How Much Ground Clearance Does the RAV4 Prime Have?


Before heading off-road, it’s important to know the total RAV4 Prime ground clearance. Otherwise, there’s no way of determining if this plug-in hybrid SUV can overcome obstacles and rough roads.

In this guide, I discuss the ground clearance of the Toyota RAV4 Prime. I also illustrate how this compares with the other RAV4 models.

Ground Clearance of the Toyota RAV4 Prime

toyota rav4 prime blueprint color front view

The term ground clearance describes the ride height of a vehicle. It’s used to describe how much space is between the bottom of the tire and the lowest point of the vehicle, typically the axle.

The Toyota RAV4 Prime has up to 8.2 in. (20.8 cm.) of ground clearance. The SE trim offers 8.0 in. (20.3 cm.) while the XSE offers 8.2 in. (20.8 cm.).

It’s important to know the ground clearance, not just for clearing obstacles off-road. This measurement is vital to understanding how the vehicle handles in general.

The higher the ground clearance is, the more vertical room the wheels have to travel. Additionally, there’s less of a chance of the underbody or chassis scraping along surfaces that aren’t level.

On the other hand, when ride height increases, so does the center of mass. A higher center of gravity means handling becomes more dangerous and harder to control. Rollover chances also increase on vehicles that are lifted high into the air.

(Wikipedia)

Comparing the RAV4 Prime’s Ground Clearance to Other RAV4 Models

Ground clearance of all RAV4s ranges from 8.1 to 8.6 inches. Here’s a breakdown of the available trims.

  • LE: 8.4”
  • XLE: 8.4”
  • XLE Premium: 8.6”
  • Adventure: 8.6”
  • TRD Off-Road: 8.6”
  • Limited: 8.6”

When it comes to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, all trim levels sit at 8.1”, which is lower than the Prime.

(Toyota)

Beyond the Toyota RAV4 models, here are some different ground clearance measurements among other SUVs in the class.

  • BMW X1: 7.2”
  • BMW X2: 7.2”
  • Toyota bZ4X: 8.1”
  • Volvo XC40: 8.3”
  • Range Rover Evoque: 8.3”
  • Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 8.5”
  • Jeep Renegade: 8.7”
  • Subaru Forester Wilderness: 9.2”

(Motorbiscuit)

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the RAV4 Prime has the power and all-wheel-drive capability to handle mild off-road trails. If you want something more capable, consider the RAV4 TRD Off-Road with its unique suspension, selectable terrain modes, and all-wheel drive.

The Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road and Limited models offer the highest ground clearance. All four of these trim levels provide 8.6” of ground clearance.

The Toyota RAV4 Prime may be a plug-in hybrid, but it offers more ground clearance than several other compact SUVs on the road. For example, both the BMW X1 and X2 only offer 7.2” of ground clearance, giving the RAV4 Prime a significant advantage.

Toyota RAV4 Prime is Ready for the Road Ahead

The exceptional ground clearance rating of the Toyota RAV4 Prime is just one reason this plug-in hybrid is capable. From the standard all-wheel drive configuration to the well-appointed interior, this RAV4 model has it all.

There isn’t much of a difference in ground clearance measurements between the RAV4 Prime and other RAV4 models. Whichever you choose, you know your Toyota SUV is ready to be your partner on a new adventure.

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