2022 Toyota RAV4 Preview: Specs, Features, Changes
The world’s best-selling SUV has been a household name in the business for a very long time and the current generation is no exception. It’s been around since 2019 and offers a great mix of ride quality, solid interior, spacious seats and pretty impressive fuel economy. We like its styling, which is also one of the main reasons for the model’s popularity. Finally, the list of standard and available safety features is pretty impressive, just like in any other Toyota. Naturally, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is expected to continue in the same way.
We don’t expect significant changes for the next year. It feels too early for a mid-cycle update, while the current version is doing pretty well. Also, keep in mind the last year’s introduction of RAV4 Prime and the new TRD Off-Road trim. All these things clearly indicate that no bigger changes should occur in the near future.
For the same reason, we expect that the 2022 Toyota RAV4 release date will be scheduled for the end of the year.
2022 Toyota RAV4 Design
As we’ve just mentioned, no bigger changes will happen in the next year. Of course, there is always a chance to see minor updates like new color options or appearance packages. Still, the overall layout will certainly remain the same. This SUV rides on the company’s new TNGA platform, which has brought notable improvements compared to the previous generation. The steering could be better but on the other hand, the comfort is at a pretty high level, which there is almost no body roll.
This SUV has never been too impressive in terms of off-road capability. However, things have become a little bit better with the introduction of the new TRD Off-Road trim level. This one brings improvements regarding suspension, all-terrain tires and a little bit higher ground clearance.
Interior
We find the RAV4’s interior quite appealing. The dashboard looks very attractive, while the improvements over the previous generations in terms of materials and build quality are notable. Furthermore, the ergonomics are better, while all controls are clear and easy to read, with super-easy access. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 interior could bring a few tweaks in terms of color schemes or new tech features, but most of the things should remain the same.
When it comes to the passenger space, there is nothing to complain about. Both rows offer enough space to accommodate adult passengers. The front seats are comfortable, while the driving position is very good. Still, the seats would use a little bit more support. The best thing about the second row is that there is almost no center tunnel, so the middle passenger can enjoy a relatively comfortable ride too.
When it comes to the cargo area, you may count on about 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row and nearly 70 cubic feet in total. Those are pretty strong numbers for the class. Practically, Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V are the only classmates with more cargo room.
Features
Yearly updates usually bring a couple of novelties in terms of standard equipment, so we may expect something similar from the 2022 Toyota RAV4. Still, most of the things should remain the same as in the current model, which comes standard with goodies like a 7-inch touch screen, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, a USB port, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a six-speaker stereo. Additionally, you can get an 8-inch touch screen, navigation, wireless device charging, an 11-speaker JBL sound system, four additional USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, a moonroof, and a panoramic moonroof.
When it comes to safety, all models will come standard with forwarding collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, road sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and lane trace assist etc.
2022 Toyota RAV4 Engines
When it comes to powertrain, things won’t change. Base models will continue with a 2.5-liter inline-four, which puts out around 203 horsepower. That’s the amount of power that will satisfy most drivers. Also, we like the 8-speed automatic transmission, which does a really good job. Finally, the fuel economy goes up to 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Those are some of the highest ratings in the class.
Of course, there is the hybrid version, based on the same gasoline engine, with a total output of 219 horsepower. It comes in pair with a CVT gearbox, while the fuel economy goes up to 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Finally, there is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime, with a plug-in hybrid setup that offers more than 300 horsepower and 42 miles of the all-electric range.
2022 Toyota RAV4 Release Date and Price
We expect to see the next year’s model sometime late this year. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 price shouldn’t change compared to the current model, which starts at around 27.000 dollars.
