Likes
- Offers typical superb Toyota reliability.
- Unmatched support network.
- Retains value incredibly well.
- Offers really all the car 90% of the population needs.
Used Toyota RAV4 (5th-gen) review
2019 - 2022
Dislikes
- A bit boring to drive.
- Used examples sometimes asking more than new.
- Competitors sometimes offer more standard equipment.
- Some international models have experienced small issues.
Stuff you should know
- The highly desirable fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 landed on Australian shores in 2019. Despite being a current model, Toyota updated the range in 2021, revising the usual aspects like aesthetics, improving technology and features, and adding more equipment.
- When it comes to model options, there are over a dozen to choose from, spanning five trim levels: GX, GXL, XSE, Cruiser, and Edge. The engine options include three petrol engines: a 2.0 L, a 2.5 L, and the hugely popular 2.5 L Hybrid. Depending on the year, model, and configuration, these engines can drive either the front wheels or all four wheels via a CVT, manual, or automatic transmission.
- The all-wheel-drive (AWD) options in the RAV4 are on-demand, meaning the rear wheels only provide power when the front wheels slip. In Hybrid models, the rear wheels are powered by electric motors, with no power coming from the petrol engine.
- In terms of equipment and technology, the RAV4 is well-equipped despite Toyota’s reputation for occasionally lagging behind competitors. Most models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and even if they don’t, retrofitting is easy with a simple software update. The comprehensive list of equipment, tech, and features available can be found below.
- The RAV4 competes in a highly contested market segment, facing rivals like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, Volkswagen Tiguan, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Subaru Forester, Renault Koleos, and many others.
- One potential drawback of the RAV4 is its cost. High demand for new models has caused used models to retain their value well, particularly the Hybrid versions. Earlier this year, wait times for new models stretched to over two years. Although these wait times have been reduced recently, you could still be waiting for six months or more. Given Toyota’s superb reputation for reliability, purchasing a used RAV4 might seem appealing. However, the situation is not as simple as it appears. Read on to find out more.
What goes wrong
Our research indicates that Japanese-made Toyota RAV4s offer noticeably better build quality than models manufactured in the US, China, Russia, and Canada. This is great news for Australian buyers since all RAV4s sold in Australia are made in Japan. However, even for international customers, while their locally made RAV4s might not match the Japanese models’ fit and finish, they still maintain a high standard of quality, albeit not perfect.
Exterior:
- Many owners, particularly in North America, have reported issues with leaking roof rails, which can stain the headliner and, in extreme cases of heavy rain, cause water to run down the inside of the A-pillar, behind the dash, and interfere with the electronics. However, these electronic issues tend to occur only under extremely heavy rainfall.
- Another water-related issue affecting some modern Toyotas, including the RAV4, involves the door seals. These can become clogged, preventing water from draining properly. An easy way to check is by opening and closing the doors and listening for sloshing sounds. If you hear it, it’s a simple fix, and many tutorials are available in owner groups.
- Early models of the RAV4 had a sensitive fuel filler, causing the pump to shut off prematurely, indicating the tank was full when it wasn’t. Toyota issued a service bulletin for this issue, so it’s likely been fixed on most used models, and if not, Toyota can address it.
- Additionally, some early models experienced premature battery draining due to the Data Communication Module remaining active even when the car wasn’t in use. This module, responsible for remote functions, would drain the battery. Toyota also issued a service bulletin and a software update to resolve this, and affected vehicles can be fixed by Toyota if the issue persists.
Interior:
- Many owners have voiced complaints about the infotainment systems in the RAV4. Although Toyota has improved its systems in recent models, earlier versions had numerous bugs, slow operation, and issues with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Usually, a software update to the system or phone resolves these issues, but some owners have had to replace the entire system under warranty.
- A common complaint from North American owners is that the cup holders aren’t large enough for their oversized coffees, though standard-sized coffees fit just fine.
- Non-Japanese sourced RAV4s have reported sporadic electronic issues, such as certain buttons not working and windows needing recalibration. While these issues are rare, they are generally fixed under warranty.
- Some 2019 model owners have reported noisy motors in the seats used for electric adjustment. While the seats function correctly, adjusting them produces a loud whirring noise. Some dealerships have replaced entire seat sections to fix the problem.
Our research indicates that Japanese-made Toyota RAV4s offer noticeably better build quality than models manufactured in the US, China, Russia, and Canada. This is great news for Australian buyers since all RAV4s sold in Australia are made in Japan. However, even for international customers, while their locally made RAV4s might not match the Japanese models’ fit and finish, they still maintain a high standard of quality, albeit not perfect.
Exterior:
- Many owners, particularly in North America, have reported issues with leaking roof rails, which can stain the headliner and, in extreme cases of heavy rain, cause water to run down the inside of the A-pillar, behind the dash, and interfere with the electronics. However, these electronic issues tend to occur only under extremely heavy rainfall.
- Another water-related issue affecting some modern Toyotas, including the RAV4, involves the door seals. These can become clogged, preventing water from draining properly. An easy way to check is by opening and closing the doors and listening for sloshing sounds. If you hear it, it’s a simple fix, and many tutorials are available in owner groups.
- Early models of the RAV4 had a sensitive fuel filler, causing the pump to shut off prematurely, indicating the tank was full when it wasn’t. Toyota issued a service bulletin for this issue, so it’s likely been fixed on most used models, and if not, Toyota can address it.
- Additionally, some early models experienced premature battery draining due to the Data Communication Module remaining active even when the car wasn’t in use. This module, responsible for remote functions, would drain the battery. Toyota also issued a service bulletin and a software update to resolve this, and affected vehicles can be fixed by Toyota if the issue persists.
Interior:
- Many owners have voiced complaints about the infotainment systems in the RAV4. Although Toyota has improved its systems in recent models, earlier versions had numerous bugs, slow operation, and issues with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Usually, a software update to the system or phone resolves these issues, but some owners have had to replace the entire system under warranty.
- A common complaint from North American owners is that the cup holders aren’t large enough for their oversized coffees, though standard-sized coffees fit just fine.
- Non-Japanese sourced RAV4s have reported sporadic electronic issues, such as certain buttons not working and windows needing recalibration. While these issues are rare, they are generally fixed under warranty.
- Some 2019 model owners have reported noisy motors in the seats used for electric adjustment. While the seats function correctly, adjusting them produces a loud whirring noise. Some dealerships have replaced entire seat sections to fix the problem.
Mechanically:
- The RAV4 is known for its reliability, with few instances of these vehicles needing a tow to the workshop. However, they are not without faults. Ignition coils, water pumps, alternators, and air conditioning compressors can occasionally fail, though this is rare.
- One issue to watch for in the 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder engine is oil consumption. This problem might not be evident during a pre-purchase inspection. To check, drive the car, let it idle for a few minutes, then rev the engine and look for smoke. Ensuring the vehicle has a well-documented service history can help mitigate the risk of ending up with an oil burner.
Overall, this generation of the RAV4 is considered one of the most reliable vehicles available. With proper servicing, experiencing any significant issues would be highly unlikely.
Our research indicates that Japanese-made Toyota RAV4s offer noticeably better build quality than models manufactured in the US, China, Russia, and Canada. This is great news for Australian buyers since all RAV4s sold in Australia are made in Japan. However, even for international customers, while their locally made RAV4s might not match the Japanese models’ fit and finish, they still maintain a high standard of quality, albeit not perfect.
Exterior:
- Many owners, particularly in North America, have reported issues with leaking roof rails, which can stain the headliner and, in extreme cases of heavy rain, cause water to run down the inside of the A-pillar, behind the dash, and interfere with the electronics. However, these electronic issues tend to occur only under extremely heavy rainfall.
- Another water-related issue affecting some modern Toyotas, including the RAV4, involves the door seals. These can become clogged, preventing water from draining properly. An easy way to check is by opening and closing the doors and listening for sloshing sounds. If you hear it, it’s a simple fix, and many tutorials are available in owner groups.
- Early models of the RAV4 had a sensitive fuel filler, causing the pump to shut off prematurely, indicating the tank was full when it wasn’t. Toyota issued a service bulletin for this issue, so it’s likely been fixed on most used models, and if not, Toyota can address it.
- Additionally, some early models experienced premature battery draining due to the Data Communication Module remaining active even when the car wasn’t in use. This module, responsible for remote functions, would drain the battery. Toyota also issued a service bulletin and a software update to resolve this, and affected vehicles can be fixed by Toyota if the issue persists.
Interior:
- Many owners have voiced complaints about the infotainment systems in the RAV4. Although Toyota has improved its systems in recent models, earlier versions had numerous bugs, slow operation, and issues with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Usually, a software update to the system or phone resolves these issues, but some owners have had to replace the entire system under warranty.
- A common complaint from North American owners is that the cup holders aren’t large enough for their oversized coffees, though standard-sized coffees fit just fine.
- Non-Japanese sourced RAV4s have reported sporadic electronic issues, such as certain buttons not working and windows needing recalibration. While these issues are rare, they are generally fixed under warranty.
- Some 2019 model owners have reported noisy motors in the seats used for electric adjustment. While the seats function correctly, adjusting them produces a loud whirring noise. Some dealerships have replaced entire seat sections to fix the problem.
Mechanically:
- The RAV4 is known for its reliability, with few instances of these vehicles needing a tow to the workshop. However, they are not without faults. Ignition coils, water pumps, alternators, and air conditioning compressors can occasionally fail, though this is rare.
- One issue to watch for in the 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder engine is oil consumption. This problem might not be evident during a pre-purchase inspection. To check, drive the car, let it idle for a few minutes, then rev the engine and look for smoke. Ensuring the vehicle has a well-documented service history can help mitigate the risk of ending up with an oil burner.
Overall, this generation of the RAV4 is considered one of the most reliable vehicles available. With proper servicing, experiencing any significant issues would be highly unlikely.
Should you buy it?
Absolutely, you should consider buying a Toyota RAV4. However, it’s crucial to do your pre-purchase homework on the specific model you’re interested in. Equally important is evaluating your driving lifestyle and considering when you plan to sell the vehicle. These factors will help you decide which RAV4 variant best suits your needs.
Toyota has announced that the future RAV4 range will be exclusively Hybrid. This shift could significantly impact the long-term resale values of non-Hybrid models. If the current used market trends are any indication, Hybrids tend to retain their value substantially better than their non-Hybrid counterparts.
While we don’t anticipate the values of non-Hybrid models plummeting, it’s clear that used Hybrids often command higher prices than new retail models. This creates a balancing act between saving money upfront by purchasing a non-Hybrid and saving money in the long run through better fuel efficiency and higher resale values.
Considering these factors, it’s wise to weigh the short-term savings of a non-Hybrid against the long-term benefits of a Hybrid.
Absolutely, you should consider buying a Toyota RAV4. However, it’s crucial to do your pre-purchase homework on the specific model you’re interested in. Equally important is evaluating your driving lifestyle and considering when you plan to sell the vehicle. These factors will help you decide which RAV4 variant best suits your needs.
Toyota has announced that the future RAV4 range will be exclusively Hybrid. This shift could significantly impact the long-term resale values of non-Hybrid models. If the current used market trends are any indication, Hybrids tend to retain their value substantially better than their non-Hybrid counterparts.
While we don’t anticipate the values of non-Hybrid models plummeting, it’s clear that used Hybrids often command higher prices than new retail models. This creates a balancing act between saving money upfront by purchasing a non-Hybrid and saving money in the long run through better fuel efficiency and higher resale values.
Considering these factors, it’s wise to weigh the short-term savings of a non-Hybrid against the long-term benefits of a Hybrid.
Should you buy it?
Absolutely, you should consider buying a Toyota RAV4. However, it’s crucial to do your pre-purchase homework on the specific model you’re interested in. Equally important is evaluating your driving lifestyle and considering when you plan to sell the vehicle. These factors will help you decide which RAV4 variant best suits your needs.
Toyota has announced that the future RAV4 range will be exclusively Hybrid. This shift could significantly impact the long-term resale values of non-Hybrid models. If the current used market trends are any indication, Hybrids tend to retain their value substantially better than their non-Hybrid counterparts.
While we don’t anticipate the values of non-Hybrid models plummeting, it’s clear that used Hybrids often command higher prices than new retail models. This creates a balancing act between saving money upfront by purchasing a non-Hybrid and saving money in the long run through better fuel efficiency and higher resale values.
Considering these factors, it’s wise to weigh the short-term savings of a non-Hybrid against the long-term benefits of a Hybrid.
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Models, pricing & features
Tech specs
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 127kW / 203Nm (GX 2019 – 2022, GXL 2019 – 2022, Cruiser 2019 – 2022)
- 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 131kW / 221Nm (GX 2019 – 2022, GXL 2019 – 2022, Cruiser 2019 – 2022, XSE 2021 – 2022, Edge 2021 – 2022)
- 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 152kW / 243Nm (Edge 2019 – 2022)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (GX)
- 10-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (GX, GXL, Cruiser)
- 6-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE, Edge)
- 8-speed Sports Automatic (Edge)
Fuel Consumption
- 4.8 – 5.0 / 100km (GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE)
- 5.9 – 8.9 / 100km (Edge)
Length
- 4600mm – 4615mm (All Models)
Width
- 1855mm – 1865mm (All Models)
Height
- 1685mm – 1690mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2690mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1515kg – 1760kg (All Models)
Towing
- 480kg (unbraked) – 1500kg (braked) (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2019 (All Models)
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 127kW / 203Nm (GX 2019 – 2022, GXL 2019 – 2022, Cruiser 2019 – 2022)
- 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 131kW / 221Nm (GX 2019 – 2022, GXL 2019 – 2022, Cruiser 2019 – 2022, XSE 2021 – 2022, Edge 2021 – 2022)
- 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 152kW / 243Nm (Edge 2019 – 2022)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (GX)
- 10-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (GX, GXL, Cruiser)
- 6-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE, Edge)
- 8-speed Sports Automatic (Edge)
Fuel Consumption
- 4.8 – 5.0 / 100km (GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE)
- 5.9 – 8.9 / 100km (Edge)
Length
- 4600mm – 4615mm (All Models)
Width
- 1855mm – 1865mm (All Models)
Height
- 1685mm – 1690mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2690mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1515kg – 1760kg (All Models)
Towing
- 480kg (unbraked) – 1500kg (braked) (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2019 (All Models)
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 127kW / 203Nm (GX 2019 – 2022, GXL 2019 – 2022, Cruiser 2019 – 2022)
- 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 131kW / 221Nm (GX 2019 – 2022, GXL 2019 – 2022, Cruiser 2019 – 2022, XSE 2021 – 2022, Edge 2021 – 2022)
- 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 152kW / 243Nm (Edge 2019 – 2022)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (GX)
- 10-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (GX, GXL, Cruiser)
- 6-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE, Edge)
- 8-speed Sports Automatic (Edge)
Fuel Consumption
- 4.8 – 5.0 / 100km (GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE)
- 5.9 – 8.9 / 100km (Edge)
Length
- 4600mm – 4615mm (All Models)
Width
- 1855mm – 1865mm (All Models)
Height
- 1685mm – 1690mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2690mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1515kg – 1760kg (All Models)
Towing
- 480kg (unbraked) – 1500kg (braked) (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2019 (All Models)
Warranty & servicing
Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited km (All Models)
Servicing
- 15,000 km / 12 months (All Models)
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Jun 11, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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