Tech & Auto
Every Toyota RAV4 Generation Ranked
By ALEX HEVESY
5. 3rd Generation
While the 3rd generation RAV4 is far from a terrible vehicle, its only real innovation was the addition of another powerplant, a 3.5-liter V6 that could produce 268 horsepower.
Unlike the 2nd generation, which evolved the car’s whole purpose, the 3rd generation saw the RAV4 flow into complacency during its lifetime from 2006 to 2012.
4. 4th Generation
Like its previous model, the 4th generation RAV4 didn’t break any boundaries. It wasn’t until Toyota released the first RAV4 hybrid in 2016 that it featured any major change.
While 32 combined miles per gallon was a plus, the 2013 to 2018 model was hardly the sales blockbuster that the Prius was and wasn’t innovative like the other RAV4 generations.
3. 2nd Generation
The 2nd generation RAV4 from 2000 to 2005 improved nearly every aspect of the original, from the size and power of the vehicle to new features.
Not only did the 2nd generation RAV4 make the car more usable, but it also made the vehicle a tempting option as a family hauler.
2. 5th generation
The current generation of RAV4 that began in 2019 is one of the best versions Toyota has produced, especially the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime.
This generation is reasonably powerful and can generate up to 302 horsepower, which is immensely respectable by family crossover SUV metrics.
1. 1st Generation
The 1st generation RAV4 garnered the most praise because of two critical factors: it was available with a five-speed manual and could even be configured as a two-door.
Unfortunately, the 1996 to 2000 model didn’t have impressive gas mileage or power. Regardless, it found its way into the hearts of many consumers.
Honorable Mention
Toyota partnered with the then-infant electric vehicle company Tesla to build an electric RAV4 in 2010, resulting in the 2012 RAV4 EV.
While the EV had a less-than-stellar reception when released, its 103 estimated miles of range was reasonably impressive.