The Toyota RAV4, a ubiquitous sight on city streets and country roads alike, returns for 2024 with a refresh that refines its familiar charms while retaining its adventurous spirit. We put the popular SUV through its paces to see if it maintains its crown as king of the compact crossover jungle.
Design: Evolution, not Revolution
The RAV4’s exterior adopts a subtle evolution rather than a radical overhaul. The signature grille remains prominent, flanked by sharper headlights and a more sculpted hood. The profile features bolder wheel arches and a revised taillight design, giving the SUV a more planted and dynamic stance. Overall, the changes enhance the RAV4’s presence without straying too far from its established visual identity.
Interior: Comfort and Convenience reign supreme
The cabin is where the RAV4 truly shines. High-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces elevate the ambiance, while spacious seating accommodates five adults comfortably. The infotainment system boasts a responsive touchscreen and intuitive controls, keeping you connected and informed. Cargo space remains generous, making the RAV4 a practical choice for family adventures and weekend getaways.
Performance: A Balanced Symphony
The RAV4 offers a choice of powertrains. The base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers adequate power for everyday driving, while the hybrid variant provides impressive fuel efficiency and a zippy electric boost. The optional all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence on rough terrain and slippery roads. The suspension strikes a commendable balance between comfort and agility, offering a smooth ride without sacrificing handling during spirited maneuvers.
Toyota RAV4 2024 Rivals and Prices: Weighing Your Options
In the UK and Europe, the RAV4 faces stiff competition from a diverse range of rivals. Here’s a quick snapshot:
UK:
- Ford Kuga: Offers sporty handling and a wider range of engine options, but falls short in fuel efficiency.
- Kia Sportage: Boasts a stylish design and generous warranty, but the interior quality might not match the RAV4.
- Hyundai Tucson: Provides a similar feature set at a slightly lower price, but the driving experience might not be as refined.
Europe:
- Volkswagen Tiguan: Offers a well-rounded driving experience and premium touches, but comes at a steeper price.
- Peugeot 3008: Boasts a unique and futuristic interior, but might feel cramped for taller passengers.
- Škoda Karoq: Offers great value for money and practicality, but lacks the RAV4’s hybrid powertrain option.
UK Prices:
- Starts at £27,345 for the base 2.0L
- Hybrid variants start at £30,645
- All-wheel-drive adds £2,000 across trims
Europe Prices:
- Starts at €32,990 for the base 2.0L
- Hybrid variants start at €35,990
- All-wheel-drive adds €2,500 across trims
The Verdict: A Worthy Contender with Enduring Appeal
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 builds upon its strengths, offering a refined and comfortable driving experience, spacious interior, and proven reliability. While not the most exciting option in its segment, the RAV4’s balanced performance, practical features, and competitive price tag make it a compelling choice for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether navigating city streets or exploring the countryside, the RAV4 remains a versatile and dependable companion, justifying its popularity and earning its place among the top contenders in the compact SUV market.
Final Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Highlights:
- Refined and comfortable interior
- Spacious and practical cargo space
- Choice of fuel-efficient hybrid and traditional gasoline engines
- Available all-wheel-drive for added confidence
- Competitive pricing and strong reliability reputation
Lowlights:
- Design changes might be too subtle for some
- Base engine lacks excitement
- Some rivals offer more features for the price
