New 2023 Toyota RAV4 ( Overview ). HIGHS
– Easygoing driving demeanor, rugged good looks, driver-assists come standard.
LOWS
– Entry model is too bare-bones, coarse-sounding four-cylinder, some rivals offer more driving fun.
VERDICT
– Although it’s a bit boring to drive and starting to show its age among more modern rivals, the RAV4’s practicality and affordability are hard to argue with.
The RAV4 is a pleasant SUV that rides smoothly, has a roomy interior that’s easy to live with, and offers plenty of utility. It brakes and handles in a confident way, and it’s fuel-efficient. The merely satisfactory engine and indifferent steering, however, prevent it from being a top choice for a small SUV.
– Pros
Quiet interior and comfortable ride quality
Abundant cargo and passenger space
Easy-to-use controls
Extra off-road capability of the TRD Off-Road trim
– Cons
Lackluster acceleration
Vague steering
– What’s new
Larger optional touchscreen and digital instrument panel displays
Part of the fifth Toyota RAV4 generation introduced for 2019
Year after year, the Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling SUVs on the market. Toyota’s reputation for reliability certainly has a lot to do with its success. But we also praise this small SUV for its roomy interior, comfortable ride and easy-to-use technology features. There are also a wide array of available trim levels to suit your budget or interests. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road trim, for example, is one of the few models in its class to offer enhanced off-road capabilities by way of its all-terrain tires and special suspension alterations.
