Choosing could be challenging when you have to decide which compact crossover to get as there are numerous models available in the market today. Some models offer "this", some offer "that", and the innovation is limitless. And one of the models to consider this 2022 is the Toyota Rav4 HEV, the Japanese automaker's hybrid entry into the category.
Pros
It has an above-average cabin space.
Among all compact crossover SUVs in the Philippine market today, the Toyota Rav4 HEV is one of the most spacious. Its cabin is generous in terms of legroom space, as well as the headroom space, which is impressive compared to its competitors in the same class. The idea of wondering as to whether what would be the situation if the occupant is enormously tall would never come up, that's how generous its cabin space is. Also, the width of the Rav4 is ideal for families as having three occupants at the back would not be complicated, instead still comfortable. Everywhere you point your eyes inside the cabin is enormously spacious for all the passengers to have an enjoyable ride.
Its performance power is stellar.
Ever since one of the selling points of the Rav4 is its stellar performance power. The engine is more than necessary for the requirements based on the size and capacity of the car. Its road capabilities are reliable in every situation and every terrain. Now that it comes in a hybrid setup, the power has gotten more reliable and well-supported. There are certain features that its competitors brag about having that are absent in the Rav4, but they couldn't agree more that the Toyota Rav4 is an inspiration in terms of performance and power.
It has good insulation.
In a tropical country like the Philippines, having a sunroof could be challenging, especially during the summer when the heat index rises could lead to stroke. The good thing is, that the insulation of the Toyota Rav4 HEV is well-crafted to compensate for the heat caused by the sunroof. You can barely feel that there is direct heat from the sun because of the sunroof as the materials used to insulate the whole cabin traps the cold air from the air conditioning system. Aside from that, the engine, road, and wind noise will not be a disturbance to your driving or the passenger's comfortability as the insulation prohibits outside noise from coming inside the cabin.
Its fuel efficiency is on top of its rivals.
Despite that the Rav4 comes with an impressively robust engine and road performance, its fuel efficiency is astonishing as it consumes around 18.5 kilometers per liter of gasoline in the city, which is decent compared to its competitors. Its components work hand and hand to deliver the utmost performance quality without taking up too much fuel to run. Its hybrid capability also aids to minimize fuel consumption. Although there are several hybrid vehicles available in the same class that is fuel-efficient, the 2022 Rav4 saves relatively more than them, which is helpful now that the fuel price never stops soaring high.
Cons
Its price point is more expensive than its rivals.
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 HEV starts at Php2,157,000 for its base variant, which is relatively more expensive than its other rivals in the market. Although there are reasons behind this price point, if you are also to compare the figures, there are other cheaper options available in the market. Nevertheless, the Rav4 HEV undeniably offers one of the most powerful engine performances in the category. Its dimensions also might be a factor as it comes with a more spacious cabin which favors all the occupants. It might not be the cheapest, but it has desirable traits that its competitors are missing.
The interior is not that impressive for its price.
For its price point, it is inevitable to expect something a bit special about the interior of the 2022 Rav4 HEV, something that will set itself from other cheaper options in the market. However, the interior design is somehow basic and standard. Although to be fair, it comes with decent-looking seats and dashboard panel. However, there is nothing special. There is nothing inside, that will tell you that this car costs more than the others. Nonetheless, it is not the interior design that primarily sells, but the power.
Its steering could be difficult.
There are several technological advancements present in vehicles today, and the Rav4 HEV is no exception. It runs in a hybrid system, a bar above other models in the market. It also comes with several safety and security features that are reliable to the driver and the passengers. However, its steering is difficult to control, which is a disappointment. How would you appreciate several advancements if the basic steering is compromised?
The infotainment touchscreen could be improved.
I have mentioned above that there is nothing special about the interior of the Rav4, and this includes the infotainment display. It comes small, and you could hardly see the details on it even if there is no glare from outside which is difficult, especially for the driver. For its price, it could've been better.
Also Read: Toyota Makes 2022 Rav4 a Hybrid Vehicle