Is The 2022 Toyota RAV4 A Good Car? What To Know

Published February 26, 2024
in Reliability

Reviewing the Toyota RAV4 feels eerily similar to scanning through the latest critique on a fresh-off-the-assembly-line iPhone. Both products are top quality and designed with the masses in mind, making them accessible and downright irresistible to a wide swath of consumers. Their popularity isn’t accidental; it’s the result of user-centric design, reliability, and brand consistency that promises, “you know what you’re getting into” – and it will be good.

Is that the case with the 2022 RAV4? Is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 a good car? For today’s buyers’ guide, we highlight some of the critical qualities of the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and some of its potential flaws. Let’s take a look.

Engine, Performance, and Fuel Economy

Engine options are always good, and the 2022 RAV4 has a decent array of engine selections, including:

2.5-liter Inline-4 Gas Engine: This is the standard engine across most of the RAV4 lineup, delivering a solid 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It provides a good balance of power and efficiency, more than adequate for daily driving or the occasional long trips.
Hybrid Powertrain: The RAV4 Hybrid models combine the 2.5-liter engine with electric motors, boosting total system output to 219 horsepower. The hybrid setup not only enhances performance but also significantly improves fuel efficiency.
RAV4 Prime (Plug-in Hybrid): The most potent engine, the RAV4 Prime, pushes the performance envelope further with a combined output of 302 horsepower from its 2.5-liter engine and electric motors. This powertrain delivers brisk acceleration and offers an all-electric driving range, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers seeking more punch.

The RAV4 boasts steering that’s quick to react and satisfyingly solid, making it a breeze to handle without veering into overly athletic territory. This equilibrium positions it as a top pick for those who value a smooth and straightforward drive over the thrill of sportiness. Its brakes smoothly ramp up, lending a sense of security and mastery over the drive.

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Ride comfort is also a highlight, as the 2022 RAV4 skillfully smooths over road bumps and flaws without fully sealing off outside noise or roughness. This degree of comfort and decent noise reduction craft a welcoming atmosphere inside the vehicle. Sure, it won’t help you win your local race scene, but it’s great for daily driving.

2022 Toyota RAV4 Fuel Economy

Is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 a good car? For many consumers, it depends on how gas-hungry this car is. Thankfully, the RAV4 doesn’t have a big appetite for fuel. Below is a breakdown of each engine’s fuel economy:

Standard Gas Engine: Front-wheel-drive models offer an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel drive versions see a slight dip to 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
Hybrid Models: The RAV4 Hybrid provides an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.
RAV4 Prime: The plug-in hybrid variant, the RAV4 Prime, provides an EPA-estimated 94 MPGe and a 42-mile all-electric range.

For a more detailed look into the 2022 RAV4’s fuel economy, please visit the FuelEconomy.gov page.

Interior and Tech Features

As a compact crossover for the mainstream consumer, the 2022 RAV4’s interior is about practicality and ergonomics. While it may not be the most luxurious in its class, the RAV4’s interior is practical, spacious, and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample front and rear room for adults to ride comfortably. While the base LE trim can be rather spartan with plastic surfaces and cloth seats, more upmarket materials, like faux leather upholstery and contrast stitching, can be found on higher-end models.

Meanwhile, the centerpiece of the RAV4’s tech offerings is its user-friendly infotainment system. Standard across the range is a 7-inch touchscreen (with an optional 8-inch screen available on higher trims), which supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

Alongside the infotainment system, the RAV4 comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot to keep passengers connected on the go – all the good stuff you can think of for in-car connectivity. Plus, an available premium JBL audio system elevates the listening experience for the more discerning music enthusiasts.

2022 TOYOTA RAV4 PROS & CONS

This comprehensive overview aims to guide you through decision-making by providing detailed insights into the 2022 Toyota RAV4 pros and cons. Does this popular SUV meet your needs?

Safety Features and Ratings

Is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 a good car? Is it safe? Fortunately, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is one of the class leaders in safety in its class, boasting an array of advanced features alongside stellar safety accolades. At its core, the RAV4 is fortified with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a cutting-edge suite that combines many driver-assistance technologies, such as the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Lane Tracing Assist. Moreover, the SUV’s safety ensemble is further enriched with eight airbags and the comprehensive Star Safety System.

For those seeking additional peace of mind, optional features like the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert add an extra layer of safety and security.

Regarding safety ratings, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 shines with a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS thanks to its high-performing headlights, and it also excels in safety tests, earning “Good” ratings across the board. Adding to its safety accolades, the RAV4 boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a perfect score in side crash protection.

HOW LONG DO TOYOTA RAV4s LAST?

It’s a compact crossover SUV, excellent for those who want something that will look good in the city or on a dirt road. If you’re interested in this car, you might wonder - how long do Toyota RAV4s last on the road?

Long-Term Reliability and Lifespan

Fortunately, the 2022 RAV4 benefited from Toyota’s legendary reputation for reliability and longevity. RepairPal says the Toyota RAV4 is the third most reliable compact SUV in the market – so there’s little doubt the 2022 version can’t provide you with the same dependable performance. Furthermore, with some TLC, the 2022 RAV4 should last you as many as 250,000-300,000 miles.

Final Verdict: Is The 2022 Toyota RAV4 A Good Car?

Frankly, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2022 Toyota RAV4. There’s a good reason why this compact SUV continues to be in high demand – it’s safe, reliable, and agreeable. It’s not the most exciting drive, but it more than gets the job done for a daily driver.

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