2019–2026 Toyota RAV4
2.5L 4-cyl
What Scouts Say
Critics Consensus
The redesigned 2019 RAV4 no longer ranks among best in class in CR road tests despite historical segment leadership. Achieves excellent fuel economy (27 mpg non-hybrid, 37 mpg hybrid) with comprehensive standard Toyota Safety Sense (FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, LDW, LKA) and 5-star NHTSA crash rating. Ride is stiff and jumpy with noisy engine hurting experience. Standard Apple CarPlay but no Android Auto until 2020.
Expert Reviews (3)
The redesigned 2019 RAV4 no longer ranks among best in class in CR road tests despite historical segment leadership. Achieves excellent fuel economy (27 mpg non-hybrid, 37 mpg hybrid) with comprehensive standard Toyota Safety Sense (FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, LDW, LKA) and 5-star NHTSA crash rating. Ride is stiff and jumpy with noisy engine hurting experience. Standard Apple CarPlay but no Android Auto until 2020.
Pros
- ✓Excellent fuel economy: 27 mpg standard, 37 mpg hybrid
- ✓Comprehensive standard Toyota Safety Sense suite
- ✓5-star NHTSA overall, IIHS Good in major crash tests
Cons
- ⚠Stiff and jumpy ride with noisy engine
- ⚠No Android Auto until 2020 (Apple CarPlay standard)
- ⚠Handling and dynamics fell short of class leaders
The redesigned RAV4 is dramatically improved with bold masculine styling featuring distinctive trapezoidal grille, impressive 33 mpg highway (Hybrid: 41/37 mpg), and enhanced 8.5-inch ground clearance with advanced AWD handling surprisingly tough terrain. However, engine is noisy and unrefined - dutiful at best with metallic gnashing-of-teeth racket. Adventure trim pricing climbs steeply to $39,634 loaded. Rear legroom gives up inches to class leaders.
Pros
- ✓Bold masculine styling: handsome outdoorsy design
- ✓Impressive fuel economy: 33 mpg highway, Hybrid 41/37 mpg
- ✓Enhanced capability: 8.5-inch clearance, advanced AWD
Cons
- ⚠Noisy unrefined engine: metallic gnashing racket
- ⚠Steep pricing: Adventure loaded climbs to $39,634
- ⚠Limited rear space vs class leaders
A practical reliable crossover perfect for everyday tasks with excellent cargo versatility (fits 55-inch TV box, guitar, suitcase, three bankers boxes, video gear, two passengers comfortably), comfortable user-friendly controls, and stylish interior with attractive leather and orange trim accents. 8-speed transmission is sluggish - at best slow, at worst dopey with constant shifting. Engine uninspiring for highway merges with tinny four-cylinder drone. No Android Auto.
Pros
- ✓Excellent cargo versatility and space
- ✓Comfortable user-friendly with intuitive controls and visibility
- ✓Stylish interior with attractive leather and trim accents
Cons
- ⚠Sluggish 8-speed: slow at best, dopey at worst
- ⚠Uninspiring engine with tinny four-cylinder drone above 4k RPM
- ⚠No Android Auto (only Apple CarPlay and Alexa)
Known Issues (8)
Note: Data from NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and verified owner reports.
Timing Chain Service
Timing chain stretches or tensioner fails, causing engine noise.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Worn piston rings allow oil to burn, requiring engine rebuild.
Starter Motor Failure
Starter motor contacts wear out, preventing engine start.
Alternator Replacement
Alternator fails to charge the battery, leading to stalling.
EGR Valve Clogging
EGR valve clogs with carbon, causing hesitation and check engine light.
Thermostat Housing Leak
Plastic thermostat housing cracks and leaks coolant.
Catalytic Converter Failure
Catalytic converter loses efficiency, triggering check engine light.
Throttle Body Cleaning/Replacement
Carbon buildup in throttle body causes rough idle and stalling.
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