Summary
- Plug-in hybrids were a better fit than EVs for the writer due to the technology not meeting their needs yet
- Toyota is a leader in plug-in hybrids with models like the Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime
- The RAV4 Prime lacked certain features in the lower trim, pushing the writer to opt for the higher trim
- Charging the RAV4 Prime with a Level 2 charger is faster and more convenient than a Level 1 charger
- While there were issues with wireless CarPlay and phone charging, the overall driving experience and fuel efficiency of the RAV4 Prime were praised
Article
In early 2023, the author was interested in purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) but found that the technology was not quite ready to meet their needs, especially with an aging parent living four hours away. This led them to consider plug-in hybrids, which offer the benefits of driving on electric power but also have a full tank of gas for longer trips. Toyota, with 25 years of experience in hybrid technology, stood out as a leader in this field, offering models such as the Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime.
The author’s decision to choose the Toyota RAV4 Prime was influenced by the limited options in the plug-in hybrid market at the time, as well as the features and pricing of other vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and the Kia Niro. However, they found that the lower trim level of the RAV4 Prime lacked certain features for its price, such as wireless charging, wireless CarPlay, parking assist sensors, and driver seat position memory. This led them to opt for the higher trim level, which offered these features at an additional cost.
Charging the RAV4 Prime with a Level 1 charger was sufficient for daily use, but a Level 2 charger would provide faster charging times. The author also highlighted the availability of Level 2 chargers in various locations around town, making it convenient to charge the vehicle while out and about. They found that driving the RAV4 Prime in electric mode allowed them to cover short distances without using any gas, while long-distance road trips in hybrid mode yielded impressive fuel efficiency.
Despite the benefits of owning a RAV4 Prime, the author encountered some issues with features like wireless CarPlay, wireless charging, and the radio. They found that these problems persisted even after multiple visits to the dealership for repairs. Additionally, they were disappointed to discover that certain app features, such as remote start and charging alerts, were only available during a limited free trial period. The author expressed frustration with these technical problems and questioned the value of paying extra for features that did not work reliably.
Overall, the author was satisfied with the core driving experience of the RAV4 Prime, noting its efficiency and performance. They praised Toyota’s expertise in building hybrids and plug-in hybrids, but cautioned against opting for the higher trim level due to the perceived lack of value. Despite the technical issues encountered, the author acknowledged the benefits of driving an EV or plug-in hybrid, especially in terms of cost savings and environmental impact. They recommended joining a local EV enthusiasts group to connect with other owners and share experiences.
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