The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2026 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
The redesigned-for-2026 RAV4 smartly evolves the industry's bestselling compact SUV, offering an all-electrified lineup of hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models.
Eliminating the nonhybrid engine means every RAV4 has immediate electric torque off the line, seamless power delivery, and excellent fuel economy.
Both front- and all-wheel drive variants are offered.
Our all-wheel-drive hybrid returned an outstanding 40 mpg overall.
The PHEV model delivers an EPA-estimated electric-only range of about 50 miles.
Other improvements to this popular SUV include a more comfortable ride, shorter stopping distances, and a quieter cabin, all of which significantly boosted the RAV4's road-test score.
However, the interior trim looks and feels somewhat drab, and the driving position is marred by uncomfortable armrests and an intrusive center console.
The controls are mostly easy to use, and the seats are reasonably comfortable.
All RAV4s get Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which is the brand's latest comprehensive suite of active safety and driver assistance features.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2019 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
The popular RAV4 was redesigned for 2019, with new proportions and a more-rugged appearance.
The standard 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and delivers relatively quick acceleration.
The hybrid version feels energetic, with the electric drive producing immediate and quiet motivation from a standstill.
There’s limited lean when taking corners and responsive steering, but the RAV4’s ride is stiff and a little jumpy, and the noisy engine hurts the driving experience.
All-wheel-drive versions allow the driver to select modes to optimize traction on sand or mud.
Fuel economy is commendable at 27 mpg overall for the non-hybrid version.
The hybrid model gets an impressive 37 mpg.
Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard, but no Android Auto until 2020.
Toyota’s Safety Sense safety and driver assist suite is standard, and includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. For 2021 a plug-in hybrid version, called RAV4 Prime will be offered.
The Prime has 302 combined hp and AWD is standard.
Toyota says the Prime can travel about 42 miles on electric power. A new Woodland Edition was introduced for 2023, highlighted by different suspension tuning, unique interior and interior trim bits, special wheels, and chunky all-terrain tires. All 2023 models also came standard with an updated infotainment system, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims are no longer available for 2025.
The plug-in hybrid version is no longer called Prime and is instead badged with the acronym, PHEV.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2016 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
Freshened for 2016, the cabin is quieter; the ride is smoother; and offers a frugal hybrid version.
The energetic 2.5-liter four-cylinder and smooth six-speed automatic returned 24 mpg overall in our tests of an AWD version.
The hybrid version gets a terrific 31 mpg overall.
Handling is responsive and very secure.
Inside, the controls are clear and intuitive.
The 2016 RAV4 offered a suite of advanced safety features such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking which became standard equipment from 2017 on.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2013 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
This version of the RAV4 is roomy and versatile, as well as a wise choice as a used car.
The 2012 to 2015 vintage handles nimbly and gets 24 mpg in the AWD version.
But the ride is a bit stiff and the cabin is rather loud.
Most versions are XLE, which adds auto climate control and a sunroof.
For a power seat and lumbar support you'd have to get the Limited.
The 2.5-liter engine is quite energetic and the transmission shifts smoothly.
Controls are clear and easy to use, access is easy and the rear seat is roomy.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2006 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
RAV4s from 2006 to 2012 had a side swinging rear gate, which is cumbersome.
They also offered an optional V6 that was smooth and powerful as well as an optional third row seat.
Rear seat accommodations are roomy and the cargo area is generous.
Don't expect crash safety to be as up to snuff as more recent RAV4s, but stability control is standard.
Responsive handling and a fairly comfortable ride made it easy to drive.
Controls are also very user friendly, including the ability to pair a phone via Bluetooth.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2001 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
Avoid buying a RAV4 older than the 2004 model year, as they lack electronic stability control.
Otherwise, the RAV4s of that vintage have nimble handling and compact dimensions that made them fun to drive and very maneuverable.
Ride comfort and noise isolation were ok for the time but not a match for newer versions.
A side swinging door makes loading and unloading rather cumbersome and doesn't shelter from rain.
Rear seat room and cargo volume are modest.
Introduced for the 1996 model year, the original RAV4 ranked among the best of the small, car-based SUVs.
Available in both two- and four-door versions, it delivers carlike driving manners and a comfortable ride, though noise from the driveline can be intrusive.
On the down side, the engine isn't very strong, the rear seat is tight, and cargo room is scant.
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