Toyota Rav4
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a family SUV that’s built to last and won’t break the bank at the petrol station? The Toyota Rav4 might be exactly what you need. This popular mid-size SUV has earned its reputation through decades of reliable service, combining practicality with efficiency. It’s the perfect choice for families who want space and versatility without compromising on running costs or dependability.

From the outside, the latest Rav4 has a bold, confident stance that sets it apart from rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage. The boxy, rugged design gives it serious road presence while the spacious interior offers genuine family-friendly practicality. Standard hybrid technology across the range means impressive fuel economy, while the optional plug-in hybrid variant takes efficiency to another level with electric-only driving capability.

What makes the Rav4 special is its blend of reliability and modern technology. Toyota’s reputation for building cars that last is legendary, and the Rav4 continues this tradition. The hybrid system is proven and efficient, the interior is well-equipped with user-friendly technology, and the driving experience is smooth and refined. While it may not be the cheapest SUV to buy, the combination of low running costs, strong resale values, and Toyota’s reliability record makes it a smart long-term investment for any family.

What's the Toyota Rav4 Like to Drive?

The Toyota Rav4 is all about efficient, smooth performance rather than outright speed. The standard hybrid system combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with electric motors to produce around 218 horsepower. This setup delivers steady acceleration with a 0-60mph time of just under 8 seconds, which feels perfectly adequate for family driving. The plug-in hybrid version ups the power to 302 horsepower and drops the 0-60mph time to around 6 seconds, making it surprisingly quick when needed.

Where the Rav4 really excels is in its refined driving manners. The family SUV feels stable and composed on the road, with light steering that makes parking easy and confident handling on country roads. The hybrid system operates seamlessly, switching between petrol and electric power without you noticing. The ride quality is comfortable, soaking up bumps and potholes well while remaining controlled through corners. It’s a relaxing car to drive that inspires confidence whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising on the motorway.

How Comfortable Is the Toyota Rav4?

Step inside the Rav4 and you’re greeted by a spacious, well-designed cabin that puts practicality first. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with a large touchscreen infotainment system taking centre stage. Material quality is good throughout, with hard-wearing plastics that feel built to last and soft-touch surfaces where it matters. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with plenty of adjustment to help you find the perfect driving position.

Space is a real strength of the Rav4. Front seat passengers get generous head and legroom, while the rear seats can easily accommodate adults on longer journeys. The cabin feels airy thanks to large windows and an optional panoramic sunroof. Standard equipment is comprehensive, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and a suite of safety features. Higher trim levels add premium touches like heated leather seats and a premium sound system. Road noise is well-controlled, making the Rav4 a quiet and comfortable place to spend time.

The Toyota Rav4 is an outstanding choice for families who prioritise reliability, efficiency, and long-term value. It successfully combines Toyota’s famous build quality with modern hybrid technology and genuine family practicality. The interior is spacious and well-equipped, the driving experience is refined and confidence-inspiring, and the fuel economy is genuinely impressive.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Toyota Rav4?

This is where the Rav4 really shines. The standard hybrid system delivers impressive real-world fuel economy of around 50mpg, significantly better than most petrol-only rivals. The plug-in hybrid takes this further, offering up to 62 miles of electric-only driving and combined fuel economy figures of over 280mpg when used correctly. This makes it particularly attractive for company car drivers thanks to low benefit-in-kind tax rates.

Insurance costs are reasonable for a car of this size and capability, falling into moderate groups. The initial purchase price is higher than some competitors, but Toyota’s legendary reliability means lower maintenance costs over time. Strong resale values also help protect your investment. car finance options are widely available, making the higher list price more manageable through monthly payments. When you factor in the excellent fuel economy, low servicing costs, and strong residual values, the Rav4 represents excellent value for money over the long term.

Toyota Rav4 Practicality & Boot Space

The Rav4 is genuinely practical for family life. The 580-litre boot is a good size, easily handling the weekly shop or holiday luggage for four people. The rear seats fold flat to create a huge loading area when you need to carry larger items. Around the cabin, you’ll find plenty of storage spaces for phones, drinks, and other family essentials. The high driving position gives excellent visibility, making it easy to judge distances when parking or navigating tight spaces.

What sets the Rav4 apart from some competitors is its standard all-wheel drive system. This gives added confidence in poor weather conditions and makes it capable of light off-road adventures. For families who enjoy outdoor activities or live in rural areas, this extra capability is reassuring. Compared to other used Toyota cars, the Rav4 offers one of the best combinations of interior space and versatility. The only minor limitation is that the sloping roofline can restrict headroom for very tall rear passengers, but this is a small compromise for most families.

The Toyota Rav4 stands out in the competitive family SUV market by offering unmatched reliability combined with impressive fuel efficiency. It packages Toyota’s renowned hybrid technology, generous interior space, and practical design into a vehicle that’s built for real-world family use. While it may not be the cheapest SUV to buy initially, its combination of low running costs and proven dependability makes it excellent value over time.

You choose the Rav4 because you want a family SUV that won’t let you down. Its efficient hybrid system, spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability make it ideal for busy families. Whether you’re tackling the school run or planning a weekend adventure, the Rav4 delivers the space, capability, and economy you need. If you’re looking for a family SUV with a proven track record, the Toyota Rav4 should be at the top of your list, especially when considering cars under £10,000 for older models.