2022 Toyota RAV4 SE Hybrid debuts as more affordable midrange trim

Toyota is marking the 25^th anniversary of the RAV4 in North America by making a variety of updates across the range, plus a new addition to the family. The new SE Hybrid trim level for the 2022 model year slots below the $34,850 XSE Hybrid and will therefore have a more attainable asking price by carrying a shorter list of standard equipment compared to the superior grade.

Nevertheless, it’s still generously equipped as the 2022 RAV4 SE Hybrid is positioned somewhere in the middle of the range, slotting above the $30,195 XLE Hybrid. It comes with monotone paint, fabric seats, and a seven-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. You also get an audio system with six speakers, plus a multitude of optional packages available at an additional cost.

One relevant example is the weather package, which adds a heated steering wheel wrapped in leather, automatic windshield wipers, and heated front seats. The RAV4 in the new SE Hybrid flavor can also be had with a Convenience Package encompassing a height-adjustable electric tailgate, a nine-inch touchscreen, and a moonroof.

Much like the XSE trim, the new SE can be ordered with a Cavalry Blue paint with a black roof, which is trickling down from the rugged TRD Off-Road variant. All grades now have a locking glovebox and LED lights inside, while fresh alloy wheels are available for the LE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, XLE Premium Hybrid, Limited Hybrid, and XSE Hybrid. The latter is also fitted going forward with the more modern vertical lights we originally saw last year on the XSE Prime.

Toyota says it will have full details about the 2022 RAV4 lineup in mid-December, with sales likely to kick off early next year. It’s unclear how much the new SE Hybrid will cost before adding the two extra packages, but it should cost less than $34,000.

Source: Toyota