2024 Toyota RAV4 Review: Buying Guide

The Toyota RAV4 SUV is one of the most popular new cars in New Zealand. In fact it is the best selling passenger vehicle here, thanks to its mix of versatility, economy and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.  

When the current model was first introduced in 2019, it was available with a choice of 2.5- and 2.0-litre conventional engines alongside a new hybrid powertrain. However, Toyota only offers the hybrid now.

While Toyota has offered hybrids for more than a decade now, many people think you need to charge them. But there’s no need here, you just operate the RAV4 as you would a conventional vehicle.

The engine part of the RAV4 hybrid equation is a lean burning/fuel efficient 2.5-litre four which is boosted by a pair of electric motors. There is one motor up front and another on the rear, which gives the RAV4 eAWD, in that there is no mechanical connection between the axles. 

Toyota quotes an overall output of 163kW (no combined torque figure however) and the hybrid system works out what does which and when. This largely depends on how hard you press the gas pedal. When floored, all available system power is delivered. Drive with more restraint, and the hybrid will attempt to mooch about using its electric power but will add engine assistance to supplement acceleration whenever it’s required. The system constantly switches the engine on and off as needed, everything done seamlessly. The transmission they label an e-CVT. This you’ll find responsive when need be and is generally smooth and easygoing. 

As to charging, you don’t. There is actually a third electrical motor for the RAV4, the motor-generator, which is responsible for keeping the battery topped up using a mix of brake regeneration and power from the engine. The thrift of the RAV4 is rated at 5.3L/100km (we saw 6.2L/100km on test, a mix of highway and urban driving). 

The hybrid battery is positioned under the rear seat so there is no impact on load space and there is the usual split folding of the seat backs to expand load carrying. The rear bench fits three kids abreast, with leg room suitable for tall adults and the usual Isofix and anchor points for infants. This hybrid can also tow, not much mind you at 1500kg braked. 

All RAV4s gain Toyota’s ‘Safety Sense’ features, including active cruise (operational at all-speeds), AEB with pedestrian detection and daylight cyclist detection (throws only the occasional false warning) road sign assist, lane tracing assist (the least desirable function but easily defeated) and automatic high beams. Along with seven airbags, it has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, assessed in 2019. 

The GX has cloth trim, an eight-inch touchscreen audio display, dual zone air conditioning and 17-inch alloys. It’s $48,790, which is the Toyota Driveaway Price. This includes all on-road costs such as GST, Tyre Stewardship Fee, pre-delivery costs, WOF/COF, registration, a tank of fuel and floormats. The price is non-negotiable however. 

The $51,990 GXL gains 18-inch alloys, a smart key, upgraded 10.5-inch touchscreen audio, sat nav, dual zone air con, privacy glass and a Qi charge pad. 

The XSE is $55,990 and adds black gloss exterior accents. Inside are synthetic leather seats which are heated up front and power adjusted on the driver’s side. It gains a 12.3-inch driver display and a powered tailgate.