Toyota RAV4 (XA30W) Test Drive Report

ReportDecember 16, 2021

The new RAV4 is even more "Westernized

The first generation RAV4 was born in 1994. With a wheelbase of only 2,200mm, the first generation RAV4 was available only as a 3-door body with "Choro-Q" style proportions. The first generation model was developed to replace the compact coupes such as the Levin and the Toreno, which were losing popularity due to the so-called "XC4WD" boom, and was targeted at young Japanese people.

However, when the RAV4 was later added to the lineup with a 5-door body and was also released in the US and European markets, its sales gradually shifted in that direction. This is one of the reasons why the RAV4's body size gets bigger with each model change.

In the latest third generation model, the three-door model was finally discontinued. The overall width has also increased to over 1.8 meters, further "westernizing" the car. Incidentally, starting with this model, a long version with third row seats and a 3.5L V6 engine will be available for the US market.

The interior was literally redesigned.

Looking at the body size and engine displacement of the new RAV4, one could almost say that the name is the only thing that is the same as the original model.

While the exterior of the RAV4 retains the look of its predecessors, the interior is literally completely new. The "two-blade" style dashboard that spans the entire width of the left and right doors is quite unique. The hairline finish on the center panel, door handles, and other "shiny" parts is said to have been "technically quite difficult" and helps to create a new personality. The newly developed rear suspension with the dampers positioned diagonally makes the luggage space more spacious, which is another feature. The rear seats can be rearranged by remote control from the tailgate side, which is a popular item these days.

Driving performance is more advanced than expected

The new RAV4's driving performance was even better than we had imagined, thanks to a new power pack that combines the RAV4's largest ever 2.4-liter engine with a CVT. A completely newly developed new generation platform. The synergistic effect of the newly developed suspension was evident in this vehicle. When you step on the accelerator pedal from the idle state, which is notably quiet, the power at the start is quite strong. The engine speed is kept at a very low level during normal acceleration, so the car is quiet in general, even when cruising.

Another beauty of this car is its excellent steering feel regardless of the driving situation. The EPS (Electric Power Steering) provides a linear response to even the slightest operation, while blocking kickback and providing sufficient contact with the road.

4WD is recommended

To be frank, the packaging and character of the car itself may not necessarily be suitable for the Japanese market due to the need to focus on the European and American markets, but the driving potential of the RAV4 is unmistakable. Its dynamic performance has always been at a satisfactory level, and its footwork, even by "sedan standards," is at a level that cannot be underestimated, in my conclusion. The FWD model was prepared in order to achieve the surprising price of less than 2 million yen (?). However, the FWD model is not necessarily worth recommending. The RAV4's reputation would be ruined if it got stuck on a snowy road or screamed for wheel spin when starting up a hill.

The "Sport" grade, with its overfendered body and 18-inch shoes, has a slightly stronger push-up feeling depending on the road surface, so the 17-inch version has the edge in terms of driving quality. In other words, the "G" and "X" grades of the 4WD model are recommended.

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