The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid's #2 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It is the winner of our 2021 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for the Money award and a finalist for our 2021 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for Families award. Currently the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a score of 8.0 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Energetic powertrain Great gas mileage Spacious, handsome cabin Plenty of standard features Ample cargo space
Cons Road noise permeates the cabin
The Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has an impressive all-electric range and low emissions, but the extremely high list price limits its appeal for private buyers and company car buyers alike. The regular front-wheel drive RAV4 hybrid is the sweet spot in the range. It’s fairly ordinary to drive, but strong resale values, astounding economy and a fantastic reliability record make it a tempting option in the large SUV category.
Pros Exceedingly frugal Regular hybrid has slow predicted depreciation Strong reliability record
Cons Terrible infotainment system Rivals are better to drive No seven-seat option
The standard RAV4 Hybrid receives a new mid-range XLE Premium trim for 2021, but the big news this year is the introduction of the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime models. The RAV4 Prime is the most powerful RAV4 offered with a total of 302 horsepower between its gas engine and electric motors; it also offers a claimed 42 miles of electric-only driving per charge.
Pros Strong acceleration, driver-assistance tech is standard, roomy cabin.
Cons Prices start above $30,000, uninvolving handling, most desirable features quickly increase the price.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent's #13 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Subaru Ascent has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Roomy seating Spacious cargo area Generous standard features list Standard all-wheel drive
Cons Below-average predicted reliability rating
Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced driver aids now includes adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.Steering-responsive LED headlights are now standard.A second- and third-row seat-belt reminder is now standard.
PROS Substantial list of standard and optional driving aids High-quality interior materials Generous ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Accelerator pedal is too touchy Invasive engine and tire noise Not much second-row shoulder room, and third row is tight Rolling over bumps at higher speeds sends vibrations through the cabin
The latest Ascent receives a handful of new standard features for 2021. These include LED headlights that turn with the steering wheel as well as automatic high-beams. The Touring model also adds another leather upholstery option: Slate Black with silver stitching. And as if the Ascent's incessant beeping notifications weren't annoying enough, all models now have a seat-belt chime that's meant to remind second- and third-row passengers to buckle up.
Pros Flexible seating configurations, cushy ride quality, every model comes with driver assists.
Cons Apathetic passing power, noisy engine during hard acceleration, third row smaller than some rivals.
