How fast is a Toyota RAV4 0 to 60?

The quickest RAV4 is the plug‑in hybrid Prime, typically in the mid‑5‑second range; the regular hybrid tends to land in the high 7‑second range, and the gasoline‑only RAV4 usually runs in the high 8s to low 9s for 0–60 mph. Real‑world results vary with year, drivetrain, tires, and launch conditions.

This article breaks down those numbers, explains what factors influence them, and compares the different trims in the current RAV4 lineup.

What factors influence 0–60 times in a RAV4

Acceleration depends on the powertrain, the vehicle’s weight, drivetrain (front‑ vs all‑wheel drive), tire grip, and how aggressively the launch is executed. Plug‑in hybrids like the Prime have the advantage of electric torque, while base gasoline models rely entirely on the internal combustion engine and transmission. Testing conditions, such as elevation and surface grip, can noticeably shift the numbers.

Model-by-model breakdown

RAV4 Gas (non-hybrid)

Below are typical ranges for the gasoline‑only RAV4, which uses a 2.5L four‑cylinder engine. Times vary by model year and drivetrain configuration.

• 2WD: approximately 8.5–9.5 seconds


• AWD: approximately 9.0–9.8 seconds

Note: These figures reflect common lately‑produced trims and can shift with tire type, gearing, and road surface. Always check manufacturer and independent tests for the exact year you’re considering.

RAV4 Hybrid

The hybrid combines the petrol engine with electric motors for incremental torque, yielding stronger off‑the‑line performance than the gas model while staying efficient.

• 2WD (hybrid): roughly 7.5–8.2 seconds


• AWD (hybrid): roughly 7.8–8.5 seconds

Across model years, the hybrid typically posts a noticeable (but not dramatic) improvement over the gas version thanks to electric assist, though it remains slower than the Prime plug‑in in straight‑line acceleration.

RAV4 Prime (Plug-in Hybrid)

The Prime is the performance leader in the current RAV4 lineup, leveraging a larger combined system output and electric torque for brisk acceleration.

• 0–60 mph (prime, typical conditions): about 5.5–6.0 seconds

Under ideal conditions with good traction and a fully charged battery, the Prime’s electric motor can pull significantly quicker off the line, while cooler temperatures, tire grip, and launch technique can push times a bit higher. Independent tests often place it in the mid‑5 to low‑6 seconds range depending on the year and test method.

Practical considerations for buyers

When evaluating 0–60 times, buyers should consider daily usability versus peak performance. The Prime offers the fastest acceleration but carries a higher price and battery weight that can affect handling and fuel economy in non‑electric driving. The Hybrid provides a strong balance of efficiency and response, while the Gas model prioritizes straightforward cost and simplicity. Tire choice, transmission response, and weather conditions can have as much impact on measured times as the powertrain itself.

Recent updates and year-to-year differences

Powertrain calibrations and ergonomics have evolved across model years. The Prime’s electric‑drive characteristics improved with later revisions, while the Hybrid and Gas versions saw incremental tuning for smoother shifts and better efficiency. To get the most accurate numbers for a specific vehicle, consult the latest manufacturer claims and independent test results for that exact year and configuration.

Summary

In summary, the Toyota RAV4 lineup offers a clear hierarchy in 0–60 performance: the Prime plug‑inHybrid leads the pack with roughly 5.5–6.0 seconds, the Hybrid sits around the high 7‑ to low 8‑second range, and the Gas model typically lands in the high 8s to low 9s. Real‑world results will vary based on drivetrain, tires, battery charge, and testing conditions, so potential buyers should consider both official estimates and independent test data for their preferred year and trim.

Quick reference times by trim (typical recent years)

Before relying on the numbers below, note that conditions matter. The following provide a practical snapshot across common configurations.

• Gas: 2WD 8.5–9.5 s; AWD 9.0–9.8 s


• Hybrid: 2WD 7.5–8.2 s; AWD 7.8–8.5 s


• Prime: around 5.5–6.0 s (0–60 mph)

These ranges reflect typical results from recent model years and may shift with new updates, tires, and testing conditions. For precise figures, check the specific model year and configuration you’re considering.

Bottom line

The RAV4’s speed varies significantly across its lineup. If speed is your priority, the Prime is the standout, followed by the Hybrid, with the Gas variant the slowest in straight‑line acceleration. Always verify current specifications from Toyota and corroborate with independent testing for your exact vehicle and conditions.

Conclusion

Whether you want brisk daily acceleration (Prime), efficient everyday driving (Hybrid), or a simple, reliable ride (Gas), the RAV4 family offers options that align with different performance preferences. Understanding the 0–60 landscape helps buyers set realistic expectations and choose the trim that best fits their driving needs.

What is the fastest 0-60 Toyota SUV?

The fastest production Toyota SUV is the 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 to 5.96 seconds, powered by its 437-horsepower i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine. However, the upcoming 2026 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is advertised with a 5.6-second 0-60 mph time, and the Toyota C-HR+ prototype (also known as the bZ Compact SUV) achieved a 5-second 0-60 mph time, although its production status and market availability are still being confirmed. 
You can watch this video to see a 0-60 mph test of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro: 1mACCELER8 ShortsYouTube · Feb 17, 2024
Production models

• 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro: 0-60 mph in as little as 5.6 seconds. This is the fastest currently available production SUV from Toyota.
  • Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 hybrid
  • Horsepower: 437 hp 

You can watch this video to see a 0-60 mph test of the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max: 48sACCELER8 ShortsYouTube · Oct 25, 2023
Upcoming or prototype models

• 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid: Advertised 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds. 
• Toyota C-HR+ (or bZ Compact SUV): Prototype has achieved a 5.0 to 5.1-second 0-60 mph time, but it is not yet in mass production for all markets. 
  • Engine: 338 horsepower 
  • Performance: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.2 seconds 

Previous generation models

• 2006–2013 Toyota RAV4 V6: This older model was very quick for its time, with a 0-60 mph time of about 6.5 seconds. 

Does the RAV4 have good acceleration?

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the speediest Toyota models to grace the freeways of Albuquerque. When measured for speed tests, the Toyota RAV4 can reach just under six seconds from 0 to 60!

How fast does a RAV4 go from 0 to 60?

You know almost 4,000 ft above sea level. This this little Rav. 4 it hauls when it's unloaded. And it does a pretty good. Job. Even when it is loaded with more people. But let me put it into park.

What's the most common problem with a Toyota RAV4?

Common problems with the Toyota RAV4 include issues with the automatic transmission in older models, engine oil consumption in some four-cylinder engines, and various electrical faults like infotainment screen freezes or 12-volt battery drains. Additionally, recent models have seen reports of hybrid floor wire corrosion, and some specific model years have experienced issues like front suspension arm cracks, faulty fuel pumps, or liftgate hinge failures. 
This video discusses common problems with the Toyota RAV4, including transmission, engine, and electrical issues: 52sFuel ForceYouTube · Nov 16, 2024
Common problems by category 
This video explains how to avoid common mistakes when driving a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which can affect its performance and efficiency: 56sToyota WorldYouTube · Jul 3, 2025
Transmission

• Older models: Rough or jerky shifting due to a computer-transmission communication issue. 
• Higher mileage: Rough shifting, delayed engagement, and grinding noises in 8-speed automatic transmissions. 
• Other issues: Faulty solenoids that prevent the transmission from engaging certain gears. 

Engine 

• Oil consumption: Some four-cylinder engines are known to burn excessive oil, requiring more frequent top-offs. 
• Stalling: Intermittent stalling or rough running, sometimes linked to fuel system problems. 
• Fuel pump failure: Diagnostic codes like P0171 (System Too Lean) often point to a failing fuel pump, which can cause stalling and disengage the all-wheel drive. 
• Coolant bypass valve defect: Some models may experience overheating and stalling due to a faulty bypass valve. 

Electrical

• Infotainment system: Frozen screens and other malfunctions are reported. 
• Battery drain: Unexpected draining of the 12-volt battery, sometimes requiring firmware or hardware updates. 
• Sensor faults: Sporadic sensor issues have been noted. 
• Lane-assist malfunction: Some vehicles experience unexpected swerving or jerking due to faulty lane-assist systems. 

Other issues

• Brake squeal: Light-to-moderate brake squeal has been reported on some recent model years. 
• Suspension: Older models have had rear suspension hardware issues that can affect alignment. 
• Hybrid floor wire corrosion: Some hybrid models have a problem with the wiring harness under the floor corroding, which can cause radio issues and requires replacement. 
• Fuel tank: Certain models have a defect where the fuel pump clicks off early, preventing the tank from filling completely. 
• Liftgate hinge: Lawsuits have been filed regarding premature failure of power liftgate hinges on some 2014–2021 models. 

You can watch this video to see what goes wrong with used Toyota RAV4s: 56sEveryman DriverYouTube · Jun 9, 2025