The Toyota RAV4 has long been a favorite among SUV lovers, especially in the American market where it consistently ranks as one of the best-selling vehicles. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 continues this legacy, introducing several updates that make it a compelling choice in the competitive SUV landscape.
In this article, we will explore the redesign and features of the 2024 RAV4, covering everything from its exterior design to its powertrain options, interior features, and overall performance.
Table of contents
Introduction to the 2024 Toyota RAV4
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 builds on the strengths of its predecessors, offering a robust combination of style, performance, and practicality. Known for its reliability and versatility, the RAV4 appeals to a wide range of drivers, from families to outdoor enthusiasts. This year, Toyota has introduced several updates to keep the RAV4 fresh and competitive.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the 2024 RAV4 maintains its familiar rugged and boxy look, which has become a signature of this model. However, there are notable changes that enhance its appeal.
One of the most striking updates is the introduction of a new color option: Army Green. Previously available only on the TRD models of the Tundra and Tacoma, this color is now an option for the RAV4’s Adventure, Woodland Edition, and TRD Off-Road trims. The Army Green color gives the RAV4 a bold and distinctive appearance, particularly suited for off-road enthusiasts.
The front fascia of the Adventure trim has also been updated, featuring a tougher and more aggressive look. The lower elements of the front bumper have a chunky silver design that adds to the vehicle’s rugged appeal.
The LED headlights have a sleek and modern appearance, with daytime running lights and integrated turn signals. The off-road trims have LED fog lamps positioned higher up in the center section, contributing to a beefier look.
At the rear, the RAV4 continues to showcase a boxy and robust design. The taillights feature a combination of LED and incandescent elements.
The Adventure model, in particular, has a distinctive silver finish on the lower rear bumper and dual integrated exposed exhaust outlets, enhancing its sporty look. The tow rating for the off-road-focused trims has been increased from 1,500 lbs to an impressive 3,500 lbs, making the RAV4 more capable for towing needs.
Powertrain Options
Under the hood, the 2024 RAV4 offers several powertrain options to cater to different driving preferences. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient performance. All-wheel drive is standard on the Adventure, Woodland Edition, and TRD Off-Road trims, while front-wheel drive is the standard option for other trims.
In addition to the traditional gas engine, the RAV4 also offers a hybrid option. The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors to produce a total of 219 horsepower.
This setup not only provides more power but also delivers better fuel efficiency, with an estimated 40 mpg combined. The hybrid model uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) for a seamless driving experience.
For those seeking even more efficiency, Toyota offers a plug-in hybrid variant known as the RAV4 Prime. This model features a larger battery pack and can operate in all-electric mode for shorter commutes, with a total range of over 40 miles on electric power alone.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside the 2024 RAV4, drivers and passengers will find a well-designed and comfortable cabin. The Adventure trim, which we had the opportunity to review, features unique interior accents and materials that set it apart from other trims. The seats are upholstered in SofTex faux leather, which is both durable and easy to clean.
The Adventure trim offers two color options: black and mocha, with premium stitching and a tire tread design on the seat centers.
One of the highlights of the RAV4’s interior is its spaciousness. The vehicle offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. With 38 inches of legroom and 39.5 inches of headroom in the rear, the RAV4 provides a comfortable ride for all occupants. The rear seats can also be folded down in a 60/40 split configuration, expanding the cargo space to a maximum of 70 cubic feet.
The RAV4 is equipped with a range of convenience features, including an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support. Higher trims, such as the Limited, offer additional luxuries like memory seats and ventilated front seats. The Adventure trim includes a standard sunroof, with the option to upgrade to a panoramic sunroof for an even more open and airy feel.
Technology and Infotainment
Toyota has equipped the 2024 RAV4 with the latest technology and infotainment features to enhance the driving experience.
The vehicle comes with two display options: an 8-inch or a 9-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim level. The Limited and TRD Off-Road trims come standard with the larger 9-inch display, while lower trims have the 8-inch screen as standard, with the option to upgrade.
Both display options feature Toyota’s latest infotainment software, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows drivers to seamlessly connect their smartphones to the vehicle’s system for navigation, music, and other apps.
The infotainment system also includes voice recognition, making it easy to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel.
In terms of audio, the RAV4 comes with a standard six-speaker sound system. For those who prefer a more premium audio experience, the JBL sound system is available as an upgrade. This system includes a subwoofer and amplifier, providing a richer and more immersive sound quality.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Toyota has always been committed to safety, and the 2024 RAV4 is no exception. The vehicle comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect both the driver and passengers.
This includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.
The RAV4 also includes several driver assistance features to make driving easier and safer. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer additional features such as a 360-degree camera system, parking sensors, and a digital rearview mirror.
Performance and Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2024 RAV4 is marked by its smooth and responsive handling. The 2.5-liter engine provides ample power for most driving situations, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
For those who opt for the hybrid model, the driving experience is further enhanced by the additional power from the electric motors.
The hybrid system delivers quick acceleration and smooth power delivery, making it a great choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
The RAV4’s suspension system is well-tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and composed ride. This is particularly noticeable when driving over rough or uneven surfaces, where the RAV4 excels at maintaining stability and comfort.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is a significant consideration for many SUV buyers, and the 2024 RAV4 does not disappoint. The traditional gas-powered model achieves an estimated 28 mpg combined for all-wheel-drive versions and 30 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models.
These figures are impressive for a vehicle in this segment, making the RAV4 a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance driving.
The hybrid model takes fuel efficiency to the next level, with an estimated 40 mpg combined. This makes the RAV4 Hybrid one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime offers even greater efficiency, with the added benefit of all-electric driving for shorter trips.
Pricing and Value
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is competitively priced, offering a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences.
The base LE model starts at just over $28,000, providing an affordable entry point into the RAV4 lineup. As you move up the trim levels, additional features and luxuries are added, increasing the overall value of the vehicle.
The Adventure model, which includes many of the off-road features and design elements discussed earlier, starts at around $34,700. With various options and packages available, the price can increase, but the RAV4 remains a good value for the features and capabilities it offers. The fully-loaded Limited trim can reach higher price points, particularly if you opt for the hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions.
My Final Thoughts
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 continues to build on its reputation as a reliable, versatile, and stylish SUV. With its updated exterior design, powerful and efficient powertrain options, and a host of advanced technology and safety features, the RAV4 remains a top choice in its segment.
Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle, an off-road adventurer, or a fuel-efficient daily driver, the 2024 RAV4 offers something for everyone.
From the new Army Green color option to the enhanced towing capacity and the availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, the 2024 RAV4 has been thoughtfully updated to meet the needs and preferences of today’s drivers. Its combination of practicality, performance, and value makes it a standout choice in the crowded SUV market.
If you’re in the market for a new SUV, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 is definitely worth considering. Its blend of rugged design, advanced features, and impressive fuel economy make it a vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions and lifestyles.
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