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.