Table of Contents
Why the New RAV4 Deserves a Test Drive
When Toyota refreshed its best‑selling compact SUV, the changes were subtle on the outside but far more significant inside. The new RAV4 offers a hybrid powertrain, a host of digital displays, and a price that starts at almost $46,000 on‑road. For drivers who have spent a decade in the previous model, the question is whether the upgrades justify the extra cost.
Interior and Technology: A Digital Leap
The cabin now features two large screens that replace the single instrument cluster of the old model. A 12.3‑inch digital gauge panel sits beside a 10.5‑ or 12.9‑inch touchscreen that controls everything from climate to navigation. Toyota calls the software “Aren,” which the reviewer notes is noticeably faster and more intuitive than the previous system. Built‑in satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a dash‑cam that records automatically when an accident is detected are all standard.
While the new layout feels modern, the reviewer points out that many controls have migrated to the touchscreen, leaving fewer physical buttons. The steering‑wheel‑mounted driver‑monitor camera, designed to detect drowsiness, can be overly sensitive, prompting the reviewer to lower its sensitivity or turn it off entirely.
Powertrain and Performance: Hybrid Tweaks
The new RAV4’s 2.5‑liter four‑cylinder engine has been detuned, producing 105 kW, down from the previous 130 kW. The electric motors are more powerful, but the combined output is now 143 kW for front‑wheel drive and 163 kW for all‑wheel drive. The reviewer notes that the car feels less peppy than its predecessor, especially when accelerating from a stop or overtaking on the freeway. Nevertheless, the transition between electric and petrol power is smoother, and the steering feels more direct, albeit slightly heavier.
Toyota offers the hybrid in several trims, from the entry‑level GX to the top‑tier Cruiser. Prices rise from $45,990 for the GX to $56,990 for the Cruiser, and plug‑in hybrids start at $58,840. The reviewer highlights that the price increase of $3,180 to $5,930 over the previous model makes the RAV4 more expensive than rivals such as the Tucson, Sportage, and CRV hybrids.
Driving Experience and Comfort on the Road
On a long drive from Melbourne to Sydney, the reviewer found the cabin quiet and comfortable. The 20‑inch alloy wheels on the Cruiser trim add a touch of sportiness, but they also bring more road noise compared to smaller wheels. The suspension is firmer than the old model, filtering bumps less effectively, yet it still delivers a confident ride on country roads.
Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane‑keep assist, and blind‑spot monitoring work well, though the driver‑monitor system can be overly aggressive. The reviewer also tested an “eco‑run” mode that reduces throttle response to save fuel, a feature that shows how much slipstream the car can generate behind a truck.
Fuel Economy and Real‑World Performance
During the highway portion of the trip, the reviewer recorded a fuel consumption of 5.8 L per 100 km, slightly better than the mid‑5s expected from a hybrid SUV. The car’s electric‑only mode provides a modest punch at low speeds, but the reviewer notes that it is not as fast as the previous RAV4 when the engine is engaged.
Overall, the new RAV4 delivers a comfortable, quiet ride with respectable fuel economy. The reviewer concludes that while the vehicle is a solid family SUV, the higher price and less lively performance may leave some buyers wanting more compared to competitors that offer more space and a more engaging driving feel.
Final Takeaway
The refreshed RAV4 is a step forward in technology and interior design, but it comes at a premium. Its hybrid powertrain offers decent fuel savings, and the cabin feels modern, yet the heavier steering and firmer suspension may not appeal to those who prized the old model’s effortless handling. For buyers who value reliability and a familiar Toyota badge, the new RAV4 remains a strong choice, but those seeking a more dynamic or spacious SUV might look elsewhere.