2023 Toyota RAV4 Informative Car Review
Overview
The perennially popular Toyota RAV4 is renowned for its practicality, efficiency, and appeal to your logical side. The 2023 model carries on this legacy with a cargo-friendly interior that belies its base price tag, as well as sensible performance characteristics. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine powers the front or all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission; although it might not be the quickest around town, fuel economy remains impressive!
In addition to the available hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrain, the RAV4's rugged looks also allow it to fit in with 4Runners and Tacomas. However, its TRD Off-Road capabilities are best suited for suburban tasks such as daily commuting rather than remote locales. To further enhance its value compared to other models on the market, Toyota has included an array of driver assistance techs and desirable infotainment features as standard equipment.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2023 RAV4 features a 203-hp 2.5L four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front wheel drive. You can now choose from various all wheel drive systems, depending on the trim you select; for instance, the Adventure model we tested came with one that disconnects the rear axle when increased fuel economy is desired.
At our test track, the 2019 RAV4 was faster than the 2018 model: We clocked an impressive 60 mph time of 8.0 seconds compared with 8.3 for its predecessor. However, although the dutiful four-cylinder engine is powerful it can also be a bit noisy in certain situations such as highway passing attempts; surprisingly, we noted that on our particular vehicle there seemed to be some hesitation when called upon for a downshift too.
Our own test of the RAV4 Hybrid resulted in a remarkable 7.4-second 60mph time, proving its worthiness on the highway and curvy roads alike. However, when compared to our top pick—the Mazda CX-5—it doesn't quite measure up in terms of confidence and performance.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The RAV4's fuel-economy estimates from the EPA place it as a competitive force in its class. With front-wheel drive, you can expect up to an estimated 35 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, our tests on the all-wheel Adventure trim delivered 32 mpg for us on our 75 mph route - 1 mpg shy of what was expected by EPA. While this is still strong performance compared with other cars in its class, we observed that Volkswagen Tiguan got slightly better mileage at 33 mpg during testing! To learn more about RAV4's impressive fuel economy figures, check out the EPA website today!
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The RAV4 lineup boasts an array of standard driver assists. Buyers also can add blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross-traffic alert, but those features cost extra on the base model. For more information about the RAV4's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
What is the common problem of Toyota RAV4?
One of the most common Toyota RAV4 problems is a faulty evaporative system (EVAP) vapor canister. This ultimately results in the Check Engine light illuminating. This typically is resolved by replacing the entire vapor canister including the vent valves.
Is a Toyota RAV4 a good car?
Yes, the 2023 RAV4 is a great compact SUV. The RAV4 sports a well-built interior with room for five passengers (plus a bunch of cargo), and it comes loaded with standard equipment, from a new and easy-to-use infotainment system to a wide range of safety features.
