The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is one of the most sought-after SUVs on the market and one of their more successful bestselling vehicles. The compact crossover SUV has two platforms, with one focusing on a gas-powered powertrain and the other two sharing that focus with an electric battery. While all three, the RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, and RAV4 PHEV are among Toyota’s most well-rounded vehicles, the RAV4 Hybrid goes the extra mile in terms of efficiency.

Base Trim Engine

Dynamic Force Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

CVT

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

176 HP @5700 RPM

Base Trim Torque

163 lb.-ft. @ 3600 RPM

Many automotive manufacturers are known for various characteristics such as performance, luxury, or practicality, but Toyota doesn’t limit their vehicles to just one. Not only is the RAV4 aesthetically pleasing with its rugged look, but it also has a desirable price tag. Toyota keeping its RAV4 at an affordable price is nice and all, but it’s the cherry on top if the SUV doesn’t lose out on its value in the long run.

Why the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Holds Its Value

The fifth-generation RAV4, launched in 2018, offers solid statistics that address common vehicle ownership concerns, particularly depreciation and associated costs.

Depreciation: A Look at Value Retention

According to Edmund’s cost-to-own calculator, the base model RAV4 Hybrid LE depreciates by approximately $4,629 within the first year, while the RAV4 Limited experiences a higher depreciation of $9,258. While cars typically lose around 10% of their value immediately upon leaving the dealership, factors such as the number of owners and vehicle desirability also play a role in depreciation rates. However, data suggests strong ownership satisfaction contributes to the RAV4 Hybrid’s slow depreciation.

Year 1 Ownership Costs: A Trim-Level Comparison

Despite potential initial depreciation, the RAV4 Hybrid benefits from low maintenance and repair costs. Owners can typically expect no repairs within the first two years, contributing to its slow depreciation. Even after five years, average repair costs remain relatively low at $704, further supporting the vehicle’s overall value retention.

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Reliability and Practicality: Cornerstones of Value

While reliability scores for the 2024 RAV4 Hybrid are yet to be determined, the 2023 model earned a predicted reliability score of 52/100 from ConsumerReports. Coupled with limited weaknesses and apparent strengths, this data underscores the RAV4 Hybrid’s overall reliability.

Projected Reliability: Promising Outlook

The 2024 RAV4 Hybrid boasts a predicted reliability score of 66/100, surpassing the previous year’s score. Even with scores in the fifties and sixties, the RAV4 Hybrid remains more reliable than the average car.

Safety and Owner Satisfaction: Further Contributing Factors

Practicality, encompassing owner satisfaction, minimal factory defects/recalls, and safety, plays a pivotal role in a vehicle’s value. The RAV4 Hybrid’s impressive safety ratings contribute to both reliability and practicality, bolstering owner satisfaction. With a four-out-of-five rating for owner satisfaction and only one recall for the 2023 model, the RAV4 Hybrid demonstrates strong reliability and practicality, mitigating depreciation risks.

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