If you’re in the market for a reliable, versatile, and efficient SUV, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 should definitely be on your list. This popular compact SUV offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo, along with a variety of advanced safety features and modern technology. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the 2021 Toyota RAV4 and what makes it such a standout choice.
Table of Contents
Overview of the 2021 Toyota RAV4
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a five-passenger compact SUV that comes in nine different trims: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road, XSE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, XLE Premium Hybrid, and Limited. The RAV4 is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with front-wheel drive, although all-wheel drive is available on all trims.
One of the things that set the RAV4 apart from other compact SUVs is its impressive fuel economy. The front-wheel drive RAV4 gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined (27 city/35 highway), while the all-wheel drive version gets 29 mpg combined (25 city/33 highway). The RAV4 Hybrid, which has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, gets an EPA-estimated 40 mpg combined (41 city/38 highway) and has all-wheel drive standard.
Exterior Design
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 features a bold and modern exterior design that is sure to turn heads. The front grille is large and aggressive, while the sharp lines and angular accents give the RAV4 a sporty and dynamic look. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims have a more rugged appearance, with a distinctive grille, black roof rails, and unique wheels.
The XSE Hybrid trim, on the other hand, has a sleek and sophisticated design, with black accents, 18-inch five-spoke black alloy wheels, and a two-tone paint scheme. Overall, the RAV4’s exterior design is both eye-catching and functional, with features like available LED headlights and taillights that provide excellent visibility and enhance safety.
Interior Design and Features
Inside, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The front seats are supportive and offer ample headroom and legroom, while the rear seats are spacious enough for adults to sit comfortably. The RAV4 has 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 69.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.
The RAV4’s interior design is both stylish and functional, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The dashboard features an 8-inch touchscreen display that controls the infotainment system, which includes standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The higher trims also offer features like a 9-inch touchscreen display, a premium JBL audio system, and wireless smartphone charging.
Safety Features
One of the biggest selling points of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is its advanced safety features. All RAV4 trims come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of advanced safety technologies that include:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses cameras and radar to detect potential collisions with pedestrians or other vehicles, and can automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: This system uses cameras to detect when the vehicle is drifting out of its lane and can apply corrective steering inputs to keep the vehicle centered.
- Automatic High Beams: This system uses cameras to detect oncoming traffic and automatically switches between high and low beams to avoid blinding other drivers.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: This system uses radar to detect the distance between the RAV4 and the vehicle in front of it, and can automatically adjust speed to maintain a safe following distance.
In addition to these features, the RAV4 also offers available safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.
Driving Experience
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience that is well-suited for both city and highway driving. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a smooth and stable ride even over rough roads. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
The RAV4’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides plenty of power for most driving situations, with quick acceleration and a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The available all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions, making the RAV4 a great choice for drivers who live in areas with harsh weather.
For drivers who want a more adventurous driving experience, the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims offer additional features like a multi-terrain select system, which allows the driver to choose different driving modes for different types of terrain. The TRD Off-Road trim also offers a sport-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires, making it well-suited for off-road adventures.
Overall, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers a well-rounded driving experience that is both comfortable and engaging.
Cost and Value
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 has a starting MSRP of $26,150 for the base LE trim, while the highest trim level, the Limited, has a starting MSRP of $36,780. The RAV4 Hybrid, which is available in four trims, has a starting MSRP of $28,500 for the LE Hybrid and $37,030 for the Limited Hybrid.
While the RAV4’s starting price is slightly higher than some of its competitors, it offers a great value for its class. The RAV4’s impressive fuel economy, advanced safety features, and modern technology make it a standout choice in the compact SUV market.
Conclusion
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience, advanced safety features, and modern technology. With nine different trims to choose from, there is a RAV4 to suit a wide range of drivers’ needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a practical and efficient family vehicle or a rugged and adventurous SUV, the RAV4 is definitely worth considering.
