The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact SUVs in the world, with more than 10 million units sold since its debut in 1994. It's also the best-selling vehicle in the US that's not a pickup truck, thanks to its spacious interior, versatile cargo capacity, reliable performance, and advanced safety features. But Toyota is not resting. For the 2024 model year, the RAV4 gets a few updates that make it even more appealing to buyers looking for a practical and stylish SUV.
New Color and Trim Options
One of the most noticeable changes for the 2024 Toyota RAV4 is the addition of a new exterior color: Wilderness Green. This earthy hue replaces the previous Lunar Rock color and gives the RAV4 a more adventurous and rugged look. The new color is available on all trim levels except for the TRD Off-Road and Prime models.
Speaking of the TRD Off-Road, this trail-ready variant of the RAV4 also gets some enhancements for 2024. It now comes with a standard power liftgate that can be opened and closed with a touch of a button or a wave of a foot under the rear bumper. This feature makes it easier to load and unload cargo when your hands are full or dirty. The TRD Off-Road also gets a new black roof rack that adds some contrast to the body color and provides extra space for carrying bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear.
Another trim level that gets some updates is the RAV4 Hybrid XSE, which is the sportiest version of the hybrid model. It now features black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels that complement its two-tone exterior color scheme. The wheels also have a machined finish that adds some shine and sophistication. The Hybrid XSE also gets a new 9-inch touchscreen display that replaces the previous 8-inch unit. The larger screen makes it easier to see and control the infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
More Standard Features
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 also offers more value for money by adding some features that were previously optional or unavailable to the standard equipment list. For example, all models now come with LED fog lights that improve visibility in low-light conditions. They also have heated side mirrors that prevent fogging or icing in cold weather. Additionally, all models except for the base LE trim have rain-sensing windshield wipers that automatically adjust their speed according to the amount of rainfall.
Another feature that becomes standard on all RAV4 models for 2024 is the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of driver assistance technologies. This system includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic high beams, and blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert. These features help prevent or mitigate accidents by alerting or assisting the driver in various situations.
Same Reliable Performance
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 does not change much in terms of performance, which is not a bad thing considering how well it performs already. The gasoline-only models are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The Toyota RAV4 can tow up to 1,500 pounds (or up to 3,500 pounds on the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims) and has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined.
The hybrid models use the same 2.5-liter engine but with an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination results in 219 horsepower and an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway/40 mpg combined. The hybrid models can also tow up to 1,750 pounds and have an electronic on-demand all-wheel-drive system that enhances traction and stability on slippery roads.
The plug-in hybrid model, known as the Toyota RAV4 Prime, is the most powerful and efficient variant of the RAV4. It has a total system output of 302 horsepower, which allows it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. It also has an EPA-estimated electric range of 42 miles and a combined fuel economy of 94 MPGe. The RAV4 Prime can tow up to 2,500 pounds and has a standard all-wheel-drive system with a dedicated rear electric motor.
Pricing and Availability
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is expected to arrive at dealerships in the fall of 2023. The pricing for the gasoline-only models starts at $27,425 for the base LE trim and goes up to $37,155 for the TRD Off-Road trim. The hybrid models start at $29,675 for the LE Hybrid trim and go up to $38,255 for the Limited Hybrid trim. The Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid model starts at $39,275 for the SE Prime trim and goes up to $42,775 for the XSE Prime trim. All prices include a destination charge of $1,175.
The new Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a lot of features, performance, and value for its price. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly vehicle, an off-road companion, or an eco-friendly commuter, the RAV4 has a model that suits your needs and preferences. With its new color and trim options, more standard features, and the same reliable performance, the 2024 RAV4 is ready to go wild in style.
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