[Variman]

Thanks, good to know. The Rav4 Hybrid Limited and Highlander XLE are what I am looking at. I would have to agree the Highlander has Lexus like interior and comfort. The Rav4 is easier to drive in traffic and park. The dealer provided prices for both and were about the same. Overall the Highlander is the better value, however it ultimately comes down to what I want to drive for the next 10 years. I am going to rent both again and make a decision.

Can you get these deep $7K discounts on the hybrid Highlander?

Generally, the Highlander is based on the Avalon, while the Rav is based on the Camry. The lines are a little blurred now due to TNGA but that's the gist of it.

As others have stated, the Highlander is a new model too. Hopefully since Toyota had more margins to work with, quality is higher?

I say, if you have to garage room, the money, get the Highlander Hybrid with the 1500 watt inverter! Probably close to $50K as I think you need to get the Platinum trim or close to it for that feature.

The idea of renting both is great. I had no idea that Toyota rented until I joined Rav4 World! I recommend this to anyone considering buying a Toyota.

 

[Variman]

You are right about hybrid being underpowered while ICE variant has good pep. It really needs v6 hybrid like it was before

Or maybe a plug in version with 300+HP?

I don't see Toyota ever going back to 6 cylinder hybrids of any type in their unibody cars, perhaps body on frame trucks? We will see with the upcoming Tacoma and Tundra, if Ford can do it, Toyota can or should at least have a hybrid version.