The 2024 Toyota RAV4 maintains its 30-year model status as one of the most popular compact SUVs in its segment. It combines the traits of a dependable, efficient, and good-mannered compact SUV. This year RAV4 features some changes to improve its performance, comfort, and outdated platform. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is an all-around compact SUV with good fuel efficiency and safety features. With a variety of engine options, a standard all-wheel drive system (for higher variants), and the bark of a rugged SUV, the RAV4 remains a versatile pick.
A 2.5-liter engine mated to an eight-speed transmission propels the RAV4, though it lacks the acceleration factor. Despite its cons, the RAV4 offers a budget-friendly starting price, spacious room, and plenty of assistance features that maintain a perfect balance of comfort and dependability. It is also available with a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid powertrain, but those are reviewed separately. Ready to experience the RAV4’s dependable heritage? This review offers clarity for its worth.
What has been tweaked for 2024?
What’s new? A new Army Green color is now part of the RAV4’s color palette this year, before seen on several other Toyota SUVs and trucks. What’s more? The Hue is now offered for free on the off-road-focused Adventure and TRD Off-Road models. A second two-tone color option is also offered for these variants, with either a black or a white roof option. Looking for a more aggressively styled, efficient compact SUV? The Honda CR-V Hybrid could be a sweet pick.
2024 RAV4 vs Competitors’ Specs!
The 2024 RAV4 is a perfect all-rounder, competing with the uniquely equipped 2024 Kia Sportage and the 2024 Mazda CX-5.
| Specifications | 2024 Toyota RAV4 (XLE) | 2024 Kia Sportage (X-Line) | 2024 Mazda CX-5 (S-Select) |
| Engine | 2.5L Inline-4 Gas | 2.5L Inline-4 Gas | 2.5L Inline-4 Gas |
| Horsepower | 203 hp @ 6,600 rpm | 187 hp @ 6,100 rpm | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 184 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm | 178 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel-Drive | All-Wheel-Drive | All-Wheel-Drive |
| EPA City/Highway/Combined MPG | 27/33/29 MPG | 23/26/25 MPG | 23/29/25 MPG |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Capacity | 37.5 cu.ft. | 39.6 cu.ft. | 30.8 cu.ft. |
| Max Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs. | 2,500 lbs. | 2,000 lbs. |
| Curb Weight | 3,515 lbs. | 3,809 lbs. | 3,710 lbs. |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36,000 miles. | 5 yr./ 60,000 miles. | 3 yr./ 36,000 miles. |
| Starting MSRP | $31,585 | $31,890 | $29,300 |
Note: The price does not include any add-ons or on-road taxes.
Pricing and Trims
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 pricing starts at $30,070 and hikes up to $39,690, depending on the trim and further add-ons.
| Trims | Pricing |
| LE | $30,070 |
| XLE | $31,580 |
| XLE Premium | $34,470 |
| Adventure | $36,265 |
| Limited | $38,375 |
| TRD Off-Road | $39,690 |
The range-topping TRD-Offroad offers the most enticing features, but we recommend having the mid-range XLE-Premium trim. It delivers a wide catalog of standard features that the LE and the XLE lack. Features include the chunkier 19-inch alloys, fog lamps, a power liftgate, a panoramic roof, dual zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, faux leather upholstery, and softly padded armrests. Toyota specs various safety and assistance features for the mid-range trim, making it worth every penny unless you require ventilated seats and rugged visuals.
Note: The price does not include any further add-ons or on-road taxes.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2024 RAV4 is propelled by a 2.5-liter inline-4 block, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Every RAV4 is offered with a front wheel drive configuration. Except for the top-spec Adventure and the TRD Off-Road trim, only offered with an all-wheel-drive system. The mid-range LE, XLE, and XLE Premium can be acquired with a simple AWD system.
Whereas, a more complex AWD system with torque vectoring is offered with the Adventure, Limited, and TRD Off-road models that can disengage the rear axle to enhance the fuel economy. Driving the RAV4 on highway could be a bit disappointing because of the lackluster acceleration, it also remains sluggish while downshifting for an overtake. Despite its lack of performance, the RAV4 remains solid at higher speeds and twisty curves. If you are looking for a more comfortable counterpart, the Hyundai Tucson could be a dependable pick.
0-60 MPH Testing
Official numbers are unclear till now. However, according to the Car and Driver testing, the TRD-Off-Road model achieved the 60 mph mark in 8.3 seconds. Whereas, the hybrid takes the win for achieving the 60 mph mark in 7.4 seconds.
Fuel Economy (EPA)
The RAV4 stands as a strong contender due to its competitive fuel-economy estimates in the compact SUV segment. EPA has estimated the front-wheel-drive RAV4 at 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway fuel economy. According to the Car and Driver 75-mph highway fuel-economy testing, the all-wheel-drive TRD Off-Road achieved 32 mpg economy.
The figures are quite good considering its competitors, however, the Volkswagen Tiguan outshines the RAV4 for its economy figures. Visit the EPA’s website for more information about the Toyota RAV4 fuel economy estimates.
YouTube Video
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the RAV4 features an occupant-friendly environment with several cubby compartments for storing loose items. However, the buyers should opt for the mid-range or higher trims for a more eye-catching interior with the latest tech. The base LE keeps things cheap with scratchy hard plastic and a leather-free interior with single-zone climate control and fabric seats.
Whereas, the higher XLE trim offers a two-tone interior with some extra features. The XLE Premium specs a more loaded interior with faux leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, softly padded dashboard, and armrest. The RAV4 seats can be folded at a nearly flat position for enhanced storage, offered with a 37.6 cu.ft. of storage in comparison with the Subaru Forester’s 28.9 cu.ft. space.
Infotainment and Tech
A standard 8.0-inch infotainment system is offered at the lower trims, but the top-spec Limited and the TRD Off-Road equip a 10.5-inch infotainment display. It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with 4G LTE mobile hotspot.
What’s more? A premium JBL audio unit and wireless charging pad are options. The majority of the trims spec a 7.0-inch screen in the gauge cluster, but a full-size 12.3-inch display is optional on the XLE Premium and TRD Off-Road, and standard on the Limited trim.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 features a wide catalog of standard driver assistance and safety features. Including optional features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross-traffic alert. The key features are listed below:
- Automated emergency braking and pedestrian detection as standard.
- Lane-departure warning with Lane-keep assist as standard.
- Adaptive Cruise Control is standard.
For more information, visit the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for crash tests and safety measures.
Warranty and Maintenance
- 3 years or 36,000 miles basic warranty.
- 5 years or 60,000 miles powertrain warranty.
- 5 years of unlimited miles of rust warranty.
- 2 years and unlimited miles of roadside assistance.
- 2 years or 25,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
Experts Review
The Toyota RAV4 retains its charm against its highly capable contenders. Its all-rounder demeanor has elicited remarks from car experts around the globe.
Edmunds notes, “The 2024 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.”
Car and Driver says, “Newer rivals are beginning to close the gap, but the RAV4’s practicality, affordability, and ease of use still demonstrate why it’s regularly one of America’s best-selling vehicles.”
Owner’s Feedback!
According to the J.D. Power ranking, the 2024 Porsche 911 remains a great contender, rated at 80/100 for quality and reliability, 78/100 for driving experience, and 80/100 overall rating.
Several customers have shared their valuable remarks regarding the RAV4’s overall character on platforms, including Edmunds.
“So far, I like this car. Is it exciting? No, but not meant to be. I wanted a reliable, comfortable, spacious vehicle with the latest safety tech and Apple CarPlay, but not to go crazy with tech that can fail easily. This XLE has all the bells and whistles I need for a daily driver. The best thing about it so far is the powertrain. The 8-speed automatic transmission is the smoothest I have ever driven!”
RSJ
“Bought a 2024 LE trim Automatic RAV4. I’ve been disliking the deceleration, either when breaking or coasting: The vehicles give a leap forward at around 20mph when coming to a slow stop. It scares me each time, almost feels like it wants to skip the brakes for a second. I feel very disappointed with this buy. I already took it to service, and supposedly no codes came up.”
Silver
Final Verdict
The 2024 RAV4 is well known for its versatile nature, affordability, and utility. Though it lacks the power punch that few of its competitors do, with better manners. Except for its lackluster thrust, the RAV4 could be a sweet pick.
FAQ’s
How much should I pay for a 2024 Toyota RAV4?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 pricing starts at $30,070 and hikes up to $39,690, depending on the trim and further add-ons.
What does RAV4 stand for?
The term RAV4 means “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive. The name itself justifies the RAV4 attributes.
What is the spec of the RAV4 2024?
The 2024 RAV4 is propelled by a 2.5-liter inline-4 block, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive as standard, except for the Adventure and the TRD Off-Road trim with an all-wheel-drive system.
