Which used Toyota RAV4 should you buy?

The original Toyota RAV4 was a revelation on its debut – an all-wheel-drive car that was a credible option for buyers after a nicely-rounded family car. In the years since, the Toyota RAV4 has evolved into a larger, more refined and more mature SUV.

The most affordable versions now are the Toyota RAV4 Icon models, although we reckon the Toyota RAV4 Design models are worth considering over them if they’re within your budget. They have a few more driver aids and creature comforts, and also offer all-wheel drive. 

Toyota RAV4 self-charging hybrids use a large 2.5-litre petrol engine, and are fairly efficient by big family SUV standards.  In comparison with the regular hybrid models, the plug-in hybrid versions have a bigger battery, so can drive longer distances on electric power alone.

However, the plug-in Toyota RAV4s tend to be on the pricey side and only really make sense if you can regularly charge up the battery. If that’s not the case for you, the regular Toyota RAV4 hybrid will be more suitable.

Read our full Toyota RAV4 review

What used Toyota RAV4 trim levels are available?

There’s a decent choice, but Toyota RAV4 Excel models tend to be among the most popular on the used market, as they come with useful extras such as heated front seats and leather upholstery.

This is the version we’d particularly recommend.

Toyota RAV4 Icon

The entry-level Toyota RAV4 Icon models came reasonably equipped as standard. But if you want an all-wheel drive variant, avoid these, as they were only available with front-wheel drive.

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Front foglights
• Automatic windscreen wipers
• Digital radio
• Digital instrument display
• Rear parking sensors
• Reversing camera
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning

Toyota RAV4 Design

Toyota RAV4 Design models fleshed out the spec sheet with extra kit, detailed below. This is also the de-facto entry-level trim for the all-wheel-drive models.

• Keyless entry
• Powered tailgate
• Front parking sensors
• Built-in sat-nav

Toyota RAV4 Excel

Toyota RAV4 Excel models feel a bit plusher inside. Plus, on the safety front, there’s a warning system that alerts the driver of oncoming traffic when they’re reversing out of a parking spot.

• Leather upholstery
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Front heated seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Blind-spot monitoring

Toyota RAV4 Dynamic

The Toyota RAV4 Dynamic models were based on the Toyota RAV4 Excel variants, so both versions share the same technology and features. However, Toyota RAV4 Dynamic models do bring to the table a few unique cosmetic touches, including those listed below:

• Two-tone paint
• Black interior headlining
• Sporty front seats

Toyota RAV4 Adventure

If you’d prefer a more rugged-looking SUV, the Toyota RAV4 Adventure models will be the way to go. These didn’t come with many mechanical upgrades over the Toyota RAV4 Dynamic models, but did at least look the part with some appealing additions.

• Wheelarch extensions
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• New skid plates

Is a used Toyota RAV4 a good buy?

While it’s not the most exciting car in this class to drive, the Toyota RAV4 offers a comfortable and refined behind-the-wheel experience, which bodes well for buyers after an easy-going family car.

Factor in Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low running costs courtesy of the hybrid-only engine range, and the Toyota RAV4 makes a good case for itself as a used buy.