DRIVEN + VIDEO: FIRST Impression Of The 2019 Toyota RAV4 — Would You Add One To Your Fleet?

It's pretty amazing to see how vehicles go through evolution. Some get bigger, some get smaller and all get more technology.

The RAV4 nameplate has been around for more than 20 years now and it continues to be a strong selling vehicle. But, if we're honest, it's always been a bit femme or downright peculiar. For 2019 though, we get an all-new RAV4 and it finally has some proper design.

Boasting a look that I feel brings forward a bit of the grunt from the 4Runner, the RAV4's side profile is more angular and almost Lexus NX like. On the inside the interior is completely overhauled with pretty good space in the front, rear and cargo areas.

Having been piloting one this week, I have to admit it's actually a pretty nice ride. The tester I've got is way too expensive though, ringing the register at nearly $40,000. For the high $20,000s and low $30,000s, sure, this would be a nice buy.

The Honda CR-V has something to worry about. See what Consumer Reports' has to say about it in the clip below.

NOTE: While Consumer Reports claims the RAV4 is taut, that couldn't be further from the truth. Its suspension is much more refined over the last-gen product and is exceedingly comfortable. I am quite impressed with the leap it made, generation-to-generation.



Toyota's RAV4 comes standard with numerous advanced safety features and offers competitive fuel economy for the class. But its stiff ride, intrusive engine noise, and lackluster interior may distract from an otherwise well performing vehicle.

Nexus7 - 3/30/2019 10:41:06 PM

+1 Boost

I find the drivetrain very intriguing. I wonder if the electric side can be hacked to provide more power.

Although I'd wait for this drivetrain to show up in the Sienna to buy it.

Nexus7 - 3/30/2019 10:53:09 PM

+3 Boost

Hmmmm... I was thinking the RAV4 AWD system is the eAWD kind - where the rear is powered only by an electric motor - no mechanical driveshaft from the (mechanical) transmission to the rear diff. Dunno where I saw that, but it appears it is just a standard Toyota awd hybrid setup, still with a prop shaft to the rear. SoI don't think it is as intriguing any more.

The 2020 Jeep Renegade has the type of eAWD drivetrain I'm talking about.

MDarringer - 3/30/2019 11:29:04 PM

+1 Boost

If I had four fewer kids, absolutely. The RAV4 has always been the one to beat. You simply cannot buy a better crossover for the price. The new one is a big leap in the right direction and it is selling well. Ford designed the new Escape with 2010 in mind and they are going to feel the RAV4.

Runamukk - 3/31/2019 2:47:47 AM

+4 Boost

Booooooooooooo

skytop - 3/31/2019 8:45:26 AM

+2 Boost

Why Toyota design their headlights at such a weird inclined angle? Is the vehicle supposed to appear mad,angry, provoked and aggravated?

Dr550 - 3/31/2019 3:23:57 PM

+3 Boost

Bland and boring.

Truthy - 3/31/2019 9:41:23 PM

+1 Boost

It is good looking up close in the metal. It looks more substantial than the outgoing model.
The interior is too monochromatic, but I just saw it in all black. The door panel was all black. Could use some brightwork. It will do well.

mini22 - 4/1/2019 5:28:02 PM

+1 Boost

I actually like the rugged design exterior. But I really cannot see its advantage over a Mazda CX5 or a Honda CRV or Forester. I think it is competitive with a Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage. I guess if you are a died in the wool Toyota fan you will like this Rav 4. However it does not stand out enough for me to want to buy it. Given the choice and if I wanted to stay away from a turbo engine I would go for the Mazda, Subaru, or Hyundai over the Rav.

CarCrazedinCali - 4/1/2019 8:04:01 PM

+2 Boost

IMO the CRV is the better looking one in the segment

MDarringer - 4/1/2019 8:28:29 PM

0 Boost

I find them both busy as hell, but the Toyota is more masculine looking and the Honda much more fem/eunuch looking.