The Toyota RAV4 is offered in LE, XLE, SE, Limited and Platinum models, each with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Across the entire model line, the RAV4 comes with a 176-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, which is fitted to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The transmission features a flexible lockup torque-converter that permits better efficiency, especially at lower speeds.
The XLE Hybrid maintains the 2.5L four, but adds front and rear electric motors powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack -- good for 194 total horsepower. The unit is mated to a continuously variable transmission and is front-wheel drive, though it automatically powers the rear motors when extra traction is needed. The RAV4 Hybrid returns an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined.

All-wheel-drive models feature a Dynamic Torque Control system that uses an electromagnetically controlled coupling just in front of the rear differential and can send up to 50 percent of torque to the rear wheels when needed. The system routes all of the available torque to the front wheels to maximize fuel economy. The system includes an Auto mode, a Sport mode that sends power to the rear wheels from any start, as well as a Lock mode for use in deep snow, mud, or wherever slow, sure traction is needed or wheel slip might be helpful. Front-wheel-drive models get an Automatic Limited Slip Differential that can be engaged at low speeds and help negotiate slippery areas such as a snowy driveway.

The RAV4 drives like a car, thanks to MacPherson strut-type suspension up front and double-wishbones in the rear. Speed-sensitive electric power rack-and-pinion steering provides crisp response for navigating parking lots or twisting mountain roads.

Inside, thin-profile front seats help maximize legroom in back and front seats are upgraded in XLE and Limited models. Limited models upgrade the seating further with French stitching on SofTex leatherette upholstery and trims. Rear-seat space has been expanded and the seatbacks can recline somewhat when needed--or 60/40 split-flip forward to expand cargo capacity (with easy-retracting rear headrests).

Safety features include a total of eight airbags, including a driver knee airbag, as well as anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. Available blind spot monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert uses radar sensors to warn the driver of approaching vehicles.

RAV4 LE models come with 17-inch steel wheels, plus keyless entry, cruise control, power locks and windows and air conditioning. XLE models add alloy wheels, roof rails, a moonroof, fog lamps, folding power mirrors with integrated turn signals, dual-zone automatic climate control, sport-bolstered front seats, and a tonneau/cargo cover.

The SE trim builds on XLE features with sporty exterior accents, 18-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. It also includes heated front seats with an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, paddle shifters, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.

Limited models get 18-inch alloys, plus synthetic (SofTex) seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Smart Key entry, push-button start and a power liftgate.

At the top of the RAV4 food chain, lies the Platinum trim. It includes a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting in the footwell and an Enntune Premium JBL sound system with Navigation and an overhead 360 degree camera.

All RAV4 models include Display Audio sound systems with a 6.1-inch touch screen, as well as AM/FM/CD, a USB port, an auxiliary input, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling as well as six speakers. The touchscreen also allows configuration of the climate-control settings, use of the available navigation system, or Entune functions with mobile apps for services like Bing and Pandora. There's also a multi-information display that can be navigated through buttons on the steering wheel, with easy access to trip-computer functions and other displays. The step-up JBL Premium Audio system that's available on the RAV4 Limited adds a 576-watt, 8-channel amp and a total of eleven "GreenEdge" speakers.

Roomy Interior For A Compact SUV

Fuel-efficiency

Safety Features

Capable All-wheel-drive System

Excellent Connectivity And Audio Systems

For 2017 The RAV4 remains mostly unchanged. The biggest news is the addition of a top of the line Platinum model, which slots in above the Limited as the most expensive and nicest RAV4 trim. The sportier SE trim meanwhile, is also available as a Hybrid for 2017. Toyota's Safety Sense electronics suite also comes standard across the whole model range for this year, making the RAV4 a good choice for those with growing families, no matter the trim level.

The RAV4 was one of the first modern crossover utility vehicles, and since its redesign in 2013, it's been a better fit for the habits of its most common buyers -- families who want a fuel-efficient, reliable, easy-to-park vehicle. A capable all-wheel-drive system makes the RAV4 a smart pick for those needing to commute through snowy winters or take a trip to the mountain.