Though it is not a quick vehicle, it does feel light, responsive, and maneuverable.Suspension tuning is relatively tight and supplies excellent body motion control, but this also translates into a ride quality that can be stiff and somewhat choppy depending on the road surface. The front passenger's seat is identical, but lacks the height adjuster.One of the larger models in its class, the RAV4 offers a roomy rear seat with plenty of space for both babies riding in reverse-facing child seats and for lanky teenagers needing a little room to sprawl out. Our most recent review of the 2017 Toyota RAV4 resulted in a score of 7 out of 10 for that particular example. With these features, the RAV4 qualifies as a "Top Safety Pick+" according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Even then, I never came close enough to have the vehicle engage its brakes autonomously. It's nearly half a metre longer than the first five-door model in the late 90s. The 2016 Toyota RAV4 SE offers a more dynamic drive character in this normally sterile class. It works well, though crisp autumn equinox weather didn't tax it either way. Ash, Nutmeg, and Cinnamon interior colors are rendered in a pleasing two-tone appearance, while black is relentlessly dark save for some silver plastic trim. As the athlete in the RAV4 family, the SE gets a sport-tuned suspension; unique 18-inch wheels and a specific styling treatments to give it a little extra visual edge. If that sounds like a description of an appliance, it is. Of the different versions of the RAV4, the XLE trim level might be popular, but it isn't particularly special. Instead, the SE's performance changes center on the suspension, which improves the RAV4's handling reflexes, making the small crossover a bit more fun to toss around. I was well surprised when the RAV4 scampered up a steep hill at Hollister Hills off-road park in California, behaving more like a 4Runner than a RAV4. Regardless of which model you choose, you may be surprised at what the RAV4 can handle when the pavement turns to dirt. We delete comments that violate our policy, which we encourage you to read. Base LE models begin at $24,910, while the new range-topping Platinum grade starts at $34,750. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Like its predecessors, the 2017 RAV4 is a small, car-based SUV with five seats standard (there’s no third row offered in this generation) and either front- or all-wheel drive. Toyota's RAV4 compact SUV soft roader has been around so long it's easy to forget quite how far it's come. Edmunds' expert review of the Used 2017 Toyota RAV4 provides the latest look at trim-level features and specs, performance, safety, and comfort. A redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson is coming soon, replacing a compact SUV that led its segment in quality according to the J.D. The SE's styling changes are noticeable and attractive, the model has some small but meaningful performance hardware differences, and it also has a larger standard features list that includes things like heated outside mirrors, blind-spot monitoring and push-button starter to help justify the $3,000 premium the SE carries over the XLE trim. Toyota Rav4 by Pritesh from Altamonte spring on Wed Mar 29 2017 Very smooth to handle and comfortable in all aspects.. powerful and good handling. The RAV4 also earns a 5-star (out of 5) overall crash-test rating from the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).A lane-departure warning system with lane-keeping assist is also a part of the Toyota Safety Sense package, as well as adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam headlights. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion. Really enjoy owning this car. Perhaps a reflection of Toyota's addition of a RAV4 Hybrid in 2016, 62% agree that they are willing to pay more for a vehicle that is environmentally friendly (vs. 56%).Notable differences exist between RAV4 buyers and Compact SUV buyers when it comes to quality, reliability, fuel economy, and maintenance costs, with buyers of the RAV4 more strongly agreeing that these factors are primary influences in their decision-making process. View gallery Last updated: 22nd April 2016. The Bottom Line Those who need the practicality of a compact crossover but don't want a drab-looking or drab-driving vehicle should put the RAV4 SE on their "must drive" list. The RAV4's Infotainment system doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capabilities. Inside a half-mile of driving Toyota's RAV4 SE over Michigan's crumbling roads, I make a mental note of its firmer bump stiffness. Stylistically, a 2016 freshening injected some extra personality, especially regarding the almost featureless rear end. See the changes for the 2017 model year above. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.SM. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard in all 2017 RAV4 trim levels except for the base LE version. Entune is also Siri-compatible, but does not offer smartphone-projection technology supporting Apple and Android devices.Additionally, Toyota fails to offer its Safety Connect subscription services for the RAV4, an odd decision given this SUV's popularity with younger drivers and families. Excellent ride, gets a little better than EPA mileage (32 on Hwy, 34 local driving; since I live in mts local mileage is great). Find 2017 Toyota RAV4 used cars for sale on Auto Trader, today. It works well, though crisp autumn equinox weather didn't tax it either way. In the sections that follow, our expert provides his own assessment of how the 2017 RAV4 performs in each of the 10 categories that comprise the J.D. Its five-star Euro NCAP score should also be … It’s competent, efficient, spacious and better looking than before, but … Review Toyota RAV4 SUV (2015 - ) review. On the other hand, when you must use the display, such as when choosing a radio station pre-set, the small buttons require accuracy, which can be fleeting in the RAV4 with its taut suspension.Connect your smartphone to Entune and the system supports a connected navigation app that uses your data plan to supply a route and guidance. Offered separately, additional safety and visibility systems include an optional blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear park-assist sensors, and a 360-degree surround-view monitor. If front-wheel drive is all you need, then efficiency climbs to 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. A precollision system with pedestrian detection uses radar and a camera to monitor for possible impacts, giving an audible warning if it senses a potential collision and automatically braking if you don't react in time. The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is the latest in a long line of compact crossover SUVs to grace the automaker's showrooms. 08/28/2020. Power 2016 U.S. Responsive handling, powerful acceleration, and owning a vehicle that stands out from the crowd are less important to RAV4 owners, compared with segment average.Buyers say their favorite things about the RAV4 are (in descending order) the exterior styling, driving dynamics, safety, seats, and interior design. Thanks to a standard reversing camera, large side mirrors, and relatively thin windshield pillars, it's easy to see out of and to maneuver a RAV4.For 2017, Toyota installs standard technologies designed to help prevent accidents, too. Of course, I'd still like a bit more power in any model that claims to be sportiest example in its lineup, but the SE's dynamic improvements do provide a more entertaining driving experience, and this trim looks sharper, too. It's easy to see why: they're affordable, efficient, practical modes of transportation that, when equipped with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), are ready for any kind of weather. More aggressive looks thanks to the exclusive SE styling touches make the RAV4 visually appealing. A few years back, Toyota added an SE trim to its Camry sedan, and it's proven to be quite popular. The Toyota RAV4 finished fourth out of the 75 cars ranked in our 2017 Driver Power owner satisfaction survey of cars currently on sale in the UK. Even with the SE's poorer ride quality over crummy Michigan roads, its tradeoffs will likely be worth it for a pretty sizable chunk of buyers, just like they're worth it to me. In short, the RAV4 XLE is the workhorse of the lineup.As such, it turns in a solid performance. The 2020 Toyota Highlander gets a new platform... 2020 Hyundai Sonata brings arresting style... Standard Toyota Safety Sense P safety package on all grades adding a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Share on Facebook on Twitter. The seat itself is supportive, equipped with a height adjuster, wrapped in durable fabric, and satisfying on longer trips. Like the majority of sport versions of mainstream vehicles, it doesn't get upgrades to the drivetrain, meaning the SE works with the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque as other non-hybrid RAV4s. Lane departure alert notifies drivers when they are veering outside of the lines, and steering assist inputs small corrections to keep the RAV4 within its lane. I won't be at all surprised if the same thing happens with the RAV4. The navigation system is intuitive to use, Bluetooth phone pairing is easily accomplished and the premium JBL audio system sounds crisp. Clearly, Toyota's RAV4 range has grown to include flavors for all types of buyers. © 2021 J.D. Power’s written permission. Does it make sense as a used buy? In our drives, a rattle from the left B-pillar would annoyingly come and go. In 2016, an improved version of the fourth generation model went on sale and was smarter and better finished, plus it featured more competitive diesel power and crucially, the option of a hybrid engine for the first time. Car fits a lot in the trunk, enough passengers for my lifestyle, and has not had many issues at all. It is just as capable at seating five passengers as it is hauling loads of gear. It's an increasingly common feature that I'm beginning to like a lot. Looking over a few spec sheets shows that the Toyota is tops in the class when it comes to the cargo department, bettering the Jeep Cherokee (54.9 cubic feet), Mazda CX-5 (64.8 cubic feet), Escape (68 cubic feet), Rogue (70 cubic feet) and CR-V (70.9 cubic feet). The biggest downside to SE is the aforementioned harsher ride quality, a byproduct of its stiffer springs and shock absorbers. Among the numerous models on sale today, the RAV4 remains one of the most compelling choices, delivering an appealing mix of safety, dependability, roominess, and fuel economy.For this review, our expert evaluated a 2017 RAV4 XLE with AWD, a navigation system, and carpeted floor mats. The Bad The SE's sport suspension provides a firmer ride quality that may turn off some customers. Power, Christian Wardlaw, Independent Expert | Nov 03, 2016. It lacks the pizzazz of the sporty SE version; it lacks the luxuries of the upscale Limited and Platinum trim levels; and it lacks the power and efficiency of the RAV4 Hybrid. Unless they are tall, drivers will be comfortable. Toyota's Entune multimedia bundle is also here, letting you connect your smartphone to run features such as Bing destination search and Pandora through the dashboard, but sadly, the system isn't compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Included in the standard Toyota Safety Sense package, a forward-collision warning system is coupled with pedestrian-detection technology and an automatic emergency braking system to help prevent accidents. An optional $3,030 advanced technology package adds a variety of infotainment and safety technology to the RAV4 SE. Carsguide Family reviewer Nedahl Stelio had this to say at the time: If you’re looking for a super easy, basic car to drive around that is good value for money and ticks boxes like maximum safety, great boot space and reliability, then this will be music to your ears: you’ve found your match. Power research data show that 54% of RAV4 buyers are women (compared with 51% for the segment), with a median age of 59 (vs. 56 segment average) and a median household income of $79,833 (vs. $89,505).RAV4 buyers more often identify themselves as practical buyers (39% vs. 30% segment average), and, not surprisingly, 62% disagree that they prefer to buy a vehicle from a domestic company (vs. 38%). Utilitarian in terms of materials and design, the RAV4's interior looks industrial, feels durable, and supplies plenty of practicality. Automotive historians might rightly point to the AMC Eagle as the original crossover SUV, but it was Toyota that made the concept stick, with an assist from Subaru, which debuted the lifted Outback wagon that same year.In the 20 years that have elapsed, more Americans now purchase small crossover SUVs than any other type of vehicle. Fold the 60/40 split-folding rear seat down to expand the space to 73.4 cu. The RAV4 never feels underpowered. No portion of these reviews may be reproduced, distributed, publicly displayed, or used for a derivative work without J.D. Have it for almost 4 years and 50,000 miles. © 2021 CNET, A RED VENTURES COMPANY. Designed and engineered for maximum off-roading capability, the 2021 Ford Bronco is a direct competitor to the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner. RAV 4 delivers. The SE's sport suspension provides a firmer ride quality that may turn off some customers. However, it's not whisper-quiet inside. Notice that list of SE changes doesn't include a power increase. Turn-in response is fairly quick, and there's some weight tuned into the wheel. Dynamically, the RAV4 is best described as sprightly. But that's why people buy small crossover SUVs in the first place.This vehicle was rented from Alamo and test driven in Massachusetts. Reviews for Toyota RAV4 (2013 – 2019)'s top 3 rivals Kia Sportage One of the best crossovers on the market, well-equipped, seven-year warranty, practical and spacious. 2017 Toyota RAV4 GXL review: Long-term report two - comfort and the urban grind … News 12th Sep 2016 2017 Toyota RAV4 pricing and specs: More equipment and safety for updated SUV … The SE looks particularly sharp with the Electric Storm Blue paint seen here, even if it stands out a little more than I generally prefer. If you can't find a place to put something inside of a RAV4, you're not trying. The 2017 RAV4 is a good option among used compact SUVs. The interior features a clean design, with nice touches including numerous wrapped surfaces with contrasting orange stitching. We compared both the new 2017 Mazda CX-5 and the RAV4 and while both are excellent compact SUVs, my wife preferred the lower dashboard and simpler console of the RAV4, … In place of a standard 6.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, there's a responsive 7-inch unit. The Toyota RAV4 is a medium-sized family SUV that had the distinction of being the only car of its type that came exclusively with a hybrid engine as the only method of propulsion when it was launched – Toyota calls it a self-charging hybrid because you don't need to plug it in. The steering is tuned for a natural feel, and while it feels a little bit heavy at low speeds, the driver acclimates in no time at all. Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. The Toyota RAV4 definitely possesses visual character, and owners like what they see, claiming that this compact crossover SUV's exterior styling is their favorite thing about it. Lucky for those people, Toyota's midcycle RAV4 update includes a new hybrid version that caters to those wants, and there's always the model's more traditional LE and XLE models. The Good The 2016 Toyota RAV4 SE offers a more dynamic drive character in this normally sterile class. 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