal rebound springs enhance control. New bump stops maximize wheel travel and improve body control over uneven surfaces.
Rolling on lighter and more rigid flow-formed 18×7-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels paired with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail all-terrain tires, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road is ready for any challenge. These tires feature a unique tread pattern and compound developed to TRD’s exacting specifications, offering rugged square shoulders to resist punctures. Severe Snow Rated and featuring open shoulder grooves, these tires excel in shedding debris, mud, and snow.
The exterior of the TRD Off-Road is distinguished by an exclusive two-tone Magnetic Gray Metallic with Ice Edge Roof combination, accented by dark gray front and rear lower fascias and standard LED fog lights. Inside, red stitching and trim accents amplify the TRD Off-Road’s sporty character. Comfortable Black SofTex® seat surfaces, lighter and more durable than leather, feature the TRD logo stitched into the front headrests.
The Performance-Driven 2021 RAV4 Prime
For those prioritizing power and efficiency, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime stands out as the most powerful and quickest RAV4 ever produced. With a starting MSRP of $38,100, this plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) delivers up to 302 horsepower and achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in a projected 5.7 seconds, making it the fastest four-door Toyota in the lineup. The RAV4 Prime also boasts an EPA-estimated 42 miles of all-electric driving range on a single charge, the highest EV range of any PHEV SUV on the market, along with an EPA-estimated 94 combined MPGe. Standard Electronic On-Demand AWD further enhances its all-weather capability.
The RAV4 Prime is tailored for performance enthusiasts and is offered in sporty SE and XSE grades. The SE grade is a new addition for the RAV4 Prime, while the XSE grade was previously exclusive to the RAV4 Hybrid.
The RAV4 Prime SE makes a bold statement with 18-inch painted and machined alloy wheels and a unique front grille design incorporating a front lower spoiler. Piano black exterior accents and a painted grille/diffuser contribute to its premium aesthetic. The SE trim is comprehensively equipped with features including:
- Heated front seats
- 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment
- 7-inch Multi-Information Display
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with red stitching
- Power Back Door
- Audio system with 8-inch touchscreen, Amazon Alexa integration, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
- 3 kW on-board charger
The available Weather & Moonroof Package offers further upgrades like a heated steering wheel, heated rear outboard seats, and rain-sensing windshield wipers with a de-icer function.
The RAV4 Prime XSE (starting MSRP of $41,425) builds upon the SE grade with even more premium features and an available two-tone exterior paint scheme featuring a black roof paired with select colors, including the new Supersonic Red. Standard XSE features include:
- Exclusive 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels, the largest ever offered on a hybrid RAV4
- Vertical LED accent lights
- Paddle shifters
- Moonroof
- SofTex®-trimmed seat surfaces
- Qi-wireless phone charger
- Ambient interior lighting
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver
- Audio Plus with 9-inch touchscreen
The standard Audio Plus system features a 9-inch touchscreen, the largest ever in a RAV4. An available Premium Audio multimedia system adds Dynamic Navigation and a JBL speaker system. Optional packages for the XSE grade include Weather Package, Weather and Audio Package, and Weather with Audio and Premium Package, offering a range of upgrades from heated seats to a panoramic moonroof and advanced safety features.
2021 RAV4: Setting the Standard
The Toyota RAV4 continues to be the best-selling model in its class, and the best-selling non-pickup small SUV in America for the past three years. Designed with a blend of rugged truck-inspired styling and crossover versatility, the RAV4 appeals to a wide range of drivers.
All 2021 RAV4 models come standard with multimedia capability including Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. SiriusXM® with a three-month all-access trial is also standard across all gas and hybrid grades.
Value is enhanced throughout the RAV4 lineup with upgraded equipment and option packages in XLE, Adventure, and Limited grades. The XLE and XLE Hybrid now feature a standard power driver’s seat. The Weather Package, available for both FWD and AWD XLE models, includes heated front seats, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a windshield wiper de-icer.
The RAV4 Adventure grade now includes a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The available Convenience Package adds a power liftgate and power moonroof.
Limited grade models come standard with Premium Audio featuring Dynamic Navigation, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and an 11-speaker JBL® sound system, delivering a premium audio experience. JBL® systems remain optional for other RAV4 trims including XLE Premium, TRD Off-Road, and XSE Hybrid.
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0) is standard on all 2021 RAV4 models, providing a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Automatic High Beam (AHB)
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB) are standard on higher grades, including the RAV4 TRD Off-Road. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (PA w/AB) is an available safety option.
Form and Function in Harmony
The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 is designed to excel in urban, suburban, and outdoor environments, bringing a blend of sportiness and utility to a highly competitive segment. Built upon the robust Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform, the RAV4 boasts a bolder and tougher SUV persona while maintaining a lower and wider stance than its predecessor.
The RAV4’s wheelbase and track width contribute to a stable and confident driving experience, while optimized front and rear overhangs enhance its off-road capabilities. Its sculpted exterior conveys athleticism, with a strong front fascia and dynamic profile. Available 19-inch wheels add to its assertive stance.
The high-strength unibody chassis is significantly more rigid than the previous generation, enhancing handling and ride comfort. Optimally-tuned front strut and rear multilink suspension systems further refine agility and ride quality. Toyota’s team of takumi master craftsmen meticulously tuned the vehicle’s dynamics to ensure responsive and predictable handling in diverse driving conditions.
Powertrain Choices for Every Driver
The 2021 RAV4 LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited grades offer a choice of gas or gas/electric hybrid powertrains, while the Adventure and TRD Off-Road grades are exclusively powered by the gas engine. Both powertrains deliver a compelling balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The Dynamic Force 2.5-liter 203-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, paired with an 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission, achieves an EPA-estimated 30 combined MPG (LE FWD).
LE, XLE and XLE Premium grades offer optional All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Control and Rear Driveline Disconnect, enhancing traction and fuel efficiency. Adventure and TRD Off-Road models feature standard Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Rear Driveline Disconnect for maximum off-road capability. The Limited model is available with either Front-Wheel Drive or optional Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive.
RAV4 Hybrid: Unmatched Fuel Efficiency
RAV4 Hybrid models achieve an EPA-estimated 40 combined MPG, thanks to the Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) working in conjunction with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine. A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and e-AWD system are standard in all RAV4 Hybrids, providing smooth and efficient performance in all driving conditions.
The RAV4 XSE Hybrid stands as the flagship model, featuring a sport-tuned suspension for enhanced on-road handling. Projector-beam LED headlamps are standard on Hybrid XLE and higher grades. A distinctive two-tone exterior paint scheme is available, along with piano-black accents and exclusive interior details.
RAV4 Adventure offers a blend of style and capability, with 8.6-inch ground clearance and standard Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive. The RAV4 Limited delivers luxury and sophistication, with 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and a premium interior.
The RAV4 Limited boasts a standard 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) and an available Digital Rearview Mirror. Optional premium features include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic moonroof.
Interior Elegance and Advanced Technology
All RAV4 models feature a sophisticated and modern interior design with a focus on user-friendliness. Premium materials and intuitive controls create a comfortable and refined cabin environment. Ample storage solutions throughout the cabin enhance practicality.
Rear seat passengers enjoy increased space and legroom compared to previous RAV4 generations. The rear cargo area features a reversible liner and side nets, with 60/40 folding rear seats for expanded cargo capacity.
Every RAV4 is equipped with Toyota Multimedia, including SiriusXM® and Wi-Fi Connect, along with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Available multimedia upgrades include larger touchscreens, integrated navigation, and JBL® premium audio systems. Up to five USB ports and an optional Qi wireless charging tray are available for enhanced connectivity.
2021 RAV4 Pricing
| Model | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| RAV4 LE | $26,050 |
| RAV4 XLE | $27,345 |
| RAV4 XLE Premium | $30,050 |
| RAV4 Adventure | $34,480 |
| RAV4 TRD Off-Road | $35,780 |
| RAV4 Limited | $35,930 |
| RAV4 Hybrid LE | $28,500 |
| RAV4 Hybrid XLE | $29,795 |
| RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium | $32,500 |
| RAV4 Hybrid Limited | $38,430 |
| RAV4 Prime SE | $38,100 |
| RAV4 Prime XSE | $41,425 |
Comprehensive Safety and Warranty
The 2021 RAV4 is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0) and Toyota’s Star Safety System, providing a wide array of safety features. Available technologies include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Bird’s Eye View Camera, and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (PA w/AB).
Toyota’s comprehensive warranty includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 60-month corrosion perforation warranty. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the HV battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles. ToyotaCare, a complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance plan, is also standard.
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 lineup offers a diverse range of options to meet the needs and preferences of compact SUV buyers. From the efficient and refined RAV4 XLE Premium Hybrid to the rugged TRD Off-Road and the powerful RAV4 Prime, the RAV4 continues to set the benchmark in its segment.
