Everyone’s favorite crossover, the Toyota RAV4, is back with a fresh new styling, updated interior, and an all-new SE Hybrid grade for 2022 MY!
Coincidentally, the launch of the new RAV4 falls on the same day that the first-gen launched in the US 25 years ago. Back in the 90s, sedans were the most popular choice of cars globally. However, the big and bulky world of SUVs started gaining traction for its utility, off-roading capabilities, and road presence.
Still, at the time, most of the full-sized SUVs struggled with fuel efficiency and ease of driving. On that note, the Japanese manufacturer understood the needs of the consumers and came up with the RAV4 in 1996 (Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel-drive). It combined the tall-boy SUV styling in a compact structure with the promise of improved fuel economy, similar to Toyota’s saloons.
As a result, the RAV4 has been the best-selling crossover in the US for quite some time, racking up sales of 313,447 units until Q3 this year. It even became the best-selling car in the US (non-truck) and worldwide in the last few years.
The latest 2022 RAV4 update carries forward the core philosophy of its predecessors, albeit with some subtle changes. Starting with the exterior, the crossover’s front fascia retains the familiar and striking appearance of the triple grille (intake, radiator, and hood). However, Toyota now utilized edgier full LED headlamps, air curtains with paper-thin DRL slots, and a rugged bumper with chrome accents.
The 2022 RAV4 also gets a fresh coat of Cavalry Blue paint on the new SE Hybrid, XSE (with a black roof), and the TRD off-road. Other grades, such as the LE Hybrid, XLE, XLE Hybrid, and the Adventure, receive further customization with new wheels and colors.
In an already comprehensive list of variants for the RAV4, the 2022 edition brings in a new SE Hybrid trim. The SE sits below the XSE and the Hybrid. As part of the standard package, it comes with mono-tone paint, fabric upholstery, and a 7-inch infotainment system with 6-speakers in total.
Customers can further opt for a weather package, which entails a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and rain-sensing wipers with de-icing functionalities. You could also go down the convenience route and get a moonroof, height-adjustable power liftgate, and an Audio Plus system with JBL speakers and a larger 9-inch display.
Other notable additions include LED fog lamps for the XLE Premium, Limited, Adventure, and TRD Off-Road, Illuminated interior switches for XLE and above, and an 8-way power-adjustable passenger seat.
The 2022 RAV4 will continue with the same Dynamic Force 2.5-liter i4 engine producing 203 hp with an average economy of 30 MPG in the base models. Power goes to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox and a versatile 4WD system.
Furthermore, the hybrid variant employs two electric motors to boost up the output to 219 hp. However, if you want more power and efficiency, there is the flagship Prime plug-in hybrid. It uses a tri-motor system to raise the bar to an impressive 302 hp, enough for a 0-60 mph time of just 5.4 seconds. The RAV4 Prime also provides a 42-mile electric-only range via its 18.1-kWh battery.
Despite its subtle changes, the 2022 RAV4 once again emerges to be one of the favorites in the crossover market. Expect Toyota to come onboard with pricing by the end of this year!
Gallery: 2022 Toyota RAV4
