Toyota RAV4 2019 review

The Toyota RAV4 2019 model is the most sophisticated and thoughtful version of the mid-size SUV yet. It offers a huge 11-variant line-up, with six of those models being petrol-electric hybrids. And despite being almost the same size as its predecessor, the new version is considerably more roomy, notably more economical, and arguably more stylish. There's a lot to like here.

CarsGuide - Go beyond the test drive

[JacksyJeb]

Finally! I've been waiting for an Aussie review. You did a great job Matt, enjoyed it :)

[ahmren]

Why isn’t the Hybrid the top grade especially when it’s the most powerful engine ? Also I hate when manufacturers strip out features for certain markets our Cruiser Hybrid is missing,

- Windscreen deicer
- Heated steering wheel
- Ventilated seats
- Heated second row outboard seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Adaptive LED headlights
- Puddle lights
- Digital rearview mirror
- Foot activated tailgate

NZ have a full size spare standard on all hybrids but our higher models don’t even have this as an option.

[noelgibson]

I can see this being Australias second best selling vehicle one day (behind Hilux) as buyers turn away from Corolla /Mazda are approaching the size of the very cars Aussies walked away from years ago.
I can see this model doing very well.

[amramweismann]

One of the few reviews that reflects my opinion of the RAV4 hybrid Toyota eCVT is nothing like your usual CVT and i agree that the engine noise when it comes in is agreeable
I cant wait the end of the moth when i receive mine.

[elliex]

I test drove it. Lovely car, lovely ride, and great fuel consumption. I however think road/wind noise is high on the highway. It is high on Swedish roads anyway.

[jimprovan]

Matt, you talk about the rear leg room with the front seat set in your position, but how tall are you? Are you taller than Tyrion Lannister, it is helpful to know?

[hellouser]

6 speed manual? Sounds like fun except engine is underpowered, it needs 2.5l supercharged petrol with manual gear box

[danielkennett]

Hyundai Tucson FTW. 10 years of map updates and roadside assistance, lifetime capped servicing, 15, 000km servicing intervals and a full size spare across the range :-)

[noelgibson]

Certainly looks better inside. The frontal treatment is stronger and more in line with what an SUV should be. Old one was too soft. Rest of vehicle - pretty good from most angles.
Don't like the transmission auto or a six speed manual?? Having to change gears five times is pushing it a little i think, particularly in towns or cities where most of us live. I still think diesel should be is an SUV!

[eddyhosing]

I just don’t get it why many reviews say slow auto boot .. do u want it to open fast and hit your face or close fast to snap your fingers?

[berdugosocials]

How’s the body roll? And how it handles high-speed cornering?

[polys]

Great review. One question though. Did Toyota confirm to you that Apple Carplay and Android Auto will be coming by the end of the year as a free upgrade? I do not live in Australia but I have bought the corresponding Cruiser (expecting it beginning of June) and the only disappointing thing is the lack of smartphone connectivity.

[NZsarge]

Does the 2.5 litre Edge come with the pox CVT or a conventional auto? And no, I’m not wrong, CVT’s SUCK!

[rickysharp]

That touchscreen looks so outdated. Would love to see a Forester vs RAV4 review.. I believe Forester is the best suv in the class at the moment.

[Iann]

Great review and Aussie, with metric references (so over American centric imperial). Ordered a Cruiser Hybrid in Jan 2020 and told maybe August! Ended up with an ex demo from WA ( I’m in NSW), can’t go past the fuel range / economy, boot space, quality and Toyota service. Great car and worth a test drive..

[balekuzmanovski]

looking to either buy the Forester 2.5i S or the RAV4 Cruiser hybrid, the only concern is the passenger head space... any thoughts?

[py]

Bad idea to have USB ports in rear bottom someone may kicked them and damage these ports, I have seen almost cars like that, why don't they place the USB ports on each side of rear seats?

[UFONews]

What’s the point of quoting vehicle prices excluding drive away costs, are we ever going to buy a car without them, answer no, so give us the full drive away price, not 4 or 5 k over.

[BH-eemr]

I drive 650 K a week would the hybrid be the Best Buy.?

[vinr]

My question is the re-sell value of a hybrid vehicle as time goes from one owner to another compare to competitor like CX-5 petrol. Will it has the same demand as petrol engine SUV when trading to the next owner due to the battery lifetime