The RAV4 hybrid noise issue has been on a long-running thread with over 90 posts, and I have finally found a solution. I’ve gotten rid of the noise from my 2021 Rav4 hybrid by replacing the noise generator speaker with a 4 ohm, 20 watt ceramic resistor. This is not a difficult or expensive solution. The noise is so distracting, and the car isn’t as quiet as I would like it to be. It’s also important to note that blind people depend on sound to help them navigate through their environment.
Plug-in hybrid
The RAV4 Plug-in features a retuned suspension that uses the same double wishbone rear suspension found in the hybrid model. Combined with the vehicle’s low center of gravity, the suspension is now much stiffer. Drivers can choose between normal, sport, and eco driving modes, depending on their needs. Toyota says the plug-in hybrid is “future proof” because it uses more powerful on-board chargers.
Ride quality
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 hybrid’s build quality is comparable to that of the rival Camry and Avalon. This car is built on the TNGA-K platform and features high tensile steel. The ride quality is similar to the Toyota Camry, with the exception of the hybrid’s softer suspension. The 2021 Rav4 hybrid’s ride quality is better than its predecessor, and its EPA-estimated fuel efficiency is impressive.
Interior
The interior of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is reminiscent of a luxury car. It is spacious and comfortable, and features such features as SofTex(r)-trimmed seats, a eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with two-position memory, and a panoramic glass roof. Its hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors to deliver a combined 219 horsepower.
Price
The price of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 hybrid starts at $31,460. The price of the 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid is $29,530. The hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4 is likely to start around the same price. The base on-board charger is 3 kW, but you can get a 6.6-kW version if you’re willing to spend the extra money. The RAV4 is available with either a 120V or 230V power outlet, which is handy for those who frequently travel abroad. Toyota backs its hybrid battery with a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty, and you can transfer it between ownerships. Hybrid-related components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles.
Noise level
One question that has plagued many RAV4 owners is the noise level of the hybrid model. Fortunately, there is a solution! As of September 2016, all Toyota RAV4 hybrid models must be able to produce noise of 18 decibels or less in forward and reverse gear. It turns out that this is not a particularly high threshold, and there are a lot of other options to help improve the noise level.
XLE vs Premium trim levels
The differences between the XLE and Premium trim levels of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 hybrid aren’t that drastic. While the basic trim level offers a well-equipped interior with leather seats and an 11-speaker JBL audio system, the XLE Premium comes with additional standard equipment and adds a host of safety features, including automatic braking and rear cross-traffic alert.
XSE trim level
The XSE trim level of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 hybrid is noisier than its predecessor, which debuted in 2015. The noise comes from the vehicle’s engine and the continuous sound it makes while in reverse. It’s hard to pinpoint the source, but it’s probably the exhaust system. XSE hybrids cost a bit more than the basic model, so it’s possible to turn it off by adjusting the settings on the dashboard.
XLE price
The LE trim offers a plethora of features, including LED headlights surrounded by black bezels. The XLE adds heated mirrors with turn signals, a power tailgate and sunroof, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The XLE adds a JBL audio system, proximity entry, heated steering wheel and side mirrors, and an eight-way power driver’s seat. XLE trim models add features like front and rear parking sensors, heated seats, and auto-up/down windows.
