Toyota RAV4

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 introduced the fifth-generation SUV with tougher looks and a much-needed technology update. It launched with five trim levels and a fuel-efficient hybrid and powerful plug-in hybrid models. The base LE offers standard driver aids and smartphone integration, while the XLE adds more conveniences and blind-spot warning. The XLE Premium introduces synthetic leather, a power liftgate, and a sunroof. The range-topping Limited gets a premium stereo, a larger touchscreen, navigation, and more.

Toyota also offered the Adventure trim, with a slightly raised ride height, increased towing capacity, selectable terrain modes and hill descent control, and a rugged appearance package. 

For 2020, Toyota expanded the RAV4 lineup with the TRD Off-Road, which adds off-road suspension and tires to the Adventure, among other upgrades. The standard RAV4 engine provides adequate power, although acceleration lags top competitors. 

Opt for the RAV4 Hybrid and you get more power and better EPA-estimated fuel economy. The RAV4 Hybrid follows the same trim-level structure as the gas-powered version, but it skips the off-road models and instead adds the SE (for 2022) and XSE. These are slightly sportier variants, which add sport suspension and appearance packages to the XLE and XLE Premium, respectively.

The plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime introduced for 2021 is the most powerful version, boasting 302 horsepower, and it offers up to 42 miles of all-electric range.

The 2013 redesign refocused the RAV4 on being a utilitarian all-rounder, with lots of room for passengers and cargo. It received driver aids during its life cycle, but other tech features lagged behind competitors. The previous generation’s optional V6 was dropped, and the RAV4 came standard with a moderately powered four-cylinder engine. A new six-speed automatic replaced the previous four-speed, making for a dramatic improvement in drivability. 

Toyota launched the RAV4 Hybrid for the 2016 model year, with a hybrid powertrain that improved on the standard model’s horsepower and EPA-estimated fuel efficiency.

The Toyota RAV4 gets most things right. Its roomy cabin boasts more cargo room than most rivals, and there's ample space for adults in front or back. On the plus side, the RAV4 makes a strong utilitarian pick, and it was one of the first compact SUVs to make driver aid technology standard. On the downside, the standard four-cylinder engine returns mediocre performance and efficiency, and the RAV4 didn’t receive other common tech features—like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, or in-car Wi-Fi—until the new generation was introduced for 2019. 

By 2018, the RAV4 offered no fewer than six trim levels. The base LE trim offered a decent set of standard technology features, while the XLE added more comfort and convenience features. The Adventure (added for 2018) came with more ground clearance and a higher towing capacity, along with a more rugged look. The SE (added for 2017) brought a sportier suspension and more technology features. The Limited topped the range in terms of features until the Platinum was introduced in 2017 with even more luxury-oriented add-ons.

For 2006, the RAV4 grew more than 14 inches in overall length, adding more cargo and passenger space, and offered a strong optional V6 engine. Two engine choices were offered in the first year of the third generation: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a much more powerful 3.5-liter V6. Automatic transmissions were standard, with the four-cylinder paired with a four-speed, while the V6 received a five-speed unit.

Three trim levels include base, Sport, and Limited. Base highlights include air conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver's seat, and full power accessories. The Sport added 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and a roof rack, while the Limited topped it off with 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver's seat, and an upgraded audio system. A third-row seat, a moonroof, leather upholstery, and a DVD-based rear entertainment system were options on upper level trims.

The 2006-2012 RAV4 has pleasant driving manners and roomy cargo space, but the side-hinged rear gate can make access difficult when street parking, and the RAV4 suffers from noticeable road noise. 

Changes since its debut were minimal but included additional standard airbags in 2007, a slight styling update in 2009 (with an option to remove the external spare tire), and a power increase for the four-cylinder engine (from 166 hp to 179 hp). A newly available touchscreen audio interface and Toyota's Entune™ smartphone apps were introduced for 2012.