The RAV4 Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that's assisted by two electric motors for a combined output of 219 horsepower. Buyers of the XLE will enjoy conveniences such as passive keyless entry, a power-adjustable driver's seat, LED projector headlamps with automatic high beams, heated exterior mirrors, blind-spot monitoring, and front fog lamps. If you don't qualify for the tax credit, we'd recommend the XLE Hybrid, which offers more standard equipment than the base LE without suffering much of an uptick in price. Of the two Prime models, the XSE is packed with more standard features, including 19-inch wheels, a sunroof, and an infotainment system with a larger 10.5-inch display. If you can qualify for the $7500 electric-vehicle tax credit, the RAV4 Prime is a no-brainer, as the government's financial incentive lowers its price substantially-and you get a RAV4 with more power and a significant electric-only driving range. Still, the RAV4 Hybrid is a good-looking, practical, and comfortable small crossover that is frugal at the gas pump, which is more than enough for an SUV-loving American to feel good about. For those who want a little more involvement in the driving experience-remember, we're talking mainstream SUVs here, not sport sedans-there's the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage.

Too bad the RAV4 Hybrid's handling isn't sports-car sharp-quite the contrary, actually, as its noncommittal road manners aren't likely to satisfy drivers who value athleticism in their daily ride. For one thing, both are quicker than the nonhybrid RAV4-especially the Prime model which, amazingly, is capable of outrunning a four-cylinder Supra sports car to 60 mph.

But their electrified powertrains come with other benefits too, specifically better performance. Like their distant cousin, the hybridized Prius hatchback, the 2023 RAV4 Hybrid and plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime aim to bring impressive fuel efficiency to the compact-SUV segment.

Msrp of toyota rav4