We took the Toyota Rav4 for a ride.
Overall, the 2022 Toyota Rav4 is a top contender in the compact SUV market.
Its combination of style, safety, and efficiency make it a great choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and practical vehicle.
This article will provide an in-depth review of the 2022 Rav4, highlighting its features, performance, and overall value.
Here’s our verdict!
Table of Contents
The First Impression
I must say I expected the hybrid to offer more torque and acceleration when pressing the pedal to the floor.
I was expecting a bit more bite. I’d say it’s comparable to most mid-size sedans (such as my Ford Fusion) but I guess that’s what you should expect from the engine + electric motor boost setup.
That said, it’s very fuel efficient and shouldn’t be a car you purchase to get high acceleration!
One of the main selling points of the 2022 Rav4 is its fuel efficiency. With a hybrid option that boasts up to 40 mpg combined, this SUV is perfect for those who want to save money at the pump while still enjoying a comfortable and spacious ride.
In addition to its impressive fuel economy, the Rav4 also offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it a pleasure to maneuver on both city streets and highways.
Exterior Design
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 boasts a bold and modern exterior design that stands out from its competitors.
The SUV has a rugged and sporty look that is perfect for those who love adventure. The exterior design of the 2022 Rav4 has been updated from the previous model year, and it features several new additions that make it even more appealing to buyers.
Front Fascia and Grille
The front fascia of the 2022 Toyota Rav4 features a redesigned grille that is wider and more aggressive than the previous model year.
The grille is flanked by sleek and modern headlights that give the SUV a distinctive look.
The front bumper has also been updated, and it now features a more prominent skid plate that adds to the ruggedness of the vehicle.
Headlights and Taillights
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 comes equipped with LED headlights and taillights that provide excellent visibility and a modern look. The headlights are designed to be more efficient than the previous model year, and they provide a brighter and more focused beam of light.
The taillights are also updated, and they feature a sleek and modern design that complements the rest of the SUV’s exterior.
Wheel Options and Sizes
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 comes with several wheel options and sizes to choose from. The base model comes with 17-inch wheels, while higher trims come with 18-inch or 19-inch wheels. The wheels are available in several different designs, including alloy wheels and black-painted wheels.
Available Colors
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 is available in several different colors, including:
- Magnetic Gray Metallic,
- Lunar Rock,
- and Blueprint.
The SUV also comes in several two-tone color options, including Lunar Rock with Ice Edge Roof and Blueprint with Midnight Black Metallic Roof.
Comparison to Previous Model Years
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 features several updates to its exterior design compared to previous model years.
The grille is wider and more aggressive, and the front bumper has been updated with a more prominent skid plate.
The headlights and taillights are also updated, and the SUV comes with several new wheel options and sizes. Overall, the 2022 Toyota Rav4 has a more modern and sporty exterior design that is sure to turn heads on the road.
Interior Design and Comfort
Cabin Layout and Seating Capacity
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 has a spacious and well-designed cabin that provides ample headroom and legroom for passengers. It can comfortably seat up to five passengers.
The cabin layout is user-friendly and intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls and a well-designed dashboard.
The front seats are supportive and comfortable, while the rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom for adult passengers.
Material Quality and Overall Aesthetics
The interior of the 2022 Toyota Rav4 is well-crafted and features high-quality materials throughout the cabin.
The seats are upholstered in soft-touch materials, and the dashboard and door panels are accented with attractive trim pieces.
The overall aesthetic of the cabin is modern and refined, with a sleek and stylish design that is sure to impress.
Infotainment System and Connectivity Options
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that is easy to navigate and offers a range of connectivity options.
The system features a large touchscreen display that is responsive and intuitive, and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
The system also includes a range of advanced features, such as:
- a Wi-Fi hotspot,
- a premium sound system,
- and a wireless charging pad.
Cargo Space and Storage Solutions
The Toyota Rav4 offers plenty of cargo space, with up to 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
There are also numerous storage solutions throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment.
The rear seats can also be folded down to provide additional cargo space when needed.
We have all the specs about cargo size and measurements for the Rav4 models here.
Comfort and Convenience Features
The Toyota Rav4 is equipped with a range of comfort and convenience features that make it a pleasure to drive.
These include features such as:
- dual-zone automatic climate control,
- heated and ventilated front seats,
- a power-adjustable driver’s seat,
- and a heated steering wheel.
The Rav4 also comes with a range of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Overall, the 2022 Toyota Rav4 offers a well-designed and comfortable interior that is sure to impress.
The cabin is spacious and user-friendly, with high-quality materials and a range of advanced features that make it a pleasure to drive.
Powertrain and Performance
Engine Options and Specifications
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 is available in two engine options: the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the hybrid powertrain.
Here’s a full overview of all the years and models of Toyota Rav4.
The standard engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid powertrain produces a combined 219 horsepower.
The hybrid powertrain also features an electric motor that provides instant torque and helps with fuel efficiency. Both engine options come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Hybrid Model Overview
The Rav4 hybrid model is a popular choice for those who want a fuel-efficient SUV.
It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors to produce a combined 219 horsepower.
The electric motors provide instant torque and help with acceleration. The hybrid model also comes with electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, which provides better traction and stability on slippery roads.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The eight-speed automatic transmission in the Rav4 shifts smoothly and provides quick response.
The standard model comes with front-wheel drive, while the hybrid model comes with electronic on-demand all-wheel drive.
The all-wheel drive system automatically sends power to the wheels with the most traction, providing better stability and control on slippery roads.
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
The Rav4 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with the standard engine and front-wheel drive.
The hybrid model gets an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The Rav4 also meets the ULEV-70 emissions standard, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Handling, Steering, and Overall Driving Experience
The Rav4’s handling is responsive and well-balanced.
The steering is precise and provides good feedback. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, but it still provides good control and stability.
The overall driving experience is smooth and enjoyable, with plenty of power and good fuel efficiency.
You can read more here about ground clearance numbers for all Rav4 models.
Safety Features and Ratings
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Awards
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 has received high marks for safety from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The NHTSA gave the Rav4 an overall safety rating of five out of five stars, while the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+.
The Rav4 also received a Good rating in all crash tests conducted by the IIHS, including the small overlap front test, which simulates a collision with a utility pole or other object.
In addition to these ratings, the Rav4 comes equipped with a variety of standard safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes:
- adaptive cruise control,
- lane departure warning,
- and automatic emergency braking.
Other available safety features include.
- blind spot monitoring,
- rear cross traffic alert,
- and a surround-view camera system.
Comparison to Competitors in the Compact SUV Segment
When compared to other compact SUVs on the market, the 2022 Toyota Rav4 stands out for its impressive safety ratings and features.
For example, the 2022 Honda CR-V received an overall safety rating of four out of five stars from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, but it does not offer as many advanced safety features as the Rav4.
The 2022 Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, received an overall safety rating of five out of five stars from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, but it is not available with some of the same safety features as the Rav4, such as blind spot monitoring.
Overall, the 2022 Toyota Rav4 is a top choice for those looking for a compact SUV with excellent safety ratings and a wide range of advanced safety features.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Standard and Optional Features for Each Trim
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 comes in six different trim levels:
- LE,
- XLE,
- XLE Premium,
- Adventure,
- TRD Off-Road,
- and Limited.
The LE comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assist features.
The XLE adds a moonroof, push-button start, and blind-spot monitoring.
The XLE Premium includes SofTex-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a power liftgate.
The Adventure has a unique exterior design, a 120V power outlet, and an upgraded infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen.
The TRD Off-Road has all-terrain tires, a retuned suspension, and unique styling elements.
The Limited comes with a JBL sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Pricing Breakdown for Each Trim
Trim Level | Starting Price |
---|---|
LE | around $26,000 |
XLE | around $29,000 |
XLE Premium | around $32,000 |
Adventure | around $35,000 |
TRD Off-Road | around $36,000 |
Limited | around $38,000 |
Notable Packages
There are several notable packages available for the 2022 Toyota Rav4. The Convenience Package, available on the LE and XLE trims, adds a power liftgate, blind-spot monitoring, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.
The Weather Package, available on the XLE Premium and higher trims, adds heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Advanced Technology Package, available on the Limited, adds a 360-degree camera system, a digital rearview mirror, and front and rear parking sensors.
Overall, the 2022 Toyota Rav4 offers a range of trim levels and packages to suit different needs and budgets. Customers can choose from a variety of features and add-ons to customize their vehicle to their liking.
Pros and Cons
Key Advantages of the Toyota RAV4
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 has several advantages that make it a popular choice among SUV buyers. Firstly, its hybrid powertrain delivers excellent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Secondly, the RAV4 has a spacious and comfortable interior that can accommodate up to five passengers with ease.
Check here what Rav4 models that has 3rd row seating.
Thirdly, the RAV4 comes with a long list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Areas Where the RAV4 Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the RAV4 has a few areas where it falls short compared to its rivals.
Firstly, the RAV4’s infotainment system can be slow and difficult to use, especially when compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5.
Secondly, the RAV4’s ride can be stiff and bumpy, especially on rough roads.
Check the Rav4 off-road capabilities here.
Finally, the RAV4’s base engine lacks the power and acceleration of some of its rivals, which can make it feel sluggish at times. At least that’s what we found when we took it for a spin.
Ideal Buyer Profile for the RAV4
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is an ideal choice for buyers who are looking for a fuel-efficient, practical, and reliable SUV.
It is perfect for small families, commuters, and anyone who wants a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
However, buyers who prioritize a smooth ride, a powerful engine, or an advanced infotainment system may want to consider other options in the SUV market.
The 2022 Toyota Rav4 is a popular compact SUV that has received a lot of attention since its release.
With its sleek design, advanced safety features, and impressive performance, the Rav4 has quickly become a favorite among drivers looking for a reliable and practical vehicle.

