Video Summary
The Toyota RAV4 EV has shared parts with the Tesla Model S. The motor produces 154 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque and uses a single-speed transmission. It is priced about $10,000 more than a Nissan Leaf, but boasts much more cargo space without reducing under-floor cargo space.Rear seats recline and fold mostly flat. At 6’0", there’s adequate legroom and headroom in the back.
The interior is adequate for a $20-30,000 vehicle, but feels like it is built with a lot of hard plastic for an almost $50,000 car. The vehicle has a large battery pack, at 41.8 kWh, providing 92-113 miles of range. Testing shows 120 miles is possible.
The vehicle has a completely new EV-specific instrument cluster with gauges for efficiency, Eco Coach, and a CO2 reduction display. It includes a new 8” Entune system without a volume knob, only touch-screen based volume controls.
The RAV4 EV drives similar to a RAV4 V6. With 273 lb-ft. torque, it is very powerful with 0-60 mph achieved in 6.8 seconds and torque steer at high speeds. Steering is vague due to electric power steering. For buyers in California, it allows use of carpool lanes.
