The RAV4 has earned its reputation as one of the safest used SUV bets on the market, but that does not mean every model year deserves the same consideration. The generation you consider changes the ownership experience. Here is how to tell them apart, so you know why the Toyota RAV4 is a strong used SUV option.
Key Takeaways
- The Toyota RAV4 is one of the safest cars on the market.
- The RAV4 became the best-selling SUV in its third generation.
- The most recent generation boasted a few new trims.
First Generation: 1996–2000
The first RAV4 came in both two-door and four-door versions, each with a side-opening rear tailgate. A 120-hp four-cylinder did the heavy lifting, and you had the choice of a standard five-speed manual or an available four-speed automatic. Toyota also gave buyers plenty of flexibility with the drivetrain, offering a choice between front-wheel drive and an all-wheel-drive setup that came with a center-locking differential for better grip.
This RAV-4 seats up to five, though rear-seat space made that a stretch, especially in the two-door models, where taller passengers would feel the squeeze immediately. In 1997, Toyota introduced a small number of fully electric RAV4 models for the California market. A facelift followed in 1998, awhich included the addition of a Soft Top configuration.
Second Generation: 2001–2005
The second-generation RAV4 brought a bump up in performance, thanks to a 148-horsepower engine. Toyota dropped the two-door configuration but kept the side-opening rear hatch. Overall length increased by about three inches, giving it a bit more presence. Air conditioning became standard in 2003. In 2004, Toyota introduced a larger 4-cylinder engine that raised output to 161 horsepower. That same 2003 model year also marked the end of the California-focused RAV4 EV.
Third Generation: 2005–2011
Toyota continued refining the RAV4 with this generation. Interior volume increased by 21 percent, driven by a longer wheelbase. That change made it possible to add an available third row of seating. Engine options expanded to include a 166-hp 2.4L inline-four (later replaced with a 178-horsepower version) and a 270-hp 3.5L V6. With these updates, the RAV4 reached a new level of popularity and became the best-selling SUV for the first time.
Fourth Generation: 2013–2018
In this gen, Toyota made major updates inside and out. A 6-speed automatic transmission replaced earlier setups, and every model used a 176-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. (Toyota eliminated the V6 option.)A limited-edition EV remained available in California for a short time, but Toyota discontinued it after 2014.
One of the more noticeable changes was the move from a side-opening rear hatch to a liftgate, which was power-operated on higher trims. A hybrid model joined the lineup in 2016, and starting in 2017, Toyota made its Safety Sense package standard across the board with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Fifth Generation: 2019–2025
Toyota went back to the drawing board for the 2019 model year. Gas models used a 203-horsepower 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic. Hybrid models produced 219 horsepower and used a CVT. Standard features included more advanced safety systems, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, LED headlights, and high-beam assist. Tech updates also included the addition of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in 2023.
Toyota expanded the lineup with new trims over this gen. The TRD Off-Road trim debuted in 2020, the RAV4 Prime PHEV joined the lineup in 2021, and in 2025, Toyota renamed it the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. That year, Toyota trimmed the lineup from six to four models.
Fifth-gen models are abundant on the market, but the real challenge is the price tag. Since Toyotas are famous for hanging onto their resale value, you’re going to have to put in some serious legwork if you want to track down a bargain. (But don't fret—they are out there!)
Our Dealership Awaits You!
We have plenty of RAV-4's in stock on our lot. Come and see us at St Pete Mitsubishi for the best deals on your next Toyota—we're here to help you find your next SUV!