2021 Toyota RAV4 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The Toyota RAV4 is a charismatic two-row SUV that embodies quality and style. With an impressive combination of spacious interiors, durable engines, and advanced technology features, the RAV4 has something for everyone - from smooth city streets to off-road adventures! This vehicle can truly handle any terrain with confidence – adding versatility into your daily drive no matter where adventure takes you.

What's New for 2021?

Going back a few years, the RAV4 has been through a lot of changes. In 2019, the RAV4 got a new design, and for 2020, there were some modifications made to the trim lineup. For 2021, Toyota has left the RAV4 mostly untouched. In terms of the exterior, people now get a new color choice, which is Blizzard Pearl. This replaces Super White, though most people would have a hard time telling the two apart. More notably, there's the addition of the RAV4 Prime - a plug-in hybrid. Plus, there's a new trim, which is the Hybrid XLE Premium.

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Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Toyota RAV4 – The Pros

1. Something for Everyone

Whether you're seeking a sleek and sporty ride or an all-terrain, off-road explorer - the 2021 Toyota RAV4 has it all. With six distinct trims to choose from: LE, XSE, TRD Off Road Adventure and XLE; plus two plug in hybrid models for those looking for ecofriendly motoring – this car truly offers something unique to suit every taste. So no matter what your individual preferences may be – allow yourself never compromise with the versatile and dependable performance of the prized RAV4.

2. A Competitive Price

The Toyota RAV4 is the budget-friendly car of choice for thrifty shoppers, offering an LE trim at a wallet-pleasing price point starting from just $26,000! If you're searching for practicality and affordability in equal measure then it may be time to consider this brilliant model; many savvy buyers have already discovered its great benefits.

3. Quality Components Under the Hood

Every RAV4 is equipped with a powerful 2.5-liter engine, producing over 200 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque - impressive towing capabilities up to 1,500 pounds on most trims and 3,500 pounds on the Adventure or TRD Off-Road editions! For those wanting an extra kick in performance: hybrid versions provide even more capability than non hybrids thanks to their gas/electric combinations reaching totals of 219 hp as well as 302 for the RAV4 Prime model.

4. Goes Far on a Single Tank

The RAV4 Prime packs a powerful punch when it comes to fuel efficiency, allowing drivers the ability to use solely electric power for up to 42 miles. With its estimated MPGe of 94 and hybrid models earning up to 41 MPG on highways, this SUV is sure keep your wallet happy without sacrificing performance. And while they don't quite measure-up in terms of efficiency as their counterparts, non-hybrid versions still provide an impressive highway mileage rate of 35 MPG combined with 27 mpg city driving capabilities - making every journey efficient yet enjoyable.

5. Rugged Good Looks

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 gives off a sleek, athletic vibe with its muscular exterior design. Sizing options for 17, 18, and 19-inch wheels ensure personalization to fit the driver's desired look. LEDs placed in fog lights, taillights, daytime running lights and headlights increase visibility on the road while two-tone trims add extra visual appeal during rides around town or countryside excursions. Special badging further elevates this already impressive model year of the iconic Toyota RAV4 SUV.

6. Take Advantage of All-Wheel Drive

When the roads are anything but ideal, Toyota's RAV4 has you covered with their full range of all-wheel drive options. Traditional models come equipped with Multi-Terrain Select for various terrains like Mud & Sand, Snow and Rock & Dirt to maximize your handling performance when offroading. Hybrids feature Electronic On-Demand AWD while top trims boast Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (TV-AWD) that not only offer improved traction via individual wheel distribution of torque but also includes a rear driveline disconnect system - allowing drivers greater control in any conditions while optimizing fuel efficiency too.

7. Advanced Infotainment System

Every RAV4 has a touchscreen that measures at least seven inches. Mid-level trims may have the option to upgrade to an eight-inch touchscreen, a component that's standard on the highest trims. Along with the touchscreen, drivers have access to Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. It's a bonus that SiriusXM is also standard because satellite radio opens up a lot of entertainment channels. On select higher trims, there could be navigation, a JBL speaker system, and wireless charging.

8. Modern Safety Elements

All RAV4s are built with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. This package consists of various driver-assist technologies that can give people a lot of peace of mind as they head out onto the roads and face unpredictable situations. Monitors are ready to alert drivers about potential frontal collisions, vehicles in their blind spots, and vehicles crossing behind them while they're in reverse. If appropriate given the circumstances, the SUV could gently correct steering, turn on the high beams, adjust its speed, or hit the brakes, all in an effort to keep people safe.

9. Designed for Busy People

Toyota has imagined a RAV4 driver to be someone with a lot going on. To help those type of people, the company has put in a lot of convenient amenities. The RAV4 can come with a power outlet so devices can be charged while on the road, and there's an available hands-free power liftgate. This type of liftgate can be opened with the kick of one's foot underneath the sensor at the tail end of the SUV. It's handy for those times when someone has their hands full.

10. Comfortable Cabin

While the lower trims of the Toyota SUV have fabric seats, the higher trims have a SofTex material on their seats. SofTex is a lightweight synthetic leather that's soft and durable. Leather can be found on the steering wheel and shift lever, and the front seats can be heated and ventilated to help compensate for warm or cool weather.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Toyota RAV4 – The Cons

1. Base Option is Limited

The LE is the most affordable trim. It has the same engine as the other models, so consumers won't be sacrificing anything in this area when going with the LE. However, they could find themselves stuck with certain components. Analog gauges, a manually controlled climate system, and a manually adjustable driver's seat are some examples of features that won't make anyone jealous.

2. Outdated technology

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a reliable and dependable vehicle, however its technology assets may not compare with more modern models. If you are looking for the latest in infotainment systems, driver assistance features or connectivity options that rival those of newer vehicles then this model might not be your ideal choice. Consider researching into other alternatives such as larger touchscreens or V2X communication which could provide improved safety and traffic flow capabilities to enhance your driving experience while keeping up-to-date on tech trends making their mark throughout the automotive industry today.

3. Stiff ride and engine noise

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers a responsive and agile ride, with some drivers reporting engine noise under hard acceleration or on steep inclines. A firmer suspension system has been applied to enhance performance without compromising comfort; however, rough roads may present increased vibrations for those who take extended trips in the vehicle. Ultimately, it's best to experience driving the 2021 RAV4 firsthand before making your purchase decision – that way you can determine whether this car is right for you.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Honda CR-V

For 2021, Honda has made several hybrid trims of the CR-V. This means that the Honda and the Toyota will initially attract attention from a lot of the same consumers. Upon further examination, though, there will be many who favor the RAV4 over the CR-V because of its capability. The hybrid RAV4 has a lot more kick than the hybrid CR-V does, just like the non-hybrid RAV4 outshines the CR-V in both horsepower and towing capacity.

2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee

The Toyota RAV4 is the clear winner for drivers looking to explore, seek adventure and conserve fuel. With a host of hybrid trims boasting superior efficiency to its rival, the Cherokee; additional interior space; elevated horsepower over base models, plus an enviable level of ruggedness - why choose anything else?

Final Thoughts

Toyota has always been a leader in the automotive space, and their RAV4 is no exception. Renowned for its top-tier safety features and technology, plus plenty of capability on offer, shoppers have long sought out this reliable vehicle. And now with hybrid options available along with exemplary efficiency ratings - it's easy to understand why all trims of the RAV4 are garnering so much attention from experts and consumers alike.