2022 Toyota RAV4 review: Does the facelifted SUV reset the benchmark? Petrol-electric hybrid tested!

If there's a more anticipated update in 2022, we sure aren't aware of it. That's because this - the updated, facelifted 2022 Toyota RAV4 - has taken what was already considered by the team here at CarsGuide as the benchmark for the midsize SUV segment, and set the high point even higher again.

The changes aren't huge - Matt Campbell runs you through them in this video - but there are some vital new inclusions, such as the mid-spec XSE hybrid-only model, which adds everything you'd want from the Cruiser or Edge model, but packs it in just above the GXL.

The RAV4 still has three powertrains to choose from - a 2.0L petrol, 2.5L hybrid (with 2WD or AWD) and a 2.5L petrol. But even in the top-spec Edge, which was previously only sold with the 2.5L petrol, there's now a hybrid option.

The story here is clear - it's hybrid or nothing, really. But there's a whole lot more to it, including fuel consumption and electric driving range, pricign and specs, safety tech and ownership considerations.

00:00 Intro
01:06 Pricing and features
02:51 Design
03:49 Practicality
09:55 Under the bonnet
11:10 Driving
15:28 Efficiency
16:17 Safety
17:08 Ownership
18:03 Verdict

CarsGuide - Go beyond the test drive

[DFD]

The only 2022 GXL review on Youtube! Thank you!

[bobbypaluga]

Excellent recap, I just bought a US RAV4 XLE Premium, your analysis helped a lot. From Arizona a big thanks!

[solitalightfoot]

We just upgraded our 13 yr old Civic to a GX AWD Hybrid. Compromised on extras in higher models to get AWD for increased towing capacity and stay on budget. Fully aware of extras we gave up. Don't miss what you never had. In our eyes, nothing could beat the Hybrid system.

[bbqridge]

One of the best reviews on YouTube, and I have watched nearly all of them. One interesting thing I learned from a US/Canadian site is that the Hybrids get better fuel consumption in the city because people cruise up to lights, slow down and cruise in busy traffic, and also the regenerative braking system kicks in more.

[martinmichaells]

Good review. I have a GXL AWD 2021 and love driving it. Going to upgrade soon to GXL AWD Hybrid. Long wait though.

[moutushidas]

Real nice review channel especially the family reviews

[chrisgordon]

We have had hybrid cruiser for a few weeks and absolutely love it.

[Tmek]

I own 202 rav4 limited hybrid with AWDi (so the highest model), and it's just a joy to drive.

[Vonraptor]

Getting a GX AWD hybrid tomorrow - excited!

[Mrmanbirsandhu]

I have a 2019 XSE hybrid. Looks the same as here. Still love it!

[btpp]

One of the best mid size SUV’s on the market . GXL / XSE Is my choice 👍🏻👍🏻

[VelvetLogan]

Great review! I ordered the GXL 2WD in atomic rush last September, waiting patiently. Will be enough for my suburban driving and family. I don't mind the 8 inch infotainment. I am just after endurance, quality and reliability.

[JoJo-ynrf]

Well presented with lists on the beginning

[yasserafiq]

Thanks for such a thorough review. Great car!! Wish it had the gearbox of the CX-5. I've driven the RAV4 and the Highlander Hybrid and just don't like the sound of the CVT.

[porksandbean]

got the SE hybrid and the I feel in control better than my previous 2017 LE Gas.

[rjwhite]

Soon to take delivery of GXL AWD hybrid .April.. ordered in sept was told up to 12 months, well its here earlier than expected in the same red .Be our 5TH Toyota hanging onto my 2003 Camry V6 Manual km).and selling our 2017 Camry to a family member

[edsemple]

Love my XLE hybrid model here in the US. You get a better warranty, but all models get all the safety features here.

[rahulgupta]

One of the best is Rav4 cruiser awd hybrid graphite colour. Also if black cladding will come with gloss black that would be awesome.

[bekindtoyourmother]

Might I suggest when doing reviews you consider the oldies ? We go for Rav's and Foresters etc for the height for those of us with dodgy hips and knees. Also ease of loading wheelie walkers and collapsible wheelchairs. Maybe you could even demo action ? There's a sizeable number of gen Xers out here rolling in to our autumn years but still quite able to get about.

[miker]

Ordered a XSE here in San Diego California on the 1st of February an d was told it should be here by April 1st. Glad we got order in now when gas is approaching $7 a gallon...highest in the U.S. here in San Diego. And now there talking about slowing production.