The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact SUVs in the market, thanks to its spacious cabin, versatile performance, and advanced features. For 2024, the RAV4 gets a fresh update that adds more style, technology, and capability to its already impressive resume. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly hauler, a fun-to-drive adventurer, or a fuel-efficient commuter, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 has something for everyone. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting new model.
What’s New for 2024?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 receives several enhancements that make it more attractive, comfortable, and functional than ever. Some of the highlights include:
- A new Army Green color option for the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims adds a rugged and distinctive look to the exterior. You can also opt for a two-tone color scheme with a white or black roof for extra contrast.
- A redesigned front grille and bumper for the LE and XLE trims give them a more refined and sophisticated appearance. The XLE also gets new 17-inch alloy wheels and LED fog lights.
- A standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system for all trims replaces the previous 7-inch unit. The system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Upgrade to a 9-inch touchscreen with a JBL premium sound system and a wireless charging pad on higher trims.
- A standard blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert for all trims adds to the already impressive list of safety features that come with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and road sign assist.
- A new hybrid powertrain option for the TRD Off-Road trim combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 219 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system also improves the fuel economy to an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, compared to the 25/32 mpg of the gas-only version.
How Does It Drive?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 offers a smooth and composed ride quality, with a well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and road imperfections. The steering is light and responsive, making maneuvering in tight spaces and corners easy. The brakes are strong and confident, with a progressive pedal feel.
The standard engine for the 2024 Toyota RAV4 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The engine provides adequate acceleration and passing power but can get noisy under hard acceleration.
The hybrid powertrain option for the 2024 Toyota RAV4 adds more pep and efficiency to the driving experience, with a combined output of 219 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. It uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that mimics the feel of a conventional automatic. The hybrid system also allows the RAV4 to run on electric power alone at low speeds, which reduces emissions and fuel consumption.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 also offers a variety of drive modes that let you customize the performance according to your preferences and driving conditions. Depending on the trim level, you can choose from Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, Mud and Sand, Rock and Dirt, and Trail modes. These modes adjust the throttle response, transmission shift points, steering effort, and traction control settings to optimize the RAV4’s behavior.
How Spacious Is It?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 has a roomy and comfortable cabin accommodating up to five passengers. The front seats are supportive and adjustable, with plenty of headroom and legroom. The rear seats are also spacious and reclining, with ample space for adults and children. The RAV4 also offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. You can also opt for a power liftgate and a hands-free feature that makes loading and unloading easier.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 has a modern and user-friendly interior design, with a simple and intuitive layout of the controls and features. The materials are of high quality and durability, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive accents. The RAV4 also offers a range of convenience and comfort features, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, a digital rearview mirror, and a head-up display.
How Does It Compare to the Competition?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 faces stiff competition from other compact SUVs in the market, such as the Honda CR-V, the Mazda CX-5, and the Volkswagen Tiguan. Here’s how they stack up against the RAV4 in terms of price, performance, fuel economy, and features.
| Model | Base Price | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Cargo Space (cu. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Toyota RAV4 | $28,475 | 2.5L 4-cyl | 203 | 184 | 37.6/69.8 |
| Honda CR-V | $29,500 | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl | 190 | 179 | 39.2/75.8 |
| Mazda CX-5 | $30,675 | 2.5L turbo 4-cyl | 250 | 320 | 30.9/59.6 |
| 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan | $29,855 | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl | 184 | 221 | 37.6/73.5 |
As you can see, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 offers a competitive balance of price, performance, fuel economy, and features compared to its rivals. It also has an edge in terms of styling, reliability, and resale value. However, some competitors may offer more power, cargo space, or advanced technology, depending on your preferences and needs. Therefore, it’s important to do your research and test-drive different models before making a final decision.
