The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-known compact SUV names in the business. Spanning five generations, the RAV4 is always at the top of its game with excellent resale and reliability ratings. Later versions provide numerous powertrain choices, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, while older generations provided options like a V6 engine and third-row seat. Strong resale values mean higher used car prices versus some rivals, justified by the RAV4’s excellent history of reliability and reasonable repair costs.
Toyota RAV4 Generations
Toyota RAV4 (5th Generation: 2019 - Current)
Key Improvements: The current RAV4 is one of the longest-running generations, having debuted in 2019 and unchanged as of 2024. But it still has a lot going for it, starting with its available powertrains. Buyers can opt for a peppy 201-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, a fuel-efficient hybrid earning up to 41 mpg city, or the Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid that can travel 42 miles solely on electric power. Compared to the model it replaces, the fifth-generation RAV4 has improved ride and handling, better fuel economy, and still more rear-seat legroom. The RAV4 offers all of Toyota’s latest safety tech, including such standard features as adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning. New features include Apple CarPlay (and later, Android Auto) integration, road-sign recognition, lane-keeping assist, rear seat air vents, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
Model Updates: For 2020, the RAV4 gains Android Auto and a new TRD Off-Road trim. The XLE gains a power driver's seat. 2021 sees the birth of the RAV4 Prime PHEV, while 2022 adds LED headlights to all but the base trim.
Toyota RAV4 (4th Generation: 2013 - 2018)
Key Improvements: The fourth-generation RAV4 is more sophisticated than the last, with a quieter cabin featuring more soft-touch surfaces and more safety and tech features. Gone are the V6 engine and third-row seat options. The fourth-generation RAV4 also ditches the previous generation's swing-out rear door and exterior-mounted spare tire. New equipment includes a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic detection, push-button start, and an Entune touchscreen infotainment system with voice recognition.
Model Updates: The 2014 RAV4 has new audio options and available auto-high-beam headlights. 2016 sees a refreshed exterior and the introduction of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, rated to return 34 mpg in city driving. New tech upgrades include a bird’s-eye 360-degree camera, Toyota Safety Sense (adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams), and a 7-inch touchscreen. For 2017, new standard features include the Toyota Safety Sense group, while a new Platinum trim is added. For 2018, the rugged Adventure trim and a new LE hybrid trim come aboard.
Toyota RAV4 (3rd Generation: 2006 - 2012)
Key Improvements: The third-generation RAV4 is an ambitious compact SUV, offering such unusual options as a small third-row seat and a powerful V6 engine. The larger body provides nearly six inches more rear-seat legroom than the previous RAV4, thanks partly to second-row seats that slide fore and aft. New features for this generation include introducing a proximity keyless entry system, steering wheel audio controls, and more standard safety equipment.
Model Updates: For 2007, front seat side-impact and side curtain airbags are made standard, and Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity joins the options list. The 2009 RAV4 gets a mild exterior makeover and a new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. Bluetooth is made standard for 2012.
Toyota RAV4 (2nd Generation: 2001 - 2005)
Not as cute or playful as the original RAV4, the second generation still offers a manual transmission—the last generation to do so. New options include front and side-curtain airbags, heated side mirrors, and a limited-slip differential on AWD models. The three-door RAV4 is no more.
Toyota RAV4 (1st Generation: 1996 - 2000)
Although hard to find, a few first-generation RAV4s are still out there. The original RAV4 started life as a three-door (we’re counting the rear swing-out door) with an available rolling soft top. A four-door version soon followed, along with an EV sold only in California and in minimal numbers. The RAV4 is generally recognized as the first compact SUV.
Toyota RAV4 Buying Tips
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Toyota RAV4 FAQs
How Long Does The Toyota RAV4 Last?
The average Toyota RAV4 listed for sale on Autotrader is 4.1 years old and has 57,229 miles. The oldest Toyota RAV4 for sale is 28 years old, and the highest mileage RAV4 has 460,410 miles on the odometer.
Is the Toyota RAV4 a Good SUV?
The Toyota RAV4 has won numerous awards from Kelley Blue Book and is one of the most popular used compact SUVs on Autotrader. The RAV4 most recently received the 2022 Compact SUV of the Year award.