2021 Toyota RAV4 review

2021 Used Toyota RAV4 Review:

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 returns unchanged from the previous year. Thankfully, the RAV4 remains one of the most compelling compact SUVs available. Its smooth ride, comfortable seats, and good fuel economy make it a tremendous all-around pick. Its sole gas-only engine is not all that powerful, though, so if you're interested in an SUV that's fun to drive, look elsewhere.

But in just about every other area, the RAV4 shines. It boasts one of the largest cargo areas among compact SUVs, boasting 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row. And that second row is roomy enough for adults. Small-item storage is another strength of the RAV4; we've found there are plenty of pockets and cupholders throughout the cabin.

If you're looking for a more affordable SUV, we recommend checking out the Nissan Rogue. And while we're impressed by the RAV4's fuel economy, there are an increasing number of compelling hybrid options available. They include a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

Check out the full review below for more details on why you might want to consider a used 2021 Toyota RAV4:

• Technology

• Comfort

• Cargo and storage

• Ease of use

• Driving

What tech does a used 2021 Toyota RAV4 have?

Connectivity

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 comes standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, but wireless isn't available, and note that the base LE trim only comes with one USB port. Higher trims come with additional ports

Infotainment

All but the top-of-the-line Limited and second-from-top TRD Off-Road trims come with an 7-inch touchscreen. Those top trims get an eight-inch screen. Both are easy to learn and easy to use, but the native Toyota system is dated and a bit clunky. Using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are improvements on Toyota's standard system; both are responsive and easy to use.

Driver Assist Tech

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 comes loaded with advanced driver aids, even on the base trim. You get adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane keeping assistance on every RAV4. The second-tier trim adds blind-spot warning and the top-of-the-line Limited adds a surround-view parking system, which is an available feature on lower trims. Every RAV4 comes with a standard backup camera that's helpful but not a standout because of its so-so image quality.

How comfortable is a used 2021 Toyota RAV4?

Front Seating

The front seats are roomy and comfortable with enough cushion and padding for most drivers. The bottoms of the seat are on the flat side, which may become uncomfortable during long drives. The manual seat adjusters on the passenger side are also a bit cumbersome—it can be tricky to find the perfect setting. Heated seats are available on the second-tier XLE trim, but to get cooled seats you need a top-of-the-line Limited trim RAV4.

Rear Seating

The second row has enough legroom for most adults, though the seats are not as cushioned as the front seats and their flat bottoms make them a less-than-ideal place to spend many hours at a time. There are a pair of fans attached to the center console that do a fine job of keeping the rear passengers cool (or warm, as the case may be). A couple of USB ports in the back are also handy for keeping devices charged.

Ride Quality and Interior Noise

The 2021 Toyota RAV4's ride quality is good even on moderately bumpy terrain. It doesn't feel too stiff or too soft, which could lead to an off-putting floaty feeling when driving over speed bumps. Engine noise is not typically a problem when just cruising, but it's a different story if you need to get on the gas while driving uphill. The engine can sound coarse and unpleasant in those conditions.

Does the used 2021 Toyota RAV4 have good storage?

Cargo

The rear cargo area is one of the largest among compact SUVs, offering 37.5 cubic feet of storage with all seats in an upright position. Fold the rear seat down to get 69.8 cubic feet of storage, which combined with the RAV4's low loading floor makes it one of the most useful in the class. The second row folds down manually, but the lever is easy to access.

Storage

Small item storage is good in the 2021 Toyota RAV4. There's plenty of cubbies and pockets for assorted items, and the area under the infotainment screen is perfect for storing your smartphone.

How easy is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 to use?

Entry, Exit, and Car Seats

The Toyota RAV4's doors open wide enough that most passengers won't have a problem getting in or out of the vehicle. Installing a car seat is also easy thanks to the easy-to-spot lower car seat anchors. Tethering to the upward anchors is also straightforward. It's easier to install a rear-facing seat on the driver's side because of the elevated position of the front passenger seat.

Interior Layout and Visibility

Visibility is quite good in the Toyota RAV4, whether you're looking out your side mirrors or through the back. The backup camera is helpful, but its resolution is not as impressive as that of some competitors. Our biggest complaint is the placement of some of the knobs on the infotainment screen, some of which require a stretch from the driver's seat to use. Otherwise, the cabin is straightforward and easy to use.

What’s a used 2021 Toyota RAV4 like to drive?

Driving

The 2021 Toyota RAV4's 203 horsepower looks good on paper, but don't be fooled: Its maximum power doesn't overcome its sluggish delivery. It's fine when it comes to tooling around town, but the RAV4 labors when put to more challenging tasks like accelerating uphill or passing on two-lane roads. The steering also feels imprecise, which is a fancy way of saying it can be frustrating to know how much you need to turn the wheel to get the RAV4 to appropriately respond.

Towing

The RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. That's good enough for a small pop-up camper or other lightweight loads.

Fuel Economy/Electric Efficiency

The EPA estimates a front-wheel-drive RAV4 gets 30 miles per gallon in combined driving. That's about on par with the rest of the subcompact SUV class and matches its biggest competitor, the Honda CR-V. In Edmunds' testing, we found the EPA estimates pretty reliable.