Toyota Rav 4 test drive off-road

First test drive of the new generation Toyota RAV4

When moving from the fourth generation to the fifth, the RAV4 changed a little more than completely. The car is head and shoulders above its predecessor, but it may not fulfill its main market task.

Toyota > RAV 4

The transition to "fun" machines began simultaneously with the introduction of the TNGA architecture. Now she has reached the RAV4. The model was delayed on the way to Russia for more than a year. The fact is that we immediately started selling cars made in St. Petersburg, but localization took time. Over the past few months, the Rafik has been devoured by Kia Sportage and Volkswagen Tiguan in our market. So for the ambitious brand, now the number one task is to regain the lost first position in the segment.

Large test drive of Japanese crossovers - CX-5, CR-V, Outlander, RAV4

But then things went well. Like a Toyota Rav 4 test drive on off-road ice. Unfortunately, I don't have. Good luck. And so I bought it, decided that it was almost a jeep and immediately scratched through the swamps and forests. I didn’t know that I could get stuck, so I never, well, almost never: So you have to think, believe in your strength and in your car.

I'm not the ultimate truth, but I'll throw in my 5 cents! I rode both: The city is practically no difference, except that the RAV is more powerful than 2 liters versus 1.6 liters, the dimensions are the same, it’s easy to park on both cars, and the high seating position provides good visibility 2. Dirt Still, I can afford it on Paskuda yourself a little more than on the RAV, since the connected front end through the transfer case with a reduction gear is quite effective.

Transgender

When moving from the fourth to the fifth generation, the RAV4 pulled two tricks with its appearance at once. Firstly, for the first time in its quarter-century history, design is clearly defined as masculine. Until now it was unisex at best. Secondly, an optical illusion is triggered for the eye. Chopped rough features suggest that the car has expanded greatly in size. Nothing happened! The length was cut by half a centimeter, the height was the same. And only the base has added 30 mm, for which the rear passengers will thank you.

But where the geometry has become better is under the bottom and bumpers. Depending on the size of the wheels (for the first time, wheels with a diameter of up to 19 inches are installed on the Rafik), the ground clearance is 195–200 mm. For the 2.0 engine, this is at the level of its predecessor, which had 197 mm. But the 2.5 unit previously left only 165 mm from the asphalt. Now it has the same clearance as a decent SUV. Pass!

A rough measurement with a tape measure showed that the numbers were similar to honest ones. And in two days of testing, we still didn’t scratch the bottom. Although once, in an effort to take a shortcut, we drove into such a jungle using the navigator that, realizing the ambush of the situation, we had difficulty turning around.

I can, I can, I practice

If the crossover had been technically simpler, we would have turned back earlier, while the road was more decent and wider. But the RAV4 became related to its cool older brothers from the Land Cruiser clan and began to prance on the ground much more confidently.

When turning, this solution implements thrust vector control. More torque reaches the outer wheel, and the car is more willing to turn into a turn. It’s not very noticeable on asphalt, but if you drive quickly along a grader, the RAV4 behaves very obediently and predictably.

Off-road there is another advantage: the torque goes to the wheel that clings to the surface better. Nowadays this is implemented through the ESP algorithm, but the previous “Rafik” couldn’t even do this. Having driven cars of both generations through the same diagonal hanging, I clearly saw the advantages of the new scheme. With a slight delay, the all-terrain vehicle with an advanced transmission creeps forward, while its ancestor remains in place. Driving through is not always an option if you want to keep your bumpers intact.

Captive of illusions

Both power units are also new. The motors are from the Dynamic Force family, designed exactly for the TNGA “trolley”. The two-liter, although fresh in fact, does not indulge in numbers: 149 forces typical for the segment. Fairly lucky, but sad.

The assisting variator uses a gear first gear. The Japanese used a trick, entrusting it with a sharp increase in speed and pushing on the roads - those exercises that take too much health from the variator. And at higher speeds the belt comes into play. There are now as many as ten virtual transmissions in the range. The result is quieter operation of the power plant (lower speeds, all other things being equal) and an increased service life. I appreciated the first with my own ears and confirm, but I won’t talk about the second for now: time will tell.

The 2.5 engine was pumped up to 199 hp. Overseas, he gives out even more, but in our case, the Japanese took into account Russian tax legislation, for which special thanks to them. I admit, I expected more from this unit. Not a single spark in character! The claimed 8.5 s when accelerating to hundreds is hard to believe.

You can't blame the gearbox. The eight-speed transmission does not get confused in the gears and responds to driver requests almost instantly. So if horsepower is all about emotion for you, the RAV4 is not for you. Take a better look at the Mazda CX-5, Tiguan or Kodiaq. A powerful Rafik for those who value traditional Toyota values ​​in a slightly more nimble package.

The suspension, as well as the sound insulation, is generally good, but there is a nuance. As long as there are no sharp holes or joints under the wheels, everything is fine: soft and comfortable even on the maximum “nineteen” wheels. But as soon as the most difficult defects to work out appear, the chassis becomes noisier and harsher. To be fair: no breakdowns are observed, so the energy intensity is high. When looking closely at the Rafik, think about the roads he will have to drive on.

Having surpassed its predecessor in all respects, the Toyota RAV4 has noticeably risen in price. For a “base” with front-wheel drive, a “handle”, manual air conditioning and a solid rear seat back, they are asking 1.76 million rubles. All-wheel drive costs from 2,087,000 rubles, an advanced AWD transmission costs at least 2,290,000 rubles. Well, the most equipped crossover will cost 2.7 million. However!

Of the localized models, everything is cheaper. At the same time, Kia Sportage and Volkswagen Tiguan are confidently ahead in sales. At first, the demand for “rafiki” will definitely go up, thanks to the effect of novelty. Will this surge be enough to knock off the competition? I doubt it very much.

two versus one

The engineers went to increase the cost and complexity of the design for the sake of individual distribution of torque on the rear wheels. On asphalt, the clutches provide traction vector control: the outer wheel spins more actively than the inner one - and the car makes a turn more willingly. Outside of hard surfaces, with the help of separate clutches, 100% locking of the rear cross-axle differential is simulated!

But on the dirt road, the benefits of a complex transmission with a lack of clutch are felt very well. Rowing! The most obvious test was diagonal hanging. In such a situation, the previous RAV4 helplessly rotates its suspended wheels, and the new one, having slightly crunched its electronic brains, easily deals with the trap. The advanced transmission also comes with a road surface adaptation system, which further increases the chances of success off the asphalt.

The Rafik now has two engines on the Russian market. Diesel was fired without regret: demand was low. Gasoline units are from the new Dynamic Force family. These are atmospherics. The compression ratio of 13 makes them similar to Mazda’s Skyactiv engine, which has an even higher ratio of 14. And the main parameters are close: 149 hp from two liters, 199 hp from two and a half.

The two-liter engine reveals itself immediately. Lucky for his strength honestly, but sadly. On flat roads it is enough, for the city too, but short sections of dotted markings on serpentines put a taboo on overtaking.

A variator of an original design works in tandem with it. A gear first gear was added to it, operating at low speeds. It removes unpleasant loads from the belt during quick starts on the asphalt and when driving under tension on the roads.

There is no difference with the classic CVT. The benefit should manifest itself in an increase in resource. In general, the variator works flawlessly. I especially liked the ten virtual steps.

I expected more from the 200-horsepower 2.5 unit. The Mazda CX‑5 drives very cheerfully with this, as do the Tiguan and Kodiak, equipped with a 180‑horsepower TSI. And in the case of the RAV4, I don’t believe in the passport 8.5 seconds to hundreds. The engine makes a loud noise when accelerating, spins smoothly, but is absolutely unemotional. Yes, it's a Toyota.

Test drive Toyota RAV 4 demonstrates the capabilities of the car

This car is one of the most popular crossovers in Russia, it is second only to the Renault Duster. However, since there has been no restyling for a long time, there is an urgent need for another update - after all, you need to keep up with the times. And so, we waited for a response from Toyota. How did the new car turn out? A detailed description of the Toyota RAV 4 test drive will help you figure this out.

Interesting Facts

1. Toyota RAV4 is the founder of the class of modern crossovers. This past year marks her 25th anniversary.

The price includes three free maintenance, but this is unlikely to attract prudent buyers.

2. RAV4 has been the leader in the Russian segment of sales of medium-sized crossovers for several years. Even without being localized in Russia! But for two years now he has been third.
3. Since 2002, 376 thousand Rafiks have been sold in Russia. A quarter of them are domestically assembled.
4. Both engines deliver the manufacturer’s stated performance on AI-92 gasoline.

What will we see from the outside

Even for those who don't know much about cars, it's easy enough to see that the RAV4 is very different from its predecessors, without even getting behind the wheel. First of all, the eye experiences changes in the anterior and posterior parts. In fact, no major innovations have been made, but a number of small changes completely change the overall picture - after all, this approach is traditional for the brand.

A clear advantage here will be LED optics (including rear fog lights). Not only does it add significant visibility, but it also makes the car look more solid and stylish. Bumpers look stylish, especially in an urban environment. On the other hand, they slightly increase the length of the overhangs (front by 2 cm, rear by 1.5 cm). In addition, the design of the rear door was slightly changed, and the number of unpainted plastic elements was reduced.

Nominee for the Grand Prix “Behind the Wheel” 2021

Toyota RAV4 is one of the new products. But whether it is the best or not in its class is up to you to decide. Your opinion is important to us!

Voting has already begun. We will give away three Lada Vesta cars among the readers who voted.

The official page of the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix 2021 is available at this link.

• The general partner of the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix is ​​Cordiant.
• The winners of the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix 2021 can be found here.
• Read about who won the cars raffled off this year here.
• We have collected the 10 main car new products of winter 2019–2020 here.

Interior features

So, the RAV 4 test drive continues, and we get into the car. At first glance, it seems that no major changes have occurred. The only thing is that there is no longer a clock on the top shelf. But, as with the exterior, a lot has changed in the interior - you just need to take a good look.

The steering wheel now has a new, softer leather upholstery that is strongly reminiscent of modern Lexus models. The leather on the seats and center armrest has also become softer. The same applies to the door panel. In fact, based on tactile sensations, the car has changed a lot.

Speaking of ergonomics, the test drive of the Toyota RAV4, in fact, did not show anything new. All the same thresholds closed by doors, due to which neither the driver nor the passengers will get their pants dirty. The seating position is quite comfortable (the driver has an electric seat), and visibility is good. On the other hand, there are some miscalculations. For example, turning on the heated glass or selecting the transmission mode is not so easy - the keys are in the blind zone. Also, there is only one USB interface in the car - clearly not enough in modern realities. There is also only one cup holder, although now a mug with a handle fits there.

The equipment in the car is quite good - practically in no way inferior to its younger counterparts. The dashboard is reminiscent of the new Prado, in its center there is a 4.2-inch diagonal display, where you can see all the information regarding the route, torque distribution and road signs, which are recorded by the camera.

Among the main innovations it is worth highlighting:

• active cruise control;
• forward collision avoidance system;
• driver fatigue monitoring system.

The top-end configuration already includes a characteristic blind spot monitoring system, as well as a keyless engine start function. The audio system is controlled using the Toyota Touch system with a 6.1-inch monitor. Perhaps the graphics are not the best, but the music is controlled very quickly, and everything sounds quite good. The downside is that the system does not read Russian names of MP3 files.

Toyota rav4 off-road test drive video | Toyota car

Those who need more power, all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission can choose a 2-liter petrol engine. The all-wheel drive petrol version with an automatic transmission is equipped with a CVT, which is what we chose. There is, however, a 2.5-liter strong gasoline engine.

After starting, the petrol 2-liter four of the Toyota RAV4 idles very quietly and without vibrations - this is definitely thanks to the unit with Valvematic. Valvematic in the Toyota dictionary means technology for regulating valve lift and regulation in the intake manifold, which achieves optimal tuning at different loads and engine speeds.

The Japanese deliberately neglect the downsized supercharged mini-engine; the naturally aspirated engine in the RAV4 delivers its power, as before, in accordance with the displacement. The petrol engine of the new Toyota RAV4 produces almost the same power as a diesel engine. It is clear that the characteristics are also not very different. We didn’t test the acceleration dynamics announced by the manufacturer, but in any case Toyota RAV4 2. Test drive Skoda Octavia The popularity and great interest in the Skoda Octavia versions A5 and A7 is explained by their excellent performance, ergonomics and comfort, which are confirmed by the results of honest tests -drives of these cars and video review materials.

These cars have proven themselves to be one of the most reliable. So, what is Toyota Prado Tank How Many Liters is Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and fuel consumption 2. Suzuki Grand Vitara. Right-click and select “Save file.

Of course, the reputation of Suzuki and Toyota Rav 4 test drive off-road is quite high, but it’s still better once About this Kia-Sportage Toyota Rav 4 test drive off-road by presenting the versions of its engines, we did detailed material on the off-road, where it challenged Chevrolet Niva and Lade 4x4. Today he will compete on the asphalt, where he will compete with the best fighters in this discipline.

RAV 4 off-road

The finish is clean and flawless to the touch, good for both the eyes and the fingers. And the Kia's buttons are great.

There is no shortage of large knobs around the driver's seat; only two dozen control elements are responsible for fine-tuning the climate. When predicting Sportage's victory in parallel starts, we only got it half right.

It is the largest and heaviest. But the Nissan Qashqai surprised me. No matter what they say about resource and exhaust, Nissan’s diesel turbo horses are much more perky than gasoline ones.

Options and prices on the Russian market Toyota Rav 4 is presented in six trim levels: Price from 1, to 1, rub. It is distinguished from other configurations by more powerful electrical components and additional protection. Test drive of the updated SUV Our team is of the opinion that no matter how high-quality the text review of the car is, the most complete picture can only be obtained by seeing everything with your own eyes.

On the other hand, there are some miscalculations. For example, turning on the heated glass or selecting the transmission mode is not so easy - the keys are in a blind spot. Also, there is only one USB interface in the car - clearly not enough in modern realities. There is also only one cup holder, although now a mug with a handle fits there. Toyota Rav 4 test drive off-road

Toyota rav4 off-road test drive video

The equipment in the car is quite good - practically in no way inferior to its younger counterparts. The dashboard is reminiscent of the new Prado, in its center there is a 4.2-inch diagonal display, where you can see all the information regarding the route, torque distribution and road signs, which are recorded by the camera.

Among the main innovations, it is worth highlighting: The top-end configuration already has a characteristic blind spot monitoring system, as well as a keyless engine start function. The audio system is controlled using the Toyota Touch system with a 6.1-inch monitor. Perhaps the graphics are not the best, but the music is controlled very quickly, and everything sounds quite good.

The downside is that the system does not read Russian names of MP3 files. New Toyota C-HR crossover: Since the floor is flat, three people can easily fit there. During a test drive of Toyota Toyota Rav 4, off-road test drive 4, we also looked into the trunk.

Since the Japanese abandoned the full-size spare wheel, you won’t find the signature hump in the luggage compartment. The suspension must be kept in good condition. But there really isn’t enough space in the naya. Sometimes you have to remove the rear seats. Fortunately, this is easily done with two bolts for each seat.

It’s impossible, but there’s no way out. The RAV4 behaved very well. It dragged me back and forth like in Jurassic Park 2.

Capacity

First of all, being in such a car is quite comfortable, even for passengers sitting in the back seat. Since the floor is flat, three people can easily fit there. During the test drive of the Toyota RAV 4, we also looked into the trunk. Since the Japanese abandoned the full-size spare wheel, you won’t find the signature hump in the luggage compartment. At the same time, the trunk volume has increased to an impressive 577 liters. At the same time, the loading height has decreased - 64.6 cm. In principle, quite good indicators for cars of this class.

The shelf is distinguished by its flexibility. In addition, you can install an optional organizer in the trunk, which resembles a mesh hammock with longitudinal guides. It will be a convenient solution for transporting small items.

Engine features and other technical changes

Looking under the hood during a test drive of the Toyota RAV4, we didn’t see anything fundamentally new there. The engines remain the same:

• two naturally aspirated 4-cylinder gasoline engines 2.0 (146 horsepower, 187 Nm), 2.5 (180 horsepower, 233 Nm);
• turbodiesel 2.2 liters, 150 horsepower, 340 Nm.

There are also three transmissions to choose from: a six-speed manual, a CVT, and a six-speed automatic transmission. But it is a mistake to think that only the appearance and technical characteristics of the Toyota Rav 4 have changed. The new model is distinguished by its reinforced rear subframe. Thanks to this, the rigidity of the body has increased. In addition, during restyling, the suspension was redesigned, which improved handling and increased comfort for passengers and the driver. We installed larger rear silent blocks, made the shock absorbers somewhat stiffer, while the springs were softer.

How does the car feel when driving?

It's safe to say that most of the changes in the Toyota RAV 4 work. The ride has become somewhat more comfortable than in the previous model, while the vehicle remains as obedient and playful as before. You feel very comfortable behind the wheel - it feels as if someone is helping you do everything correctly and quickly. The same applies to high-speed driving, especially when comparing the Toyota Rav 4 and Volkswagen Tiguan.

But despite the increase in sound insulation, already after 90 km/h the hum begins to put pressure on the ears. In the case of a diesel engine, the noise will be slightly less.

The suspension absorbs bumps well. Moreover, including not only asphalt, but also primers and rock graders. But the car copes poorly with large potholes.

To sum it up, it’s worth saying that the new RAV4 is a true crossover, a worthy successor to the first RAV4 and subsequent generations of the RAV 4 of the 2000s. It is well suited for leaving the asphalt and taking owners to true, untouched nature. At the same time, the car is much more comfortable and modern than its predecessor.

Next is a large video test drive of the Toyota Rav 4 off-road:

Exterior and interior of Toyota RAV 4

The 4th generation of Japanese crossovers is significantly different from its predecessors. The changes affected not so much the exterior as the interior design and functionality.

Starting from the third generation, RAV 4 comes only in a five-door version. Instead of smooth and rounded shapes, clear, brutal lines appeared. Which significantly reduced air resistance while moving.

The enlarged and massive front bumper gives the car a sportier and more aggressive look.

Narrow LED headlights and a compact grille strip have also become more aggressive. But they still remind you that the car belongs to the Japanese Toyota brand.

The Raf 4 body “lost” its spare wheel. The trunk door now opens upwards rather than to the side, like its predecessors.

The crossover has increased its dimensions compared to previous models. The car has become longer by 235 mm, wider by 30 mm, but lower by 15 mm.

The interior of the Toyota Rav 4 has undergone a more significant modernization. The first thing car enthusiasts pay attention to is the increase in trunk space due to the elimination of the 3rd row of seats. The luggage compartment volume is 506 liters. If you fold the rear seat backs, the space increases to 1705 liters.

What can the RAV4 do off-road?

We need to start with the fact that its body was made with a bias towards a dynamic look, with brutal, semi-sharp edges of the body. This was done at the wrong time, because people were expecting something completely different.

But as you know, it's all in the details. Toyota began to collect information about their brainchild from various consumers. In the opinion of the majority, they began to eliminate the biggest defects immediately.

What's under the hood

Manufacturers have expanded their range of engines. For the new Toyota RAV 4 there are 3 types of engines:

• Gasoline four-cylinder with a volume of 2 liters 146 hp. Basic equipment. Available with both manual transmission and CVT. Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Average fuel consumption is 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers. Maximum speed – 180 km/h.
• Petrol four-cylinder 2.5 liter 180 hp. Replaced the 2.4. Automatic transmission is integrated. Only all-wheel drive solutions are available. Fuel consumption is 8.6 liters per 100 kilometers. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 9.4 seconds.
• Diesel 2.2 liter 150 horsepower (new). All-wheel drive is available. Comes with a machine gun. Maximum speed – 185 km/h. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 6.7 l/100 km.

Now in all-wheel drive vehicles, the distribution of torque between the axles is regulated by a new intelligent 4WD control system.

All-wheel drive is activated not only when the front axle slips, but also when entering turns, if the system detects insufficient maneuverability.

Shall we put it on two wheels? Test drive fifth generation Toyota RAV4

Photo by Elena Doroshkevich

Photo by Elena Doroshkevich

Have modern cars become the same and boring? We thought so too, until we took the fifth-generation RAV4 for a test. One thing is clear: it definitely won’t be boring!

We took the fourth one quite recently for a trip with Zhigamont. Especially so that later, without delay, you can compare the old and the new. And what is it new?

In foreign media, the main emphasis is on the unsafe behavior of the car. Toyota even admitted that it would make modifications to the car just in case.

Accordingly, I went to the dealer already with certain expectations that the car was not very good. Therefore, rubbing my hands, I sit down in the salon and mentally prepare to “destroy” it.

Yeah, of course... You turn your head in the cabin and don’t understand what’s wrong. Archaic elements have disappeared: buttons from the 1990s, and the automatic transmission selector with a “snake” design. Everything has become quite modern; there are countless USB ports in the cabin. If in the previous test RAV4 the front panel was made of hard plastic, then this one is made of soft plastic. Even the upper part of the rear door panels is upholstered in leather. At least this picture is observed in the rich configuration. But in general, you don’t find any shortcomings in the cabin. And there is a lot of space everywhere: front, rear, in the trunk. Very spacious car!

The only thing you can find fault with is the multimedia system, which does not have Apple Car Play and Android Auto. And the picture from the rear view camera is very “grainy” in the dark. Change the multimedia system to something more modern and high quality - and everything will be just fine.

And then you drive off in absolute silence, go onto the highway - and realize that the new RAV4 is even quieter than the previous one. Well, this is a really surprisingly quiet car. The only thing is that the engine makes a little noise in the “gas to the floor” mode, but it’s not at all critical.

The next surprise is the suspension. Firstly, it is comfortable, and secondly, it is very energy-intensive. The RAV4 drives on dirt roads like a rally car - you fly without understanding the road. We can't think of anything better for our roads.

That is, the car is quiet and soft, so it’s not clear what to blame. If you take the main German competitor of the Volkswagen Tiguan, then it is undoubtedly very good. Almost the perfect crossover and very high-tech. But he doesn’t have anything close to such a pendant. You pass speed bumps on it stealthily. And for our roads, a comfortable and energy-intensive suspension is important.

But the engine is not the most powerful: a 2-liter gasoline engine, which was also derated to Russian 149 hp. According to the passport, the car goes as much as 11 seconds to “hundreds” - this is a lot by today’s standards. But the secret is in the settings of the variator and the response to the gas. The car feels dynamic, I pressed it and it drove briskly. All thanks to good settings and an adequate variator. It has a starting gear and can simulate shifts. In general, there are zero questions about the engine and transmission combination. And thanks to the gears, it’s not so scary for the resource, since they protect the transmission during sudden starts and off-road. But the car is not a rocket, this must be taken into account.

According to the passport, consumption is 5.8 liters on the highway, 8.2 in the city and 6.7 liters average. The numbers are absolutely fantastic for such a large car. But we drive slowly along the Moscow Ring Road, look at the “tidy” - 6.2-6.3 liters when driving slowly! We didn’t measure the consumption accurately and in detail, but it feels like an economical car. Only the tank is small - 55 liters.

When we took the lighter Lexus UX with the same engine and transmission combination, there was a feeling that it was powered by the Holy Spirit. The consumption was very small. If you drive on the highway at 90 km/h, you get 4.8 l/100 km! In the city it was up to “ten” - 8-9 liters. But the RAV4 is heavier, so its consumption is higher. In any case, the motor is clearly economical.

It feels like the chassis was tuned by some rally maniac, because in addition to energy-intensive suspensions, the car has pronounced oversteer. Usually the stabilization system of modern cars is not turned off, but here it can be turned off almost completely and “spread sideways”. The smart all-wheel drive system with two clutches for each rear wheel is a pleasure to drive in the mud.

So what's the deal with "moose dough"? The stabilization system works; a driver without special skills will not be able to send the car into a deep skid or put it on two wheels - the steering speed is simply not enough. In order to force the car to “set” to a small angle with the stabilization system turned on, you have to try very hard.

In general, we did not notice any “crime” during the “rearrangement” with ESP turned on on winter tires. The only thing that confuses me is that on the asphalt the car sways on the second whiplash of a skid with the stabilization system turned off. It was not possible to install the RAV4 on two wheels in the conditions that we had. In any case, the manufacturer promised to reconfigure the active safety systems.

So far the system allows a lot: it turns off almost completely, and when turned on it allows you to wag the stern a little. The settings are clearly for car maniacs, and not for housewives.

The cost of the car starts from 28,000, the price of the test copy in the Prestige configuration is 37,000 dollars. It seems that it’s not cheap, taking into account the Russian assembly. But the Ravchiki keep their price very well in the used market. Flaws? In the previous generation, the paintwork quickly became chipped. It’s unclear how the new one will turn out, but it’s better to keep an eye on the paint just in case. The multimedia system is not the most modern. There is swaying when driving sideways with the stabilization system turned off on the asphalt, but who would drive this car sideways?

Otherwise, there are no reasons to openly criticize the RAV4. It’s not a boring car: it was clearly made by someone who liked to drive sideways on a dirt road - with these settings.

What do you think of the fifth generation Toyota RAV4? Write your opinion in the comments.

Test drive of Toyota Rav 4 in off-road conditions

During the test drive, the new car showed itself as a city crossover for a quiet and comfortable ride. It is better to avoid traveling outside the city in bad weather.

Snow drifts outside the city limits are difficult to pass. To overcome the snowdrifts you have to make every effort. If you constantly operate a car in such conditions, it will quickly fail. On the knurled track the car moves smoothly and effortlessly. In icy areas, it becomes difficult to control the braking system.

It is difficult to move in off-road conditions. The "helpers" can't cope.

If Rav 4 gets into the mud on one more side, it drives out. But if you use all four wheels, it will get stuck. To go up the hill, you will have to make a slight acceleration or increase your speed.

A video of the Toyota Rav 4 test drive can be seen above.

New Toyota RAV 4 off-road test drive video

Now this is essentially not Rav, but nevertheless it’s cool! This is what the unbridled passion for off-road tuning brings some people to. Since the beginning of the swap, Rav Savakrola has lost its practical value for me, now it’s just interesting.

But until this moment, his recordings of Toyota Rav 4 off-road were a source of information on the elevator for me and, I think, a considerable number of driver leaders. Not only him, of course, I just watched mostly from him.

Everything about him was more or less beautiful and neat. You can also remember the Hondasi and its Shershavoy - everything here is absolutely beautiful. Full size Rough is beautiful. But it can be done differently. Why not? Some people don't care what it looks like, what matters is how it functions. In addition, I know from myself that when a car has already been thoroughly tortured, the off-road performance of a Toyota Rav 4 is severalfold.

When you first look at the car, it immediately becomes clear what's what. So - the designers’ work was limited to restyling the front bumper, rear and front lights taken from the Toyota Camry - this trend started with the Mitsubishi brand. And the latest change to the Toyota Rav 4 off-road car is the rims - casting 17 in diameter, with new patterns.

The entire restyled modernization only updated the appearance of the car, but this did not affect the design features in any way.

However, there is also a more expensive version than the standard one - the long-wheelbase Toyota Rav 4 for ten centimeters off-road is equipped with a one hundred and seventy-horsepower 2.4-liter engine. And, by the way, it has not been restyled. It has become a little more powerful than its predecessor. And according to the experts present at the test drive, this power and torque should be enough for both city driving and off-road driving. The car is very comfortable and ethereal, so to speak.

Pros of the car

The Toyota RAV 4 crossover has a number of advantages that attract car enthusiasts:

• High degree of safety and reliability. Frontal, driver's knee, side airbags, curtain airbags, child seat mounts, built-in emergency call function - a standard set of basic equipment. The car has stability control and hill assist systems, emergency braking and blind spot monitoring.
• Available maintenance. The number of dealership centers is increasing every year. Toyota undergoes maintenance free of charge under warranty. Spare parts are easy to find and buy.
• High liquidity of the model. Toyota Rav 4 is easy to sell on the secondary market. This is a sought after brand.
• Comfort level. In the 4th generation of the crossover in all trim levels, car enthusiasts can find the necessary functions for a long journey. Climate control, heated windshield, side mirrors, windshield washer nozzles, folding rear armrests, etc.

RAV 4 is a comfortable, safe and dynamic car.

Cons of a crossover

The list of shortcomings of the Rav 4 was compiled based on reviews from car enthusiasts. Here are the main ones:

• Weak paintwork. Chips and scratches appear very quickly. The bumper is especially sensitive to random pebbles.
• Low quality plastic.
• Insufficient sound insulation. When driving fast, the noise of the running engine becomes noticeable.
• Stiff suspension. It is especially noticeable on rough roads.
• Unreliable variator. Fails quickly. Does not tolerate very low temperatures, long slips, sharp braking and prolonged loads.
• Overpriced. Drivers consider the price high due to the poor quality of materials and paint. Competitors have a richer interior, more features for the same money.

The crossover ranks first among frequently stolen cars. This is not due to the security system, but to the popularity of this brand.

Reviews of the Toyota Rav 4 car

According to owner reviews, Rav 4 is a worthy representative of comfortable SUVs. If you service it on time, buy original consumables and spare parts, you will only be happy with the crossover. Car enthusiasts like:

• body design;
• economical fuel consumption;
• increased ground clearance;
• spacious trunk;
• climate control;
• ergonomic and comfortable seats;
• safety system;
• available spare parts.

Drivers note high-quality assembly, liquidity in the secondary market, chic headlights, and quiet running on the highway.

The negative features of Rav 4 include:

• insufficient sound insulation on sand and gravel;
• low quality paint and plastic in the interior;
• incorrect multimedia firmware (works poorly from the first day);
• “crickets” in the front panel;
• hard to accelerate;
• rough ride on bad roads;
• uncomfortable backrest of the driver's seat (“lower back collapses”).

Toyota RAV 4 is more suitable for a comfortable and safe trip with the family. The car behaves well in city conditions, on asphalt roads, dry sand, and gravel. Doesn't handle off-road conditions well enough.