So, you’ve got your heart set on a hybrid RAV4! Now, it’s time to pick out the perfect trim and features. Let’s take a closer look at two of the most popular options: the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE and the XLE trims.
First off, we’ll compare the insides, outsides, and all the nifty features of both models. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a clear idea of which one suits you best. Now, let’s delve into the details of Toyota Rav4 Hybrid LE vs XLE.
Exterior Design
Let’s start by taking a closer look at the sizes of both RAV4 models. If you check the numbers, you’ll see that they’re pretty close.
- Wheelbase: 105.9 inches
- Overall length/width: 180.9 inches/73.0 inches
- Height: 67.0 inches
- Track (front/rear): 63.0 inches/63.7 inches
When it comes to colors, it’s essential to know what options you have. Both the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE and XLE trims offer three colors:
- Ice Cap
- Midnight Black Metallic
- Ruby Flare Pearl
But if you’re eyeing the Hybrid XLE, you get four more color choices:
- Blueprint
- Lunar Rock
- Magnetic Gray Metallic
- Silver Sky Metallic
Moving on to the exterior features, there are some cool things both trims have in common:
- 17-inch 5-spoke Light Gray alloy wheels
- LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
- Active grille shutters
- Privacy glass
- Low-profile black roof rails
- Dual chrome-tipped exhaust
- LED taillights
- Integrated LED fog lights
Both models come with a rear window wiper that works intermittently. However, the Hybrid LE has intermittent windshield wipers, while the XLE has variable intermittent ones.
Also, notice the differences in the side mirrors:
- The Hybrid LE has black power outside mirrors with a folding feature.
- The XLE’s mirrors are color-keyed, and heated, and integrate turn signal and blind-spot warning indicators.
These small variations can make a big difference in your driving experience!
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Interior Design
Let’s dive into the insides of these RAV4 models and see what sets them apart.
First, let’s talk about the space inside both the Hybrid LE and XLE. They can both fit five people comfortably and they have pretty similar measurements:
- Seating capacity: 5
- Cargo length behind the rear seat: 40.0 inches
- Cargo minimum/maximum width: 39.4 inches/59.0 inches
- Cargo minimum/maximum height: 34.5 inches/36.6 inches
- EPA interior volume: 136.4 cubic feet
- EPA passenger volume: 98.9 cubic feet
- Headroom with the moonroof: 37.7 inches/39.5 inches
- Legroom: 41.0 inches/37.8 inches
- Shoulder room: 57.8 inches/56.4 inches
- Hip room: 54.3 inches/47.7 inches
There’s a slight difference in cargo space, but it’s minimal. Both have around 69.8 cubic feet for storage, with the Hybrid LE having 37.6 cubic feet in the rear and the XLE with 37.5 cubic feet. You probably won’t even notice the difference.
When it comes to colors inside, both models offer Black Fabric seats, but the XLE also has an Ash Fabric option.
Now, let’s talk about comfort features. Both models come with:
- Rear liftgate window defogger
- 4-way front passenger seat
- Height-adjustable rear cargo area deckboard
- Cargo area deckside-mounted storage net
- 4 cup holders
- Four bottle holders
- Power windows
- 60/40-split fold-flat rear seat
- Day/night rearview mirror
- Dual-zone automatic climate control system
The main difference here is the driver’s seat. In the Hybrid LE, it’s a 6-way power-adjustable seat, but in the XLE, it’s an 8-way power-adjustable seat with lumbar support. Also, the XLE comes with a tonneau cover for the cargo area that the LE doesn’t have.
Lastly, notice the interior door handle design. The Hybrid LE has black handles, while the XLE has silver handles. It’s these little touches that make each model unique!
Technology and Safety
Let’s talk about the tech and safety features of these RAV4s. Both of them come with some cool gadgets, so let’s start with what they have in common.
You’ll find these features in both the Hybrid LE and XLE:
- One 12V/120W auxiliary power outlet
- Digital speedometer
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®
- Android Auto™
- 6-speaker stereo system
- 7-inch digital Multi-Information display
- 8-inch Audio Multimedia display
Now, here’s where they differ a bit: the number of USB ports. The Hybrid LE has three, while the XLE has five. So, if you’ve got a lot of gadgets to charge, the XLE might be more convenient.
When it comes to safety, both models are pretty much on par. They come with:
- Eight airbags
- Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)
- Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Backup camera with dynamic gridlines
- Trailer-Sway Control (TSC)
Both of them also have the Star Safety System™, which includes:
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist (BA)
- Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Smart Stop Technology® (SST)
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
- Traction Control (TRAC)
What makes the RAV4 stand out in terms of safety is the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 (TSS 2.5) system. Both models have it, and it includes:
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
- Automatic High Beams (AHB)
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
The only difference in safety features is that the Hybrid XLE comes with a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with a Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA). So, if you want a bit more assistance on the road, the XLE might be the way to go.
Cost
Let’s talk about the prices of these RAV4s and what you get for your money. The price bump for the 2023 models might raise some eyebrows, but it’s not as steep as some might fear. Still, there’s a noticeable difference between the two trims.
The Hybrid LE starts at $30,225, while the Hybrid XLE comes in at $31,735. That’s a gap of $1,510 between them. With such a small price difference, you might not expect a ton of extra features.
Here are the main things that set them apart:
- The Hybrid XLE has an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, whereas the LE has a 6-way one.
- Inside, the XLE has silver interior door handles, while the LE has black ones.
- The windshield wipers differ too: the LE has intermittent ones, while the XLE has variable intermittent ones.
- And then there are the side mirrors: the LE has black power outside mirrors, while the XLE has color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and blind spot warning indicators.
Other than these, there aren’t many differences that significantly affect the price. So, it’s all about choosing the features that matter most to you!
Which One Should You Buy?
Deciding between the RAV4 Hybrid LE and XLE depends on your preferences and priorities. Let’s break it down.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers great features, the Hybrid LE might be the way to go. It comes at a slightly lower price point and offers a solid set of standard features. However, if you’re willing to invest a bit more for added comfort and convenience, the XLE could be worth considering.
The Hybrid XLE offers some upgrades that might enhance your driving experience, like an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, variable intermittent windshield wipers, and color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with integrated turn signal and blind spot warning indicators. These features can add extra comfort, convenience, and safety to your daily drives.
Ultimately, it comes down to your budget and what features matter most to you. If you prioritize affordability without sacrificing too much in terms of features, the Hybrid LE is a solid choice. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more for additional amenities and comfort, the Hybrid XLE might be the better option for you. Take a test drive of both models to see which one feels right for your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you choose the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE or XLE depends on your priorities and budget. The LE offers affordability with decent features, while the XLE provides added comfort and convenience for a slightly higher price. Consider your needs carefully and take a test drive to determine which model suits you best.
