2023 Toyota RAV4
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 remains an important vehicle for the automaker, as it’s traditionally its top seller overall, as well as the best-selling SUV in Canada.
This year there’s a new multimedia system with wireless connectivity, larger infotainment and instrument cluster screens, and upgraded driver-assist and safety systems. All RAV4 trims now also feature standard all-wheel drive (AWD), with the base LE no longer available in a front-wheel drive configuration.
It’s available with both plug-in and conventional hybrid powertrains, but the one tested here is the gasoline-only version. The lineup starts at $34,520 - including a non-negotiable delivery fee of $1,930 - but this top-end Limited checks in at $46,180 before taxes.
The RAV4’s looks are best described as functional rather than handsome, with its angular face and double grille. At the rear, the long and wide hatch means a low and wide opening, so while the RAV4 doesn’t quite match some of its competitors for cargo volume, it’s easy to put your items inside.
The cabin looks similarly functional, with the climate and drive mode controls contained within the console and centre stack and surrounded by a metallic bezel. Lower trims have fabric upholstery, while upper levels have simulated leather that’s good-looking and easy to clean.
In crash testing, the RAV4 earns the highest five-star rating from the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also earns a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It falls short of the highest Top Safety Pick+ designation due to the IIHS modifying its front- and side tests to better simulate being struck by a larger SUV. The RAV4 earns “Acceptable” ratings in these, one below the top “Good” score.
All trims come with a number of driver-assist and safety features, including adaptive cruise control, emergency front braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and the rearview camera that’s mandatory on all new vehicles. For 2023, the forward collision warning system has been updated with pedestrian detection in low-light situations, emergency steering assist, and intersection assistance; it detects and, if necessary, brakes for oncoming vehicles when you’re turning left, or for pedestrians at intersections in either direction. The Limited trim exclusively adds 360-degree cameras and emergency rear braking.
All trim levels receive a larger infotainment screen. Lower trims go from a seven-inch to an eight-inch display, while the Limited swaps its previous nine-inch tablet for a 10.5-inch screen. Regardless of size, all get a new multimedia system with subscription services, including up to a three-year trial for remote connectivity, and a 10-year trial for service and safety connection. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay needed a cable in last year’s RAV4, but they’re now wireless in all trims.
In addition to the standard safety assist features, the base trim includes heated front seats, all-weather floor mats, windshield de-icer, variable intermittent wipers, and LED headlights. Moving up the trim levels adds such items as a power sunroof, roof rails, a heated steering wheel, cargo privacy cover, cargo net, rain-sensing wipers, and a wireless charger. My top Limited tester exclusively included a premium audio system, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, eight-way power driver and passenger seats with driver’s side memory, and a digital rearview mirror.
Read More www.autotrader.ca/editorial/20230413/2023-toyota-rav4-review/