2019 Toyota RAV4 vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 had a strong and striking appearance, inspired by the Toyota Tacoma pickup. The bold design was characterized by its chunky bodywork and sharp edges, delivering a sense of strength and modernity. The side-profile styling and taillights bore a resemblance to the luxury vehicles of the Lexus brand. Notably, a character line broke up the rear C-pillar, a feature seen in many new vehicles, though it didn't necessarily enhance the aesthetics. Approximately half of the 2019 RAV4's color options matched the body to the roof, while seven options featured a contrasting-color roof in either gray or black, depending on the variant. This design choice was practical for two-tone options but appeared cluttered in monotone schemes.

The interior of the 2019 RAV4 struck a balance between simplicity and elegance. A floating touchscreen centralized many functions, while other controls were housed in a pod extending from the dash to the cupholders. The base LE trim included features like 17-inch steel wheels, power side mirrors, and privacy-tinted windows. CarGurus recommended the XLE trim, which added alloy wheels, fog lights, and dual-zone climate control. The XLE Premium elevated the luxury with 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, and SofTex leatherette seats. The Adventure trim offered a rugged aesthetic with all-wheel drive and unique interior accents. The Limited trim aimed for an upscale feel, featuring chrome-finish wheels, ambient interior lighting, and optional packages for additional luxury features.

In comparison, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 retained much of the visual assertiveness introduced in the previous year's redesign. The Adventure trim continued to offer enhanced off-road capabilities, featuring a robust torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, improved ground clearance, and multiple terrain-specific driving modes. The introduction of the TRD Off-Road trim in 2020 elevated the rugged appeal further with matte-black 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and a specialized TRD suspension. Externally, it shared similarities with the Adventure trim but was distinguishable by exclusive badges and a Lunar Rock gray paint option paired with a white roof. Inside, the TRD Off-Road proudly displayed TRD logos, rubberized surfaces, and durable rubber floor mats, contrasting with the occasional use of inexpensive plastic materials.

The 2019 RAV4 came equipped across all trims with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive being an available option. The AWD system had two variants: a base offering across most trims and a more advanced torque-vectoring setup in the Adventure and Limited trims. The base AWD included modes for different terrains, enhancing the RAV4's off-road capability. The torque-vectoring AWD further improved performance by distributing power to the wheels needing it most in real-time, promising better off-road capability.

The 2.5-liter engine provided decent acceleration on highways but exhibited sluggishness and noise in stop-and-go traffic due to its lack of low-end power. Driving dynamics were somewhat compromised by twitchy steering and notable body roll, contrary to the competitive handling seen in rivals like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. However, the RAV4's fuel efficiency remained a strong point, with the AWD model achieving a commendable 29.3 mpg in combined driving, while the torque-vectoring AWD managed slightly lower figures at 28 mpg combined.

The 2020 RAV4 continued with the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission combination, maintaining its 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. For enthusiasts seeking better fuel efficiency and electrified performance, the RAV4 Hybrid offered an attractive alternative with 219 horsepower and an impressive 40 mpg combined. However, the TRD Off-Road trim, though equipped with all-terrain tires and a TRD suspension, was only available with the standard non-hybrid powertrain.

The TRD Off-Road trim's torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and downhill assist control enhanced performance on challenging trails and urban environments alike. Real-world testing revealed a fuel economy average of 23.4 mpg, falling short of the EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined but highlighted the vehicle's capability across varied environments. The infotainment system's voice-recognition technology and other trim-specific features like the JBL premium sound system and 360-degree surround-view camera system complemented the overall driving experience.

The 2019 and 2020 RAV4 shared similar interior layouts, focusing on a practical and clean design with ample cargo space and comfortable seating. The 2019 model had an organized center stack with easily accessible climate controls, a sizeable storage tray, drive-mode controls, and a short, stocky shifter. Storage solutions included a deep center console bin and a hidden storage tray on the passenger side.

Cargo space in the 2019 RAV4 offered 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and expanded to 69.8 cubic feet when the seats were folded—slightly less than some rivals but still ample for most needs. Interior practicality also extended to numerous small item storage options and a rear armrest with cupholders in the test model.

The 2020 RAV4 maintained the same ergonomic design, providing an easy-to-access seating position and a sporty 8-way adjustable driver's seat. SofTex upholstery, though prone to trapping sweat, was balanced by features like heated and ventilated front seats in the Weather Package. The rear seat offered generous legroom, suitable for adults and children, with additional amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports enhancing passenger comfort.

Interior storage remained plentiful with a full-width dashboard shelf and ample cargo space mirroring the previous year's model—37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and 69.8 cubic feet when down. The TRD Off-Road trim added practicality with a robust roof rack and optional hands-free power liftgate, extending the RAV4’s utility for more adventurous uses.

The 2019 RAV4’s technology started with a 7-inch touchscreen running Entune 3, which added Apple CarPlay compatibility but lacked Android Auto. Standard features included Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims like the XLE included additional USB ports, while the Adventure and Limited trims offered an upgraded infotainment experience with larger screens and optional JBL premium stereo systems.

The 2020 RAV4 continued the focus on user-friendly technology. The infotainment system, available with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the trim, now included both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Amazon Alexa. Though some glare issues persisted, the system was generally well-received, aided by physical menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. Voice-recognition capabilities were particularly impressive in the TRD Off-Road trim. An optional Technology Package added conveniences like wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a digital rear-view mirror with live video feed adjustments.

Safety was a priority for Toyota in both the 2019 and 2020 RAV4 models, both benefiting from the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite. The 2019 version included features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beams, and dynamic radar cruise control, along with newer additions like traffic-sign detection and Lane-Tracing Assist.

The 2020 RAV4 built on this foundation, incorporating advanced safety systems such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, radar adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Toyota also included a year-long free subscription to Safety Connect services for the 2020 model, offering additional peace of mind through features like automatic collision notification and activated SOS emergency assistance.

The 2020 RAV4 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, contingent on models equipped with full LED, curve-adaptive headlights, which were rated highly. Other crash protection and ADAS performance metrics received top marks, solidifying the RAV4's reputation for safety.