Toyota RAV4 - WikiHQ

The is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. Having sold over 15million units worldwide , the RAV4 is the best-selling SUV of all time.

The car is credited with popularizing compact crossover automobiles, often credited as the first modern compact crossover SUV. In February 2025, the RAV4 replaced the Ford F-150 as the best-selling car in the United States, after nearly four decades of the latter's reign.

It made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994, and in North America in 1995, being launched in January 1996. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the maneuverability of a mid-size car. The vehicle's name is an abbreviation of "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", or "Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", although not all models come equipped with the four-wheel drive system.

For the third-generation model, Toyota offered both short- and long-wheelbase versions of the RAV4. Short-wheelbase versions were sold in Japan and Europe; long-wheelbase versions in Australia and North America. Toyota of Japan also sold the longer-wheelbase version as the at Toyopet Store dealership chain from 2005 through 2016. RAV4 for the Japanese market were sold at two different Toyota dealership chains, Corolla Store and Netz.

First generation (XA10; 1994)

The first-generation RAV4, known as the XA10 series, was constructed on a unique platform that shared Carina and Corolla elements. It launched in Japan in May 1994. Design and development commenced in 1989 under code-name 153T, with design approval and start of production development in the second half of 1991 on the 3-door version and in 1993 for the 5-door version. In March 1995, the 5-door was launched and introduced to the US in January 1996, with standard dual airbags.

The XA10 series was available in both three and five door versions. In the US, a 2.0-litre straight-four producing was available. Both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive were available, and the RAV4 could be had with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. It was named the 1997 Automobile of the Year by Automobile Magazine. The 1996-1997 model years had headlamps with a bracket push in type, dual filament bulb. The front running/turn signal lamps used older round socket dual filament bulbs. The rear used round socket type bulbs as well. In 1997 for the 1998 model year, the RAV4 was slightly restyled on the front and rear fascias, and a soft top three-door was made available. Power was increased slightly to . In June 1999, the two-door hardtop was dropped from the American lineup, leaving the five-door and soft top models. The 1998–2000 models used a single filament headlamp, with two different beams per housing (low and high beam) opposed to the original single beam with dual filaments. The rear lamps use the more modern rectangular style bulbs (7440/7443). The interior has subtle changes such as different coloured seats, different coloured door panels, extra cup holders on certain models (cigarette lighter/cup holder duo), and a digital odometer. In Japan, the 2.0-litre 3S-GE BEAMS engine with was also available. Some variants of the 1998 Toyota RAV4 were labeled as SXA11 rather than XA10, paired with an owner-given name of "RAV 4.1".

The 1996 RAV4 got between 21 and 23 miles per gallon (4.2 to 4.8 gals per 100 miles) of combined city/highway driving.

File:1995 Toyota RAV4 (SXA11R) Cruiser wagon (2015-07-14) 02.jpg|Pre-facelift Toyota RAV4 5-door

File:1996 Toyota RAV4 Max 2.0 Rear.jpg|Pre-facelift Toyota RAV4 hard-top

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RAV4 EV

The RAV4 EV is a plug-in, all-electric variant of the RAV4. Produced from 1997 to 2003 for fleet lease, this "zero emission" model was only offered for public sale for seven months in 2002, in very small quantities in California. Powered by an advanced Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack capable of storing 27 kWh, the RAV4 EV can go up to between charges, and came with a battery warranty. A total of 1,484 units were leased and/or sold in California, and as of mid-2012, almost 500 units were still in use.

Facelift

File:1999 Toyota RAV4 (SXA11R) Cruiser wagon (2011-11-17) 01.jpg|Facelift RAV4 Cruiser 5-door

File:1999 Toyota RAV4 (SXA11R) Cruiser wagon (2011-11-17) 02.jpg|Facelift RAV4 Cruiser 5-door

File:1999 Toyota RAV4 GX Automatic 2.0 Rear.jpg|Facelift RAV4 3-door hardtop

File:1998 Toyota RAV4 (SXA10R) softtop (2016-01-04).jpg|Facelift RAV4 3-door softtop

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Safety

{| class="wikitable"

|+IIHS scores (1996 model year)

|Moderate overlap front (original test)

| style="color:black;background:orange" |Marginal

Second generation (XA20; 2000)

The second-generation RAV4, known as the XA20 series, went on sale in July 2000. Like the previous model, the XA20 was available in three- and five-door configurations and was constructed on a platform that shared Carina and Corolla elements. Development began in 1995, with a design freeze in the first half of 1998. Styling was done at Calty Design Research Incorporated (also simply known as Calty) by Yasuhide Hosoda and Kevin Hunter from 1996 to 1997. Although the RAV4 was available as a three-door in Europe, Asia and Australia, the American model was only available in a five-door configuration. A 1.8-litre inline-four engine (only with 2WD) producing , 2.0-litre inline-four engine producing , 2.4-litre inline-four engine producing , and a D-4D diesel engine were available.

In Australia, the RAV4 came in base Edge and upmarket Cruiser models in both three- and five-door configurations. All models came equipped with a brand-new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine featuring VVT (variable valve timing), resulting in improved power and torque, as well as fuel consumption. Permanent four-wheel drive was featured. The second generation RAV4 enjoyed success in Australia, where it became the best-selling SUV in the country in 2001, overtaking its rival the Honda CR-V for the first time.

File:2001-2003 Toyota RAV4 rear 4.19.18.jpg|Pre-facelift Toyota RAV4 L 5-door

Toyota RAV4 (XA20) in Jamaica.jpg|Pre-facelift Toyota RAV4 3-door

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Facelift (2003)

In late 2003, the 2004 model RAV4 was given a styling update, improved equipment, and, in certain markets, a new engine. In the United States the safety structure was improved and Vehicle Stability Control made standard. The RAV4's 2.0-litre engine was upgraded with a new 2.4-litre engine in the US and Australia producing and . Other countries got mostly 5-door models with the 2.0-litre VVT-i engine. Automatic electric air conditioning also became available. European models got a new catalytic converter because of the new European emission policy. The new model also got an electric throttle.

In Australia, for the facelift, the base Edge was renamed CV, and gained standard air conditioning (previously an option). The CV also received painted bumpers, which came in either silver or body-coloured shades, depending on the body colour. In addition, the model range was given a subtle facelift, consisting largely of a new front bumper with circular fog lights and white turn signals instead of the older orange lights. In 2005, a new "CV Sport" model was added to the range in Australia, which included a non-functional bonnet scoop, giving the RAV4 a more aggressive appearance. The CV Sport model was short-lived, lasting only a year, and was introduced primarily to stimulate sales until the new model arrived in early 2006.

The second generation RAV4 had the highest proportion of female drivers among all makes and models in the United States, with the possible exception of the Volkswagen New Beetle, according to 2003–2004 registration and survey data.

File:2003 Toyota RAV4 01.jpg|Facelift RAV4 3-door

RAV4 2-Door 2nd Gen.JPG|Facelift RAV4 3-door

File:Toyota RAV4 II Facelift rear 20090923.jpg|Facelift RAV4 5-door

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Safety

{| class="wikitable"

|+IIHS scores (2001 model year)

|Moderate overlap front (original test)

| style="color:black;background:yellow" |Acceptable

|Side impact (original test)

| style="color:black;background:red" |Poor

Third generation (XA30; 2005)

The Toyota RAV4 was redesigned for the 2006 model year, using an all-new platform, and was first unveiled at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The third-generation RAV4 was offered in two versions: a short- or a long-wheelbase model. The short-wheelbase model was sold only in Japan, Europe and New Zealand (diesel only in NZ), with the long-wheelbase RAV4 sold in Australia, New Zealand and North America. In comparison with the previous generation model, the wheelbase of the short-wheelbase model was increased by , while exterior dimensions are longer and wider than the previous model. The extended-length version has an additional 21% in interior volume from the last generation, and had an optional third-row for two additional passengers (North America and Japan only). Since 2007, the extended-length RAV4 was also sold alongside its shorter counterpart in Japan as the Toyota Vanguard, which uses a revised front-end body work incorporating a revised grille, bumper, bonnet and headlamps.

The third-generation RAV4 went on sale in Japan in 2005 at Netz dealers. As the XA30 series RAV4 was not available with a 3-door option, the previous generation 3-door RAV4 was dropped in the beginning of 2007. The XA30 series RAV4 was sold in Japan until July 2016, where the XA40 was not to be offered. Toyota discontinued the Vanguard in November 2013 in favour of the redesigned XU60 Harrier.

For this generation, the RAV4 could be optioned with either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive in North America and Japan; while most countries only sell the four-wheel drive version. In the Japanese market four-wheel drive RAV4, between 97 and 98 percent of power is typically distributed to the front wheels, until it senses a loss of traction then up to 45 percent of power will go the rear wheels. The European market model is able to be locked into a 50:50 ratio.

The third-generation RAV4 is also equipped with electric power steering (EPS) system, an optional keyless entry system marketed as Smart Entry and Start System and nine airbags for the first time. In the interior, the RAV4 uses a two-tiered instrument panel which was designed to improve the feel of roominess.

Another addition for the third-generation RAV4 is the option of a V6 engine in some markets. It is a 3.5-litre 2GR-FE petrol engine that is rated at , which is capable of acceleration in around six seconds.

In 2008 (for the 2009 model year), the RAV4 was given a mid-cycle refresh in some markets, featuring a number of changes, including an all-new four-cylinder engine, and a redesigned front end and tweaked rear end. Much of the interior remains as before.

In 2010 (for the 2011 model year), the RAV4 underwent another facelift, based on the Vanguard's styling.

The vehicles were built in Toyota's Tahara, Aichi assembly plant, and under contract by Toyota Industries in its Nagakusa, Obu, Aichi plant. Beginning in November 2008, vehicles for the North American market were built in the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. at the new West Plant in Woodstock, Ontario. Beginning in March 2009, Chinese models began production by Tianjin FAW Toyota Motor Co. Ltd. in a joint-venture plant in Tianjin, China.

In 2015, the XA30 series RAV4 was awarded the WheelsTV pre-owned vehicle of the year title.

File:2008 Toyota RAV4 XTR D4-D 2.2 Rear.jpg|Pre-facelift RAV4 XTR

File:2006 Toyota RAV4 (ACA33R) CV wagon (2016-01-04).jpg|Pre-facelift RAV4 CV

File:2008 Toyota RAV4 (GSA33R MY09) ZR6 wagon (2008-10-10) 01.jpg|Interior

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Markets

Japan

thumb|Toyota Vanguard (Japan; pre-facelift)

Model ranges include X, G and Sport, replacing RAV4 L and RAV4 J. The X and G can be ordered with either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The Sport model with over fenders is four-wheel drive only. The extended-length RAV4 was sold in Japan as the Toyota Vanguard, released in August 2007. The V6 was available from 2007.

Middle East

In the Middle East, the third-generation RAV4 was available with a 2.4-litre engine. Most markets, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), get the four-wheel drive model with an automatic gearbox, but KSA additionally gets a two-wheel-drive model as well, the base one with a manual gearbox.

North America

North American models include choices of 2.4-litre 2AZ-FE inline-four or 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engine. The V6 model has . In model year 2009, a slightly larger 2.5-litre 2AR-FE inline-four replaced the previous 2.4-litre engine. Either four-cylinder engine came equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission. The North American RAV4 with 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engine is fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission. All US models feature Toyota's Star Safety System which includes Vehicle Stability Control. The new RAV4 topped Toyota SUV sales in the United States for the first time.

No manual transmission or diesel engines are available on North American models.

Facelifted for the 2009 model year, North American models include the choice of a new 2AR-FE inline-four or 2GR-FE V6 engine. In 2009, it was also the first time that the Canadian market received a front-wheel drive model to lower the price of entry.

Mexico

In Mexico, the third-generation RAV4 was available in Base and Limited trim levels, but on the Limited trim 4WD became an option and the Base model added 17-inch steel wheels but the roof rack was still standard in both trims. For the refresh of 2009 the roof rack in the Base model was eliminated as standard equipment and the Sport trim was added to the line-up. Up to 2008MY all RAV4s in Mexico had four-cylinder engines but for 2009 the Sport model became available with the V6 engine, although the four-cylinder engine was still available. The Limited trim was only available with the V6 engine and four-wheel drive. For 2010, the RAV4 in Mexico has been simplified again to two trims but the Limited trim was dropped and consequently removed the four-wheel drive option, while the Base and Sport trims remained unchanged from 2009.

China

The XA30 RAV4 commenced production in China in April 2009. Trim levels were the 2.0 Classic, 2.0 Luxury, 2.0 Luxury Navi, 2.4 Luxury and 2.4 Luxury Navi. The 2.0-litre 1AZ-FE and 2.4-litre 2AZ-FE were standard paired to a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic gearbox.

The China-specific model had different styling compared to those sold in other countries, with a black strip that was placed in between the radiator and license plate like a moustache. It also had chrome bars below the front and rear bumpers. The license plate was also moved to the bottom bumper area to make way for the RAV4 logo and a rear fog lamp. Front and rear parking sensors are also standard.

First facelift

File:2011 Toyota RAV4 4WD, front right, 07-09-2023.jpg|First facelift RAV4

File:2011 Toyota RAV4 4WD, rear right, 07-09-2023.jpg|First facelift RAV4

Toyota RAV4 2.4 Style (DBA-ACA36W) rear.jpg|First facelift RAV4

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Second facelift

File:Toyota RAV4 (III, 2. Facelift) – f 30012025.jpg|Second facelift RAV4

File:Toyota RAV4 (III, 2. Facelift) – h 30012025.jpg|Second facelift RAV4

2010 Toyota RAV4 XT-R D-Cat Automatic facelift 2.2 Rear.jpg|Second facelift RAV4 (without spare wheel)

</gallery>

Body styles

{| class="wikitable"

|+ Body styles

!Chassis codes (DBA-A)!!ACA31W!!ACA36W!!ACA33L!!ACA37L!!GSA30!!GSA33!!GSA35!!ALA30!!ALA31!!ALA36!!ZSA30!!ZSA35

| Drive || 4WD || FWD || 4WD || FWD || FWD || 4WD || 4WD || 4WD || 4WD || FWD || FWD || 4WD

| Engine (Japan) || 2AZ-FE || 2AZ-FE || - || - || - || 2GR-FE || - || - || - || - || - || -

| Engine (China) || - || - || 2AZ-FE || 1AZ-FE || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || -

| Engine (Europe) || - || - || - || - || 2GR-FE || - || 2GR-FE || - || 2AD-FTV || 2AD-FTV || 3ZR-FAE || 3ZR-FAE

Engines

{| class="wikitable"

|+ Engines

!Code!!Years!!Type/code!!Power, torque at rpm

| 1AZ-FE (2.0 VVT-i) || 2005–2012 || rowspan=2 | (86.0 mm × 86.0 mm) I4 || at 6,000 rpm, at 4,000 rpm

| 1AZ-FE (2.0 VVT-i) || 2007MY–2008MY (UK) || at 6,000 rpm, at 4,000 rpm

| 2AZ-FE || 2005–2008 || (88.5 mm × 96.0 mm) I4 || at 6,300 rpm, at 4,000 rpm

| 2AR-FE || 2009–2012 || (90.0 mm × 98.0 mm) I4 || at 6,300 rpm, at 4,000 rpm

| 2GR-FE || 2005–2012 || (94.0 mm × 83.0 mm) V6 || at 6,200 rpm, at 4,700 rpm

| 3ZR-FAE (2.0 Valvematic) || 2008–2012 || (80.5 mm × 97.6 mm) I4 || at 6,200 rpm, at 4,400 rpm

| 2.0 D-4D || 2005–2006MY || (82.2 mm × 94.0 mm) I4 || at 4,000 rpm, at 1,800–3,000 rpm

| 2.2 D-4D Diesel || 2007MY–2008MY || rowspan=4 | (86.0 mm × 96.0 mm) I4 || at 3,600 rpm, at 2,000–2,800 rpm

| 2.2 D-4D Diesel 180 (UK) || 2007MY || at 3,600 rpm, at 2,000–2,600 rpm

| 2.2 D-4D, 2.2 D-CAT (UK) || 2008–2012 || at 3,600 rpm, at 2,000–2,800 rpm

| 2.2 D-CAT || 2008–2012 || at 3,600 rpm, at 2,000–2,800 rpm

RAV4 EV

thumb|Toyota RAV4 EV

Toyota worked together with Tesla Motors to develop the second generation RAV4 EV; the electric SUV was scheduled for market launch late in the third quarter of 2012. Production was limited to 2,600 units during the first three years, and sales were limited to California only, beginning with the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles/Orange County and San Diego.

The second generation RAV4 EV has a motor powered by a 41.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that Toyota expects to deliver a US Environmental Protection Agency rated range of in standard charge mode and in extended charge mode, for a combined range of and a combined fuel economy rating of . The RAV4 EV battery pack and electronic components are similar to those used in the Tesla Model S sedan launched in June 2012, because Tesla Motors is the manufacturer of the powertrain. About 2,500 RAV4 EVs were built between 2012 and August 2014, with the battery supply deal between Toyota and Tesla concluding with the end of production.

Safety

ANCAP

Euro NCAP

IIHS

{| class="wikitable"

|+IIHS scores (2006 model year)

|Moderate overlap front (original test)

| style="color:white;background: green" |Good

|Side impact (original test)

| style="color:white;background: green" |Good

|Roof strength

| style="color:black;background:yellow" |Acceptable

|Head restraints and seats

| style="color:black;background:orange" |Marginal

Fourth generation (XA40; 2012)