[Taboleo] If Electric Vehicle Charging Is Burdensome, How About a PHEV?

Test Drive of Toyota Urban SUV RAV4 PHEV
Global Bestselling Model with 13 Million Units Sold
Comfortable Highway Driving in Electric Mode
Engine Reduces Charging Burden
Heavier than Hybrid but Better Fuel Efficiency

Urban sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are in high demand not only in Korea but also around the world. Last year, the 2nd, 6th, and 8th best-selling models globally were similarly sized compact SUVs. Among them, the 2nd place, the RAV4, plays a crucial role in helping Toyota maintain its position as the world's largest automaker. Since its debut in 1994, it has undergone four full redesigns.

In Korea, the 3rd generation model was introduced in 2009, and earlier this year, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version was added. Although battery electric vehicles have been somewhat slow to catch on, Toyota’s hybrid and PHEV models are backed by massive sales volumes that guarantee their marketability and technological prowess. This year marks the 30th anniversary since its launch, with over 13 million units sold worldwide. In Korea alone, about 22,000 units have been sold so far, with hybrids accounting for more than half of that number.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid
[Photo by Korea Toyota Motor Corporation]

PHEVs are considered a suitable alternative for those who are contemplating switching to electric vehicles but feel burdened by charging. Compared to conventional hybrids, PHEVs have larger batteries and more powerful motors, allowing for a significant driving range in electric-only mode. Even if charging is not possible, the presence of an engine alleviates major concerns. The battery in the RAV4 PHEV is 18.1 kWh, which is ten times larger than that of the hybrid model. It is said to be capable of traveling up to 63 km on motor power alone. When we first received the test vehicle, the driving range was around 850 km.

The combined system output reaches 306 horsepower. The hybrid model produces around 220 horsepower. Whether in stop-and-go city traffic or on highways, there is no feeling of insufficient power. While the output is ample, the focus is primarily on providing a comfortable and smooth ride.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid
[Photo by Korea Toyota Motor Corporation]

When accelerating rapidly, the engine engages. True to its 300-horsepower rating, it accelerates briskly, and the coordination between the engine and motor is seamless. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) feels somewhat awkward at first but quickly becomes familiar. However, some interior noise does seep in. In electric mode, it is possible to drive a significant portion of highway travel using only the motor. During driving, the battery charges, and it takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to fully charge.

The exterior design features volumetric elements that give a three-dimensional impression. The motif is inspired by two octagons intersecting at 90 degrees to convey a rugged yet adventurous feel. Unlike the conventional hybrid, the PHEV has an additional charging port. It also features shiny black accents on the front grille, front and rear bumpers, and side skirts.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Interior
[Photo by Korea Toyota Motor Corporation]

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Driver's Instrument Panel
[Photo by Korea Toyota Motor Corporation]

Unlike recent new cars that have increased display sizes, the instrument cluster and center display are somewhat small. Most climate control buttons are physical rather than touch-sensitive. While this makes operation more intuitive and convenient, it gives less of a feeling of being a latest model. Because the instrument cluster conveys a lot of information, it can feel somewhat cluttered at first.

The red stitching on the seats and steering wheel, as well as the paddle shifters, are features exclusive to the PHEV. The rear seats also have adjustable backrest angles, which is a very useful function. The rear seats fold in a 60:40 split, and when fully folded, they create a fairly flat floor.

Folded rear seat of Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid
Photo by Korea Toyota Motor Corporation

Compared to the all-wheel-drive hybrid model, the PHEV is about 200 kg heavier but offers slightly better fuel efficiency. The official fuel economy is about 15.6 km per liter, and even after driving roughly 150 km under fairly harsh conditions, it achieved around 17 km per liter.

The price is 56.5 million KRW, about 6.3 million KRW more expensive than the hybrid all-wheel-drive model. The facelifted model is priced 500,000 KRW higher at 57 million KRW. Although it is priced a class above, considering the driving performance and the ability to use it as an electric vehicle, the price is quite reasonable.