Although EV technology is continually evolving, many drivers may still be hesitant to purchase a fully electric vehicle due to range anxiety. For those who wish to improve on a hybrid without fully committing to an EV, plug-in hybrids are a great compromise, and Toyota provides a number of them. The Prius Prime and the RAV4 Prime are the two Toyota plug-in hybrid models that are currently available, according to the automaker’s website. What you need know about this technology and the Toyota cars that offer it is provided below.
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Will Toyota release a plug-in hybrid?
Future Toyota Prime plug-in hybrids will be available. Just be aware that they might not necessarily set the bar for the genre as much as the RAV4 Prime.
That was one of the lessons learned during a recent check-in on Toyota’s electrification strategy with Cooper Ericksen, VP for product planning and strategy at Toyota Motor North America.
However, before anything else, it’s important to note what Toyota is doing differently with plug-in hybrids. It gave new life and excitement to a formula that GM pioneered before giving up on with the Volt, and anyone who doubt plug-in hybrids’ role in the market today need just look at the RAV4 Prime. The Prime makes daily all-electric driving more feasible, as we’ve noted in numerous tests, from a first drive to off-roading, resulting in a car that doesn’t seem burdened by extra weight.
In order to accomplish this, the Prime provides an EPA-rated 42 miles of rangeand even more in all but the coldest weather, based on our practical experience. After that, it operates as a 38-mpg hybrid that is suitable for weekend road trips far from a charging station. Additionally, it sprints to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, faster than any other Toyota model outside the Supra sports vehicle, thanks to its 302 horsepower output.
However, not all of Toyota’s plug-in hybrid vehicles offer that level of performance and range. The Prius Prime achieves 54 mpg overall and 25 miles on electricity alone. However, it takes 10.2 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph.
Will future Prime models have a range that is far greater than the RAV4 Prime’s or even faster acceleration? And will upcoming Prime models have the highest level of performance for any particular model line?
No, not always. It’s really not in the interest of efficiency to carry more energy than you need for a daily commute, according to Ericksen, who first noted that the RAV4 Prime had a peculiar circumstance.
“According to our data, the typical consumer commutes between 20 and 30 miles every day, Ericksen said. ” The secret to a plug-in is to have enough range to complete all of your everyday duties while plugged in in your garage, and then you have the hybrid portion for big journeys, making it one vehicle that, in today’s society, can effectively replace several vehicles.
“Thus, 40 miles is essentially where it has to be from a consumer perspective, Ericksen remarked, possibly to account for considerations like weather. “When you start getting above that, weight and cost are involved.
Toyota plans to keep enhancing the plug-in range of upcoming Prime models, according to Ericksen, without adding weight to the battery.
There is one exemption to that rule, which is based on the California Advanced Clean Cars II legislation, which calls for plug-in hybrids to have an electric range of 50 miles. Explained by Ericksen: “Can we accomplish it in order to receive the credit value? Most likely is; at this moment, we’re rather near. Is that something the client is requesting? In my opinion, no.
Toyota is then anticipated to scale up the Prime formula for the Highlander. Ericksen wouldn’t say for sure, but he implied that using it on larger, heavier cars wouldn’t produce the same range.
“The easier it is to produce range, the smaller, lighter, and more aerodynamic a vehicle is. The capacity to handle three-row SUVs and trucks, however, is one of the biggest needs and one of the worst environmental implications, therefore we believe there is a use case for plug-ins on larger vehicles. But to be honest, driving a massive car like that 50 kilometers would be really challenging.
“Therefore, Ericksen said, “We believe there should be a sliding scale of…what from an engineering standpoint is doable at a reasonable price range.” For a large SUV, this may equate to 25 to 30 miles of pure electric range, whereas 50 miles on a vehicle or a RAV4 Prime might make sense.
Then there is the aspect of performance. Despite the fact that Toyota used the RAV4 Prime as an example of what its hybrid systems can offer with more battery capacity and an upgrade to its propulsion systems with quicker acceleration than the bZ4X electric car it recently revealed, don’t anticipate other Prime models to be the performance leaders.
“No one of those technologies will be the performance apex in our plan, according to Ericksen. “The powertrain’s availability and platform compatibility can vary greatly.
Since the EVs from that brand are more centered on a long range and high performance, those parts will come together differently for Lexus. The RZ 450h is the likely name for the company’s forthcoming model, which the LF-Z concept revealed would have a range of more than 370 miles and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of about three seconds.
By 2030, Toyota wants to sell 70% of electric vehicles in the US, with the bulk of those being hybrids “but, “a sizable part will be PHEVs. Toyota predicts that by that time, sales of battery-electric and fuel-cell vehicles will account for 15% of all sales in the United States.
According to Ericksen, the electrified portion won’t comprise baby steps like mild-hybrid technology; at the very least, they’ll be full hybrids. Toyota recently added hybrid technology to the Tundra pickup and released two models last year that are only available as hybrids: the Sienna minivan and Venza crossover.
While it’s encouraging to see Toyota adopting the hybrid technology it introduced with the Prius more than 20 years ago, perhaps it’s time to fully embrace what comes next with its Prime lineup and EVs.
Will Toyota produce a plug-in hybrid Highlander?
Another justification is the potential increase in fuel efficiency of the Highlander’s plug-in hybrid model. For instance, a RAV4 Prime delivers 94 MPGe of combined electric and gas mileage, compared to a normal RAV4 Hybrid’s 40 mpg. Currently, the Highlander Hybrid gets about 36 mpg.
Is the hybrid Toyota Highlander from 2021 a plug-in?
The Highlander Hybrid utilizes a parallel hybrid system with a 2.5-liter I-4 engine and an electric motor in place of a plug-in hybrid. The total output is 243 horsepower. FWD is the default while AWD is an option when the engine is coupled to a CVT automatic transmission.
Is there a plug-in RAV4 made by Toyota?
It can travel around 40 miles on electricity alone and is extremely efficient in hybrid mode. One of the most sought-after plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) on the market right now is the $38,350 Toyota RAV4 Prime.
How many hybrid electric vehicles has Toyota sold?
514,592 automobiles were sold in the US during the first quarter of 2022, down 14.7 percent from the same period in the previous year, according to Toyota Motor North America, which includes the Toyota and Lexus brands.
The statistics, which are lower than in 2021, indicate that the industry-wide supply issues are having an impact on the Japanese firm as well.
- 450 227 Toyota (down 14.9 percent )
- Lexus: 64,365 (down 13.3 percent )
- Total: 514,592 (down 14.7 percent )
Out of it, 132,938 or roughly 25.8% of the total volume are electrified vehicles (HEV, PHEV, BEV, FCEV):
- Nissan Leaf: 119,938 (down 4.4 percent )
- xEV Lexus: 13,116 (up 0.8 percent )
- Total xEV was 132,938 (down 3.9%), making up 25.8% of the volume.
Despite Lexus introducing its first PHEV, sales of plug-in electric vehicles have sadly fallen compared to the previous year. The percentage of plug-ins in the entire volume is still quite low (1.6%), but on the plus side, there is only upward movement.
- 7,819 Toyota plug-ins (down 20 percent )
- Plug-ins for Lexus: 605 (new)
- 8,424 plug-ins in total, down 14%, making up 1.6% of the volume, including 715 FCEVs (down 17.7 percent )
Toyota plug-in electric car sales in the US – Q1 2022
Toyota collectively delivered more than 198,000 plug-in electric vehicles, so shortly we should learn for sure whether the 200,000 threshold for federal tax credits has been reached (which triggers the start of the phase-out of the incentive).
The Prius Prime in 2022 is it a plug-in hybrid?
Because we want to make it simple for you to find the precise vehicle you’re looking for, we’ve partnered with Carvana.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain in every Prius Prime model is the same, and it can travel up to 25 miles on energy alone. Your choice of Prime’s standard features will be the most important one. Even the base LE comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense-P suite of active safety technologies, which also includes a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, automated emergency braking with pedestrian recognition, and adaptive cruise control. A large 11.6-inch screen and wireless charging are included with the intermediate XLE. The top-tier Limited model comes with many more features for not a lot more money, including a color head-up display, park assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rain-sensing wipers. Nevertheless, the XLE comes in just over $30,000 and has the most of the features you’d want, so we still suggest it.
Will Lexus release a plug-in hybrid?
LEXUS PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC, A FIRST This is the fastest and most powerful NX yet, with a 060 time of only 6.0 seconds* and astonishing 304 total system horsepower. The NX 450h+ AWD is as astonishing as it is thrilling, with an EPA-estimated electric range of 37 miles*. restricted accessibility.
What are the drawbacks of the hybrid Toyota Highlander?
The 2022 Toyota Highlander is one of the more well-liked options for a third-row SUV, even if it is only a few model years into its current generation. Although the Highlander was already extremely proficient at handling, even for a big bulky SUV, the sporty new XSE trim level from the previous year added a sport-tuned suspension. Having a powerful V6 engine and comfortable seats as standard equipment is a major plus.
The Highlander’s main issue, though, is the third row of seats. The crowded third row persisted in being crowded despite the revamp in 2020. Additionally, for a third-row SUV, the cargo space feels really limited behind that. Some of the Highlander’s main competitors offer significantly more room for both freight and passengers.
In spite of this, the Highlander is a peaceful and cozy vehicle (provided you’re not crammed into the third row, that is). The V6 engine produces a respectable amount of power while exhibiting respectable fuel efficiency for this market. Although there are many driver aids to aid with outward vision, this SUV is very easy to see out of.
Will the Highlander, however, suffice for your needs? We’ll discuss what’s new for 2022, what we like and want to alter about the Highlander, and how it compares to some of its primary competitors.
The Toyota Highlander for 2022 hasn’t undergone any revisions from Toyota. A complete makeover that took place in 2020 added increased cargo room and smartphone app connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new XSE trim level, which is sporty, debuted in 2021.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Toyota HighlanderThe Pros
1. The V6 Responds With Power
The strong yet strangely fuel-efficient V6 engine of the 2022 Toyota Highlander is the one feature that really sticks out about the vehicle. This 3.5-liter V6 engine produces a respectable 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque when mated to an 8-speed automated transmission that sends power to the front wheels. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, which is faster than the majority of third-row SUVs. In fact, that puts the Highlander and the quick Kia Telluride neck and neck.
2. Above average Handling
The Highlander’s handling exceeds what you might anticipate from a third-row SUV. Toyota made an effort to make sure that this new generation could better manage winding roads and had superior body roll control. Choosing the torque-vectoring AWD system gives power to certain rear wheels to increase grip and improve handling balance. Although choosing the adaptive suspension improves handling significantly, it is still enough without it.
3. Comfortable Ride Features
The Highlander provides a fairly comfortable ride quality that is compliant and smooth. On the highway, the suspension avoids feeling floaty and promptly absorbs both big and little bumps. Overall, the ride is comfortable and pleasurable enough for long distances.
4. A Peaceful Cabin
The Highlander’s cabin maintains its calmness even when you accelerate it down the highway. The engine runs softly, and very little road or wind noise enters the vehicle. You won’t have to stress about turning the music up loud or having trouble hearing your children in the third row.
5. Unobscured Outside Visibility
There is a wide field of view from the cockpit. The narrow roof pillars and large windows of the Highlander provide you a good view of everything around it. While cornering, you can see pretty clearly, which is something not all large SUVs allow you to accomplish. You have an excellent view of what is behind and to the side of the Highlander thanks to the rear-view camera and optional blind-spot monitoring system, if you need it. Even though you get a clear vision from every angle thanks to the top-down 360-degree surround-view camera, you probably won’t need it.
6. A 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen is available.
The conventional 8-inch touchscreen system functions flawlessly and has less glare, but the 12.3-inch infotainment display offers large, bright readouts with crisp graphics. The user interface is straightforward, and you can easily navigate the menus. Those who aren’t very tech-savvy should find the short learning curve appealing.
7. Many Driver Aids Are Included as Standard
Toyota includes a ton of common driver assistance features. Every trim level of their vehicle comes standard with their Safety Sense suite, which includes automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, a traffic sign reader, and front collision mitigation. Blind-spot monitoring is added by moving up one trim to the LE, while front and rear parking sensors are added by moving up to the Limited. Adaptive headlights, a digital rearview, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, and a head-up display are included with the Platinum trim, which is the top of the line.
8. Generous Spaces for Storing Small Items
There are many suitable locations for storing small items throughout the cabin. Large drinks can fit in the cupholders, and one of the two dash-mounted shelves has a phone cable holder built into it. You may store your iPads, iPhones, and books in the pockets, which are also quite roomy.
9. A user-friendly LATCH system
It’s easy to install child safety seats in the second row using the LATCH system. There is ample space for even rear-facing seats to fit back there. It’s simple to go to the anchors. Getting the second row captain’s seats available streamlines the procedure even further.
10. Outstanding Fuel Economy
The Highlander’s V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 23 mpg for all-wheel drive models and 24 mpg for front-wheel drive vehicles. Even while this offers around 1-2 more miles per gallon than the competition, in this market, that is a significant difference. Real-world testing confirms The Higlander’s EPA projections.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Toyota HighlanderThe Cons
1. Navigates Like a Heavy Vehicle
The 2022 Toyota Highlander moves like a big vehicle because it is one. Driving the Highlander through congested parking lots will make you aware of it. If you’ve never operated a third-row SUV before, you might feel more like the captain of a boat than the driver of a car for the road.
2. A Squeezing Third Row
The third row of the Highlander is constrained, and even the 2020 makeover couldn’t provide it much more room. Small children might fit back there, but older kids or adults are very clearly not its intended audience. Since you will require more cargo room, it is usually advisable to remove the seats from the third row if you don’t use it frequently.
3. Limited Cargo Room
Behind the third row, there is only 16 cubic feet of cargo room. This is really small for the segment and gives you very little room to maneuver. The third row can be removed to provide a better-than-average space with 48.4 cubes, though. If you need the cargo capacity, just don’t anticipate using the third row much.
4. Less economical than other third-row SUVs
Comparing the Highlander to its competitors, it is generally lacking in value. It is a little more expensive and has fewer basic amenities than other third-row SUVs. When compared to comparable vehicles in its segment, the interior materials and general design are also only mediocre. Some models’ build quality may also be in doubt because buyers or those who have tested the car have mentioned hearing little creaks on the driver’s side.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
The 2022 Kia Telluride is a formidable vehicle, offering owners a smooth ride and seats that are designed for all-day enjoyment. You get a ton of standard entertainment features and driving aids for the price you pay. It’s perfect for families who want a roomy third row because the interior space feels far larger than that of many third-row SUVs. There aren’t many places you can utilize to store little items, which is its one flaw.
Another formidable contender in the third-row SUV market is the 2022 Honda Pilot. The Pilot provides a lot of value despite having a few extra-sensitive driver aids (particularly adaptive cruise control and the collision warning) and a tight third-row entrance. It boasts roomy seats in both rows of the backseat and is quite versatile both within the cabin and in the cargo area. You still have a compliant and smooth ride, and this car gets respectable fuel efficiency.
The third-row SUV market is fiercely competitive in 2022 thanks to the Toyota Highlander. It rules with a strong V6 engine that also provides exceptional fuel efficiency. This is a significant benefit in a market where fuel efficiency is a concern. The Highlander is designed for the daily driver who has a family to transport. It is padded for comfort and provides a smooth ride. Just don’t expect the children to be too comfortable on the third row of seats. Additionally, even with all of the seats upright, the cargo room might not be big enough. In some ways, The Highlander is a mixed bag. But a lot of buyers are drawn to the mixed bag.