2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Affordable and practical

I’d be lying to you if I said I understand completely how hybrid cars work.

I know there are batteries, and that energy can be regenerated through braking, and I really don’t think there are butch little elves in the car somewhere who make it all happen, despite what some men have told me at beer busts throughout the years.

I’d also be lying to you if I said I got this job as an automotive reviewer based on my stunning good looks and not my skill as a … ya’ know, intellectual. I am pretty good around the corporate cocktail spread and fancy dinner tables where you have two forks, several glasses that break and table linens that really do stain easily.

This year’s RAV4 Hybrid is really something you should check out if you are looking for economy and something fun. It starts at $28,500 US (yeah, yeah, good luck finding that price in today’s car market) and mileage is 41city / 38 highway.

There really is plenty of room for everyone inside BUT, as always, if you can, get in, bring you friends, and go for a spin. Yes, nowadays, doing something as simple as that is next to impossible, I realize.

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At the base LE trim your really don’t get much: one USB port, folding power mirrors, a touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto….and the like.

I will disclose here that I tested the top-tier Limited which had everything and comes in at a base of $37,030 US. Hey, when you are still trying to pay of your Master of Fine Arts degree without any help from Uncle Joe Biden, the jump of almost $10K can make you wish you’d studied…. Social Work? At least there are jobs for men with an MSW.

Most reviewers recommend going right down the middle to the XLE Premium trim, which gives you a sunroof, power liftgate, leather-wrapped steering wheel and simulated leather upholstery. To name a few.

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On top of all that, the RAV4 is great for going off-road – for those of you who truly do go off-road, and by that I don’t mean finding a dirt road for that gay bar that might have a back room where the staff isn’t completely paying attention. I’ve been there. Yes, it is fun.

Next week, I will review the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, which is similar but offers a slightly different drive and some slightly different perks. Be sure to tune in.

Same Bear Channel. Same Bear Time.