If a RAV4 came out with a hybrid model that was only FWD, I'd have to think a lot harder about it than with an AWD model. Maybe my wife will disagree, but I have little interest in a FWD SUV, hybrid or not.
Just like they were wise to launch a 4 cylinder Camry Hybrid (when the Accord Hybrid was a V6), they would be wise to launch an AWD hybrid because AWD sells in Canada. I've heard Lexus has been asking TMC to offer AWD hybrids (aside from the RXh and LS600h L). An AWD ES300h or IS300h or GS450h will sell better.
I'd consider buying an IS300h hybrid with AWD. Actually, what I was waiting for was a Prius Gen IV with AWD, until my 2004 Prius got destroyed. Mind you, I'm excited to have lucked into finding a Prius Plug-in for a good price.
Particularly the F-Sport version. The ISh's battery is located where the spare tire would be - a first for Toyota. It means it retains the full 60/40 split folding seat (unlike the Camry Hybrid which has a pass-through on the passenger side) Car review: Lexus IS 300h F-Sport driven - road test - BBC Top Gear Can't find the Fifth Gear Team Test of the IS300h. Here's a dutch version (turn on subtitles to see the English translation, unless you know Dutch)
Wouldn't an AWD car hybrid from Toyota require a larger battery pack to have enough energy available for that third motor? Which is already problematic for these cars. Ford just wasn't selling enough of the Escape hybrid.There is the large gap between the city ratings, but the highway between the current Escape and the old hybrid is close. Ford arrived at the conclusion that there wasn't enough potential buyers of the AWD Escap hybrid to keep it available. They also likely wanted to stop dealing with Aisin for the trans axle, which would have meant splitting their production between three models if they kept the Escape
Lexus just introduced the AWD hybrid NX 300h, presumably based on the success of the RAV4 size and the success of the AWD hybrid RX 450h.
It's up to the inverter to and PSD to divvy up the power, no? Plus the rear electric motor means more regen!
I guess the other possibility that hasn't been mentioned is the remote possibility of a Prius-branded AWD crossover/SUV. The Prius v doesn't count. It's more of a squashed minivan IMO. do not know if it'd get AWD though, like competitors' station wagons. However, personally I think a RAV4 hybrid would be more likely than a Prius SUV, if not this coming year, then the next (assuming oil prices start to climb back up).
I wonder if the C-HR will be a Prius crossover. Maybe Toyota's testing the market to see if a compact or subcompact Prius-branded cute-ute will fly.
I wish they'd make a sienna hybrid. I'd get one of those for my wife. We need one vehicle that's huge, but a hybrid would be good.
We might see the smaller hybrid minivans Toyota has in Japan, but likely not an American size one. Right now, it appears the mpg gain isn't worth the price; see the HiHy.
Hmmm... Only the RAV4 Limited Edition includes the Smart Key System, Push Button Start, and Power Back Door. I've been spoiled by my Package B 2004 Prius and Tech Package 2012 Plug-in with the Smart Key System. I think we'd have to get that in a RAV4. If they were to introduce a hybrid, hopefully its base would be closer to the Limited with these tech features, given the inevitable significant price premium for the hybrid. I might prefer the premium fabric (like in the XLE) over the SofTex faux leather though, that is, if we didn't have young kids.
I loved the Smart Key System on my 2005 Prius. Don't miss it though. Power windows and mirrors are much harder to give up.
I want all of the above. I don't actually like power seats that much though, and I don't give a hoot about heated seats either.
Power windows/mirrors are a must. Would like heated seats for hypermiling purposes. With SKS, I got tired of trying to open the house door without the key.
