We've completed testing of our 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, and discuss how this plug-in hybrid performed, and why it might outshine the Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid. Apple made automotive news recently concerning the potential development of an Apple-branded car produced by Hyundai; we discuss these reports, and consider the many ways the auto industry and big tech companies are converging to impact the car market. Other topics include the Toyota Yaris GR, if a hitch-mounted bike rack could prematurely age your car's springs, and whether adaptive cruise control has an impact on fuel efficiency.
———————————–
Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!
Video version:
Audio version:
Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!
From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!
We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at
Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify:
SHOW NOTES
———————————–
00:00 – Introduction
00:34 – News of potential Apple-branded car produced by Hyundai.
09:19 – 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Test Results
19:41 – Question #1: Why is the Toyota Yaris GR AWD not available in the US?
25:17 – Question #2: Does adaptive cruise control have an effect on fuel efficiency?
26:37 – Question #3: Could having a hitch mounted bike rack over an extended period of time have negative impact on the car’s springs?
———————————-
First Drive: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Is Powerful and Luxurious
2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive
4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive
2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback Gets Bigger and Adds Features
Cadillac’s Super Cruise Outperforms Other Driving Assistance Systems
Coronavirus Resource Hub
———————————–
Check out for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel:
Follow Us on Social:
Facebook:
Twitter:
Pinterest:
Instagram:
Google+:
Tip: Cut the little rubber stopper off of the plug and throw it in the garbage!
Want I want from the RAV4 PRIME;
apply the same formula to the Prius PRIME via larger MG1 motor.
Toyota has been having issues with the 2.5 cracking and possible fires
I must’ve lucked out,mine seems perfectly fine…so far 2020 RAV4 Adventure
I guess at least they caught it early on, and not years down the road like Ford, Hyundai and Kia.
Inductive charging on a car has massive losses. It’s a horrible idea.
The Prime is “more appealing than an EV” is an unbelievable statement. Do these guys believe in climate catastrophe or don’t they? I keep noticing an old, fossil-based mindset at Consumer Reports. They have an online review of space heaters and state it may be more efficient to turn up your whole house furnace than using a space heater in one room!
I’m done clicking on Consumer Reports, goodbye.
Too hard to plug in? Really?
I didn’t know Jake used to work for GM. That’s pretty cool! 🆗✅
We shouldn’t be surprised at these guys work history. I don’t think Jen worked for any manufacturer though unless on the softer side of marketing or PR.
What is even remotely cool about working for one of the worst companies of all-time?
7:22 the Brits should only be responsible for tea and biscuits
LoL. Also accents and funny walks.
What, no BMW or Mercedes reviews this week? The Apple/Hyundai news was everywhere. Apple wants to get into the electric car space and that’s why Electric Jesus Musk immediately responded to the news with his typical child like taunting.
I’d be happy to own the Rav Prime plug in, especially if I had solar panels to charge it.
About that hybrid backup noise: I live in a condo above my garage and my neighbor’s garage. She just bought a new Venza, When she first brought it home I heard the weirdest high pitched woowoowooo sound! Coincidentally I had been having issues with my water heater. When I heard that noise I panicked! My water heater is going to blow! but it was just the Venza.
The Camry and RAV4 hybrids make a screeching noise when in reverse. I always look over and under the car like they have something dragging underneath, all while given a cringing face!
Two handed charging isn’t that big of a hardship is it? … If so just break that internal cover off.
My sister was one of those that forgot about her bike on the roof and drove into a public parking garage, ouch. Jake would surely have shed a tear on that one!
The 2021 Audi RS6 Avant actually is available in the US
Great video. In an earlier Talking Cars video, I remember CR saying that this RAV4 Prime was “Rented.” If I’m mistaken and CR now owns this vehicle, please tell us where you bought it, and for what price from the dealer you paid. Thank you!
Of course Jake would mention specialized 🙄 let’s represent the little guys Pivot, Kona, Niner
I don’t want a full electric car. The extra money isn’t worth it. However, the hybrid of the two makes local trips easy and long road trips doable.
Inductive charging!! Lol dont be so lazy.. they just need to seal the plug with the door so you dont need the cover
I thought it was funny that Jake talked about “really stepping on the gas” to get the Rav4 going when it’s in electric mode. Our driving vocabulary will change over time. I still talk about “rolling down my window” as I push the button 🙂
hey Element guy: there’s a rear alignment kit for your car from the aftermarket–not that expensive. you should find a new alignment shop if yours didn’t know about it!
Why doesn’t the Rav 4 Prime qualify for NY Green Pass?