RAV4 4th Generation
Toyota
2012 - 2018
Description
The fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 (2012-2018) adopted a more aggressive muscular design language with prominent wheel arches and angular styling that moved away from the softer rounded appearance of previous generations, targeting younger buyers seeking adventurous image alongside practical functionality. This generation maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor at 4570mm length but featured revised proportions with a lower roofline and wider stance creating a more dynamic road presence that appealed to style-conscious crossover shoppers. The refined 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 176 horsepower became the sole powerplant in most markets, eliminating the V6 option but delivering improved fuel economy of 7.5-9.0 liters per 100 kilometers while maintaining adequate performance for daily driving needs. Interior quality progressed with soft-touch dashboard materials, improved ergonomics, available 7-inch touchscreen with navigation, and thoughtful storage solutions that addressed criticisms of the previous generation. The available Dynamic Torque Control all-wheel-drive system could send up to 50 percent of engine power to the rear wheels when needed, providing confident capability in challenging conditions while operating in fuel-efficient front-wheel drive during normal cruising.
General Information
Braking & Suspension
Dimensions & Weight
Trunk & Interior
Wheels & Tires
Performance Range
Performance figures vary by engine modification.
Safety & Equipment
Classification & Production
Gallery
Advantages
- The bold distinctive styling with aggressive front fascia, pronounced wheel arches, and dynamic character lines creates strong visual presence that stands out in crowded parking lots while appealing to buyers seeking adventurous image rather than conservative anonymity.
- Improved fuel economy achieves 7.5-9.0 liters per 100 kilometers in combined driving thanks to the efficient 2.5-liter engine and revised aerodynamics, providing meaningful savings at the pump compared to the previous generation V6 while maintaining adequate performance.
- The practical spacious interior offers comfortable seating for five adults with generous rear legroom, versatile 547-liter cargo area that handles family vacation luggage with ease, and clever storage compartments throughout the cabin including oversized door pockets.
- Legendary Toyota reliability ensures minimal unexpected repairs with proven powertrains easily exceeding 250,000 kilometers, while the simplified single-engine lineup reduces complexity and potential maintenance concerns compared to multiple engine options.
- Comprehensive standard safety features include stability control, traction control, multiple airbags, and available blind-spot monitoring providing strong crash protection that earned five-star safety ratings giving families peace of mind.
Pay Attention
- The controversial polarizing exterior styling with busy surfacing, angular details, and aggressive stance appeals to some buyers but alienates others seeking more refined elegant appearance, potentially affecting resale value to conservative buyers.
- The firm sporty suspension tuning transmits road imperfections harshly into the cabin creating a busy unsettled ride over broken pavement that feels less comfortable than softer-riding competitors like the Honda CR-V on rough urban roads.
- Interior materials quality varies dramatically between trim levels with base models featuring extensive hard plastics throughout the cabin that feel cheap compared to upscale competitors, requiring expensive upgrades to premium trims for satisfactory fit and finish.
- The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine feels underpowered when fully loaded or climbing steep grades requiring frequent throttle input to maintain momentum, with 8.8-second 0-100 km/h acceleration falling behind turbocharged competitors.
- Road and wind noise increase noticeably at highway speeds above 110 km/h particularly on models with larger wheels and all-terrain tires, creating intrusive cabin environment that requires raised voices during conversation.