2012 Toyota RAV4 Review: A Long Lasting Small SUV For Budget Conscious Shoppers

Alex Showalter
Jan 22, 2022

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV with a price range of $11,695 to $15,724. A low cost of ownership and better reliability than the competition make the RAV4 a car we recommend.

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likeFilled The Good
Outstanding reliability scores with fewer problems than other SUVs, class-leading power with the optional V6 engine, and a comfortable suspension.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The optional third row of seats only fits small children, the infotainment system is outdated to use, and the door style tailgate is harder to load than the competitors.

2012 Toyota RAV4: Quick Overview

  • New features for the 2012 model year include an updated infotainment system, and standard Bluetooth across the range.
  • Reliability ratings are great according to J.D. Power, with a similar number of problems compared to the older 2011 model.
  • Two engine choices are available, including a V6 with excellent power for the class.
  • Fuel economy is average, tying for 7th place out of 23 compact SUVs, with a combined rating of up to 24 miles per gallon.
  • Safety ratings are good for a compact SUV, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
  • The 2012 Toyota RAV4 ranks 3rd out of 23 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews. The long-lasting powertrains and a spacious cabin help the RAV4 stand out as a winner.

Expert Ratings

KBB
3.5/5
US News
9.0/10

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Evie K
Reliable and classic Toyota rav4.
My car has been really dependable. I have not had many issues, it is just been a matter of proper maintenance. It is comfortable, it was worth the price and I would definitely buy it again. I also think it is a cute little SUV. It is perfect if you want an SUV but do not want something huge and the car is really good in the snow.
accountCircle Elena B
The most important thing others should know is how great it is.
I have no complaints about my 2012 Toyota RAV4. It drives well and it is a comfortable size. It is user friendly in terms of phone connectivity for playing music and has a rear view camera which makes backing up simple. Overall I love my Toyota RAV4.
accountCircle Erin D
Toyota RAV4 review- emergency brake
Problem with the emergency brake. Gets stuck if you don't use it often, so make sure to use it every few days. My car also shakes as it gets up to about 60 mph which it shouldn't for a newer vehicle. I have no other problems with my vehicle, I love it and hope to have it a lot longer
accountCircle Elaine M
The Rav4 model is a trouble free Toyota excellent quality vehicle.
The size is perfect - not too small or too big. Also like the sportiness of the car. The hatch back door is very handy and having 4 doors is perfect.
accountCircle Ayah S
RAV4 is a pretty good car
Too old to have Bluetooth, but the aux works and it's a simple to use radio. The car itself is durable and a good size. It is reliable, stayed that way for over 100k miles. Some problems when it rains with the electrical system showing maintenance lights but they go away
accountCircle Friedrich
Toyota RAV4 V6 sport
My best ever car , 246000km no issues, every things working on this car , I bough it with leathers seats package, even the radio bonjovi package I oiled the car for years so no rust anywhere Excellent perfect car
accountCircle Megan O
The most important thing to know about my car is that it's a safe and very dependable car to own.
It's a very smooth and comfortable ride. I would prefer if it had backup cameras. It's a very safe car. I love that it's an SUV as well.
accountCircle Ella B
Love that Toyota Rav4 reliability!
This is a fantastic vehicle! I live in the city and it's very easy to parallel park. I drive 17 miles to work every day on busy highways and it handles beautifully. I take it on cross country trips and it's always reliable. There have been no mechanical issues other than wear and tear. Toyota has created a reliable SUV that helps me transport goods, park in the city and use for long trips. I'm looking forward to owning this SUV for at least 10 years and will repurchase another because I'm so pleased.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Catherine L
Rav4, a rusty pile of trash
My car is filled with rust. It has engine issues, the passenger window fell out, I've spent more than what the car is work fixing it. The AC doesn't work, driving it is terrifying. I would recommend this car to no-one. It's a gas guzzler, but the rust is what gets me.
accountCircle Stacey C
Not my ideal car with two boys and one on the way.
Not very roomy, very basic, nothing special about this vehicle. Wears out tires quickly. Isn't very fuel efficient. Doesn't have a great get up and go quality. It's better for older people. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone with more than 2 children. The only perk to this vehicle is, It has a lot of cup holders.
accountCircle Maegan B
Bugs and issues with cruise control.
Since I first bought my vehicle it has had issues. I am the only person who has driven this vehicle. I put the first few miles in my vehicle in test driving. I cannot have my cruise control just turned on without using it. I have had issues where the cruise control will randomly set itself, and never to a low speed. I have been driving through a town and it randomly set itself at 70 mph and takes off, and pressing on the break does not work immediately. My reverse does not always go into gear right off the bat and jumps sometimes. Other than those two things it has been a great vehicle. But, I will not be purchasing another one.
accountCircle Laura J
Reliable but older car, pros and cons, my view.
The rav4 is an amazing vehicle. The issues that I have with the model I drive is that the seat does not go back far enough for my husband to drive. He has longer legs. I have short legs and the seat is all the way back and it is perfect for me. The other issue I have is that my vehicle is the base model with light color interior and cloth seats. Hard to keep clean on the farm in the spring and fall. This option of car does not have the controls for the radio on the steering wheel and there is no Bluetooth option for the phone, so no hands free. It most likely needs to be updated but I runs great and miles are low so we will keep driving it. Looking forward to the future when we upgrade with all the new amenities they have now in the cars.
accountCircle Sean T
Interior space and what to expect when you purchase a rav4.
Too small for family, c- handling, minimal horsepower, unable to use middle seat in the back row with a car seat on each side. Cup holders are set to a specific width living in what you can put in there but also if it is too small flops around and falls out spilling everywhere.
accountCircle Bradi L
Holds up great over time - with some issues.
The car was great as a first-time driver. Driving was initially easy and smooth, but over time it has become shaky and rough. I have had issues with the ac system as it will stop working for days at a time, then randomly start working again. Furthermore, the vents in the backseat haven't worked in years and the back often gets unbearably hot. However, the car has lasted me a long time, and it has generally held up great.
accountCircle Samalantha H
Roll-over risk. You can't drive fast safely with this car.
It always feels like to vehicle is going to tip over going any speed over 35. You feel every bump in the road, and hear it. Lots of head and leg room. Lots of airbags.
accountCircle joanne d
Works ok for maine winters, not great. Nice car to commute in as good on gas and rides well enough. Good resale value
Wish i had purchased car with leather seats. The upholstery gets d***y with 2 dogs

What Problems Does the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Have?

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 has fewer problems than other compact SUVs on the market, and is a great choice. There are a lower number of complaints than the newer 2013 model.

Peeling paint is the most common problem, according to owners. Paint peels when curing fails at the factory. The only solution is to repaint the affected panels, costing up to $1,000 depending on local labor rates.

Surging from the engine when stopping is another issue. There are several causes including vacuum leaks, or software issues. Repair prices vary depending on the source of the problem, costing about $100 up to $550.

Oil leaking from the rear shock absorber is also a frequent problem. When a shock leaks there’s usually a failed seal in the assembly. Replacing the shock assembly is the only solution, costing around $300.

There are 6 recalls, which is average for an SUV from 2012. The recalls include occupant sensing system calibration, load carrying labels, brake actuator assembly, electric drive system, windshield wipers, and seat belt webbing. All are serious, affecting the reliability and safety of the vehicle and should be addressed by a Toyota dealership.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 falls in the middle of the compact SUV class based on price with a range of $11,695 to $15,724, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $22,650 to $28,650. Depreciation is slower than average, dropping about 35% in value over the first 5 years.

  • Base is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, cruise control, power accessories, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with USB and AUX ports.
  • Sport is next in the lineup and has 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded cloth seating, a sportier suspension, fog lights, and automatic headlights.
  • Limited is the flagship choice with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, keyless ignition, and a touchscreen navigation system with EnTune app integration.
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How Long Will the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Last?

A properly cared for 2012 Toyota RAV4 will last about 300,000 miles, which is longer than other compact SUVs. Ownership costs including regular annual maintenance, are affordable compared to the competition. Repair Pal estimates them to be $439 per year.

accountCircle Natalie G

Yes. I feel safe driving it in rainy weather. The brakes have only had to be replaced a few times but I used the car for traveling daily (employment). I feel safe transporting my daughter.

accountCircle Katie C

Yes, very reliable. The only issues I have had is gas mileage- it does not get great mileage because it is a large vehicle. The Bluetooth technology also has troubles at times.

accountCircle Cecibel V

This vehicle has not given any problems. This has not had any major problems just the regular normal wear and tare.

accountCircle Hester A

It is very reliable. With regular maintenance and upkeep it is never had a problem. It is very good for the winter driving that we experience.

accountCircle Dan M

No not that I have experienced. It handles well is reliable. Always starts and is comfortable. I feel confident using it and haven't worried about its reliability al all.

accountCircle Ashley R

Very reliable. Never had any major issues. We get oil changed and tires rotated on a regular basis and our Toyota runs great!

accountCircle Steph J

The 2012 Toyota Rav4 has No problems at all. It is very reliable and rides well. Has good gas mileage and I love the cargo room and interior

accountCircle Emily P

Very reliable. I've never had any problems or issues. It has good performance at higher altitudes and good acceleration.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is decent in the 2012 RAV4 compared to other compact SUVs, but is not class-leading.

  • Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as 6 speakers.
  • Upgrades include a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with EnTune app integration.
  • Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, air bags, hill-start, stability, and traction control systems.

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What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is great in the 2012 RAV4, and is one of the only compact SUVs available with a V6 engine. With the upgraded engine the RAV4 goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.2 seconds.

  • The base engine is a 2.5L 4 cylinder with 179 horsepower.
  • An upgraded 3.5L V6 is available on the Sport and Limited models and has 269 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the RAV4?

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV and is similar in size to the competition, but offers an optional third row of seating on the Limited model. Passenger space is very good in the first and second rows, but legroom is cramped for adults in the third. Cargo room is good for the class with 12.3 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 36.4 behind the second, and 73 cubic feet with all the seats folded flat. There’s enough room to easily fit 5 people and all of their luggage.

Centered wide dash shot

How Does the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Compare to Other SUVs?

Ranking 3rd out of 23 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is near the top of the class.

A close competitor is the Honda CR-V, which is in the same price range. Reliability ratings and standard features are very similar between the two. Where the CR-V stands out is with higher safety scores. The RAV4 on the other hand, offers more passenger room. Choosing between the two SUVs is difficult since they are both very similar and are great choices for shoppers.

Another competitor is the more affordable Ford Escape. Where the Escape comes out ahead is with better technology, and a nicer interior. The RAV4 has better reliability ratings, lower ownership costs, and a more comfortable cabin. Overall, the RAV4 is a better choice since there are fewer problems and the Toyota will last longer.

Ranks #3 Compact SUV by Owners

1
car
4.67
2
car
4.52
3
car
4.51

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Toyota RAV4 a Good SUV?

Yes, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is a good SUV based on information including 579 verified owner reviews, and information from 18 government and automotive websites. The positives of the RAV4 include class-leading reliability, and an optional V6 engine with great power. Some downsides are cramped seating in the third row, and the base technology is not as nice as some competitors. Overall, the 2012 RAV4 is an SUV we recommend to buyers.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle John P on June 25, 2021
My 2012 toyota rav4; a great small suv that I would buy again.
I got this rav4 used; its a 2012 that I got in 2015. In that time I have only had one problem, which was a power window mechanism that broke (this was a very expensive fix). Other than that I have had no problems. The rear-mounted, full sized spare is a great bonus; it gives me lots of extra cargo space.
accountCircle Tina W on June 24, 2021
Plenty of space for vacationing.
I am very happy with my vehicle. It performs well. It runs smoothly. It is comfortable. There is plenty of legroom in the back for comfort while traveling on vacation. There is plenty of storage space in the back. The spare tire is located on the back of the back door so there is added space in the back of the vehicle for additional storage.
accountCircle Mack H on June 21, 2021
2012 Toyota rav4 best comfort car for cheap.
My 2012 Toyota rav4 is the best car for travel. I have driven it from state to state and it is comfortable to drive. The only problem I have is the gas mileage (22.3 mpg) is not very good for travel if you are tight on money. I had to fill up three times to make it 750 miles. Other than that it has plenty of space. I fit everything I needed for college in the back with room to spare. The car runs very smoothly and is great for distance traveling in the comfort area.
accountCircle Sarah E on June 17, 2021
Toyotas are great and they will run forever if you take good care of them.
This vehicle runs very well and is very reliable. It has enough room for 5 passengers, although the back seat is a little tight for 3 people sitting there - and only if they are not big people. The navigational system (which is also the radio) has had some issues which have had to be fixed, but that has been the biggest problem with it so far.
accountCircle Karen M on June 16, 2021
Toyota rav4 is a good car to buy.
It is very reliable and haven't encountered any problems so far. I have traveled a lot and performs really well. It has Bluetooth connection, USB connection, 1 one-touch power windows, and 6 total speakers. It is very comfortable and has capacity to seat 5 people.
accountCircle Maja P on June 1, 2021
You can take or make phone calls.
There are problems with the lights that tell you when something is wrong with the car. It is not my favorite in how it drives but I have been driving it for a while now I love it anyway. I like the Bluetooth connection as well as the way the seats sit with the windows. I also like the amount of space.
accountCircle Sarah A on May 31, 2021
This is a great family car, is super reliable, and will not disappoint.
The rav4 is essentially a really dependable and durable car. If anyone is looking to purchase a great family car that will last a good amount of time a great recommendation is this car. It does not have the smoothest ride but is extremely reliable. The only issues that have recently started up after 10 years of ownership of the vehicle is the breaks that have been changed recently. The car has also sometimes had trouble starting up in the colder seasons for reasons that are unknown to me but it may just be my specific car and not applicable to other vehicles of the same year and model. Otherwise I have no complaints and understand why this car is one of the most common in my suburban area. The next best rav4 would be the 2020 model which has peaked my interest because of how great my experience has been growing up with the model my family currently relies on.
accountCircle Leila H on May 25, 2021
I have never had to worry about my family while driving in this vehicle.
I love my rav4, it has been a great reliable car. This is an ideal car for both city life and offroading trips. It performs well on road trips and it has plenty of storage space for luggage and supplies. I have taken it on camping trips and it has always handled very well even on bumpy terrain. I would highly anyone to purchase a rav4.
accountCircle Shane R on May 22, 2021
My Toyota rav4 is a reliable, high profile, safe vehicle for my family.
My Toyota rav4 is a no frills, AWD, vehicle transport to get my family from place to place; plenty of space and great for road trips. Other than routine maintenance, the following have been unexpectedly replaced: battery, radiator hose, passenger seat belt system.
accountCircle Colby L on May 17, 2021
The Toyota rav4 has an amazing feel while driving as it is a super smooth car.
The Toyota rav4 is a great car. It has decent miles per gallon at around 20 in city driving and 30 on the highway. It is great for road trips because of it great cargo space. It is also a very smooth driving car with great steering and handling. And if you like listening to your music or the radio then it has a great sound system.
accountCircle Andrew R on May 16, 2021
A decent car, but especially good for its price range.
A few months ago I needed to get the brake pads replaced, but the car's been used pretty regularly for years, so that seemed to be more of a wear thing than an issue with the car itself. Not many other issues besides that. The car is comfortable enough and though it does not have many features, it more than makes up for it with its price range and reliability.
accountCircle Kathleen M on May 15, 2021
Safe, reliable and comfortable for traveling.
I have had few problems with this auto. It has been extremely reliable. I personally enjoy the fact that I have all the room needed to travel comfortably with or without my grandchildren. And safety has given peace of mind. The only regret I have is that I did not get 4 wheel drive. I initially thought I would be moving to the southwest and wouldn't need it.
accountCircle Karie H on May 14, 2021
Great car outweighs miner problems gets great gas mileage, and reliable car.
Overall for my Toyota rav4 2012, I really do enjoy it. Few things that are a problem, music to load for passenger s even on lower settings, not much cooler when a/c is on for passengers. Heat does take a little longer but not as warm as it should be. Rides comfortable, enough room for additional passengers, only problem how the middle seat belt on passengers does not fit right my or seem safe. Finally keeping the upholstery, seats etc I stained and clean just does not happen, nothing cleans it well even had it detailed. Overall, I believe it is a safe reliable and gets great gas mileage car.
accountCircle Heidi O on May 9, 2021
Awesome reliable vehicle!
Love the reliability of my vehicle, as I have had minimal to no issues - I do have routine maintenance performed but have had no major issues. It is a very comfortable vehicle even for long trips. I love the versatility with the back seats having the availability to fold down for increased trunk space. However, even without folding down seats the trunk space has plenty of room and has a under floor compartment for even more storage space. As with most older molder Toyota vehicles, I do not have the latest and greatest features - no in dash, XM radio, lane alert, etc. It does have everything on my checklist as far as features are concerned - heated seats, leather, sunroof, good gas mileage, and trunk space. Overall I would highly recommend and absolutely love my car!
accountCircle Candyce C on May 3, 2021
Great all around car and it does not disappoint.
Love my rav4 just wish it was a v6. Great car, easy ride. Great storage and very comfortable to ride in. Haven't had any big issues with it. When it is time to get a new car I will definitely look into the newer models. I am very happy with my car and have very little complaints.
accountCircle Abbie C on April 27, 2021
Great first car and never had a problem.
I like this car a lot. Never had any issues and it is never randomly broken or had problems. Overall a solid car. I wish it told me how many miles I had until empty. Interior is a little outdated but it is 8 years old. Overall, great car. I could drive it for many more years.
accountCircle kacie C on April 16, 2021
This cars grill is super sturdy and the clearance is great.
It's getting a little old and starting to breakdown, but the clearance is amazing and has had a long life and has done me well. Its withstood animals and other rough roads. The tires last forever and the car has been able to get through anything and I have never run out of gas because the reserves are great.
accountCircle Gerard S on April 6, 2021
Rav4 comfortable and reliable.
The Toyota rav4 is an extremely dependable vehicle. I have owned several of these vehicles over the years and have had no major repairs needed. The rav4 is a comfortable vehicle to drive and gets excellent gas mileage for a midsize SUV. As a family we have owned four of these vehicles and will definitely look into purchasing another one when the time comes. Toyota in general has been an excellent company for vehicle dependability.
accountCircle Penny G on April 2, 2021
Price is decent for functionality.
Like: lowered rear cargo loading, Toyota reputation/longevity, options package (heated leather seats, rear camera in mirror, Bluetooth, Sirius radio, moonroof, etc.). Dislike: location of side mirror adjustment, rear cargo door opens from left side, could be a more luxurious feeling ride but has the short wheel base but still not too bad.
accountCircle Patty M on April 2, 2021
They are a very nice handling care with lots of storage available.
It has a lot of storage room. It's the best handling vehicle I've ever driven. It's very good on fuel consumption/mpg. I don't like that the 4WD is automatic and can't be engaged manually.
accountCircle Ramona V on March 31, 2021
Toyota it is comfy and cozy.
The paint has chipped off after 4 years of wear I had called Toyota and now it is 2020 they finally have recalled the paint but not fixed it yet I love this SUV. It is reliable comfortable roomy and performs well gas mileage is good as well. I will purchase another Toyota.
accountCircle Rachel B on March 31, 2021
2012 Toyota rav4 comes with extra storage space even though it is a basic model.
A few recalls with airbags and other engine fixes, but overall a super reliable vehicle. With the spare tire on the outside of the truck, there is extra hidden storage space in the trunk. The base model still has a CD player and allows for an aux cable to connect a phone or other music device. There is no navigation built in to the 2012 model, but there is in the newer versions.
accountCircle Tara W on March 29, 2021
Great car, want better gas mileage.
It is sturdy, safe, good storage. I like that it is higher up from the ground than a sedan. I do not like the gas mileage is only in the low 20's. I also like it has needed less repairs than other cars I have had. I would like my car to last for many years if looked after.
accountCircle Annie Y on March 28, 2021
Toyota RAV4: perfect for smaller families.
My car is 6 years old without any significant problems. I went from a Camry to a RAV4 so I really like having a SUV. It handles so much better in the snow having AWD. I like having the fold down seats for extra storage when transporting large items.
accountCircle Alexis H on March 28, 2021
4-wheel drive 2012 Toyota RAV4.
My 2012 Toyota RAV4 is great! It drives great, has seats for five people, and seems to be very reliable. It has a great stereo system, a sunroof, and a four roll able windows, which makes it great for college driving. It has four wheel drive, which makes it great for driving in snow and rain, especially on steep surfaces. It is a great car to have living in the Appalachian mountains.
accountCircle Nicole B on March 25, 2021
They don't make the V6 RAV4 anymore but it is a powerful, quick little SUV.
V6, very peppy with fantastic pick up getting on the highway. Super reliable despite transversing the North East US and having over 200,000 miles. JUST encountered my first major repair due to wear and that was my water pump. It was bound to happen though. Aside from that I have never put a dime into it aside from oil, brakes, and tires. Beautiful, spacious interior. Sound system great.
accountCircle Miranda Y on March 24, 2021
RAV4 is worth it and it doesn't even have to be fancy
It's very reliable. I've had no mechanical issues in the 7 years I've owned it. Great on gas mileage. Very comfortable seating and plenty of room for storage. The rear spare tire is easily removed in case of a flat tire. The sunroof is a great small addition also. The paint has held up wonderfully and there is virtually no rust anywhere on my car. I really have a lot of faith in the Toyota company because I have been so pleased with my car.
accountCircle Anita G on March 23, 2021
Has a lot of miles, but runs great(so far).
Runs great-plenty of room-no mechanical problems so far-good on gas-nice color-nice interior-good radio.
accountCircle Jeanette E on March 23, 2021
Great stable safe drive vehicle.
I really like my rav. I literally have no complaints. It drive very good, steady speed and is able to accelerate and decelerate with ease. The seats are very supportive. I broke my tailbone last year and it was very painful, but I never really felt any pain while driving, because the seat was so supportive.
accountCircle Thomas B on March 22, 2021
It is very dependable and a excellent vehicle to drive
It is a safe and dependable vehicle. It get good gas mileage and is fun to drive. The only thing I do not like is the back door on the suv.
accountCircle Tracy L on March 22, 2021
Lots of room and just the right size
Rav4 has so much room inside. It is great on trips, and also not too large for around town doing everyday errands. Have not had any extra expense on the car other than regular oil changes and regular maintenance. It also does great on gas mileage. It is a great SUV.
accountCircle Adriana G on March 21, 2021
The heated seats and bluetooth connection are great.
Very reliable. I have only had to keep up with maintenance repairs. My vehicle has about 96,000 miles and the gas mileage is great. I have changed the tires once and they're still good. The labor is pretty high because I have the v6 engine but I love the power. I am also a huge fan of the leather seats and heated seats. I recently had a baby and it is perfect for her car seat stroller and I still have extra room.
accountCircle Angela B on March 20, 2021
The vehicle is a good size. It is comfy and spacious.
I get motion sickness a lot in this car. I feel every little bump and every short stop and it makes my head hurt. I wish there was a little more resistance. The inside of the car is nice and spacious. I like the seats and they are comfortable. There is a lot of trunk space which I really like.
accountCircle Kathy V on March 20, 2021
Reliable, dependable, comfortable.
I love my Toyota rav4. It is perfect for me; I can get plenty of cargo hauled around, I can get all three of my dogs into the back. I also travel for work and I find this vehicle very reliable. I bought this brand new in 2012 and have not had any issues with this car at all. I always tell people that I love my rav and I recommend Toyotas to everyone!
accountCircle Michele O on March 19, 2021
Toyota rav4 the roomy small SUV.
I really like the Toyota rav because it gets really good gas mileage. I absolutely love the sunroof power doors power windows lots of room in the back that is three good-sized people very easy with lots of room. Gets great gas mileage does not cost an arm and a leg to put gas in it.
accountCircle Lin C on March 18, 2021
Distance driver and carrier.
The car is big enough to carry a lot of stuff especially for sport lovers. The car can also take long distance drives. It can take wears and tears and still function just fine. There are different colors and they match the shape of the car relatively well.
accountCircle BillieJo A on March 15, 2021
Great on gas, we use it for all of our road trips for the gas mileage
I love the overall performance, comfort, luxuries, and great on gas. Love my heated leather seats. I love how smooth it drives
accountCircle Dianne J on March 14, 2021
Toyota rav4 is a great urban suburban vehicle. Efficient gas usage.
I have had no problems at all with my Toyota 2012 rav4. The performance is great especially in the cold, icy and snowy weather. The traction is fabulous. I have had no start up or battery issues. The ac and heat are great. The vehicle runs smooth on the road in winter or summer. The seating is comfortable and the seats adjust nicely. Love the electric windows and sunroof and I also like that the navy is accurate as well as the integration with Bluetooth and audio calling. Super great vehicle.
accountCircle Kris K on March 12, 2021
4 wheel drive, ac,sunroof, stow go cargo storage.
I've owned Toyotas for 20 years. I love the reliability.Toyotas get great gas Mileage, they barely ever break down, and retain value. So you get more when you trade it in. I previously owned a Camry.I switched to a rav4. We get rough winters. The rav 4 has higher ground clearance and four wheel drive which is better for the snow driving.
accountCircle Wendy C on March 12, 2021
So far it has been very reliable. It is comfortable car to drive. It has a nice sleek design and a room trunk.
It feels very safe to drive and so far we have had no major issues with it.
accountCircle Kathy W on March 11, 2021
Basic but nice rav4. Pretty and comfortable.
Red with grey leather heated seats. We had the leather put in and had front seats heated about two years ago. Heat makes it easy to travel long distances. Automatic. Good mileage. Easy driving. Roomy. Not many problems. Bought in December of 2012. Preferred it over the 2013 models.
accountCircle Bradi L on March 9, 2021
Great for first-time drivers!
I love my car because it has served me well for 8 years now! It was a great first car - safe, functional, optimal for learning to drive. My only complaints are regarding the notifications of the maintenance required light. It has gone off multiple times and whenever I take it into the shop, I am always told that nothing is wrong. I have gotten my oil changed and had a state inspection with no issues, but the maintenance light stays on. Nonetheless, I love my car!!
accountCircle Marcia G on March 9, 2021
Great vehicle that works well.
It drives well, you can see better in the dark, the rear view mirror stops the lights from shining in your car. I love the color and style it works well in bad weather because it has all wheel drive. The gas mile is not as good as I would like but it has a lot of power. It has a v6 engine.
accountCircle linda b on March 9, 2021
Little maintenance and good on gas. Plus it is a nice looking car with lots of room inside.
It is good on gas. It never needs much car repair. Interior is comfortable. Looks sharp.
accountCircle Megan L on March 8, 2021
Lacking in comfort but reliable.
Reliability great. Comfort not good in this sport edition for long trips. Good gas mileage and great run flat tires. Car has never broken down in 3 years of continuous road trips.
accountCircle Olivia B on March 6, 2021
Reliable and comfortable rav4.
I think that the gas mileage on my car is not the best which is really my only concern. I find myself constantly having to fill my tank because I spend a lot of my time driving. My car is very reliable though I have never had an serious issues with it and it is getting older. The comfort in the car is great. It is spacious and I feel that the seats have good lumbar support.
accountCircle Julie H on March 6, 2021
Lighter weight, smaller, less hardy 4runner.
Steady, reliable, comfortable. Good line of sight. Easy to maneuver. Goes in all weather. Love the back door that opens like a door. Great cargo space, I wish the front seats were a little more comfortable and heated for winter, but I bought the car used. Love the full size spare, one of the last years the car came with that.
accountCircle Shane C on March 4, 2021
My car has heated seats, back up camera, awesome sound system.
I own a 2012 Toyota rav4. It is an excellent car. It's wonderful in the snow and the features are awesome.
accountCircle Carol C on March 4, 2021
Large cargo area for small SUV
Very reliable. Not to large. Drives beautifully and very smooth drive. Not a lot of fancy gadgets on base model but has everything necessary. Wish it would have backup cameras because I feel that it is a very good safety feature. Has great speakers and Bluetooth. All gadgets within arms reach. Heat is exceptional on this SUV. Heats whole car within minutes of starting vehicle in coldest weather. Cooling is also is very good. Had 1 recall on seat belt closure which was handled quickly and professionally.
accountCircle Susan F on March 3, 2021
Toyota Rav4, Roomy and Safe
This is a vehicle that is excellent for a couple with grown children. We can take our dog to the vet in it's roomy interior. There is plenty of space to fit four adults and a child safety seat for family members to travel together. It is well heated for winter cold with a safe feel to it on snow ridden roads that aren't plowed yet. So far it has been low maintenance with scheduled oil changes and periodic checks. We are pleased with the vehicle.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.