The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact SUVs in the market, offering a perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance. As with any vehicle, it has its strengths and weaknesses, which are crucial to consider for potential buyers. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of the 2021 RAV4, providing you with a detailed and informative guide to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to the 2021 Toyota RAV4
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a fifth-generation model that has undergone significant changes and improvements compared to its predecessors. It features a more aggressive exterior design, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a range of advanced safety features. The RAV4 is available in several trim levels, including the LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, and Limited, each offering unique features and options.
Exterior and Interior Design
The 2021 RAV4 boasts a sleek and modern exterior design, with a bold front grille, sharp lines, and a sloping roofline. The interior is equally impressive, with a spacious and comfortable cabin that can accommodate up to five passengers. The RAV4 offers a range of premium materials, including leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic moonroof. The interior is also equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a 9-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Performance and Handling
The 2021 RAV4 is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The RAV4 also features a range of drive modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, which allow drivers to customize their driving experience. The RAV4 also offers a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
Pros of the 2021 Toyota RAV4
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 has several pros that make it an attractive option for potential buyers. Some of the key advantages of the RAV4 include:
The RAV4 offers a range of benefits, including a spacious and comfortable interior, a smooth and responsive driving experience, and a range of advanced safety features. The RAV4 also offers excellent fuel economy, with an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the RAV4 has a reputation for being reliable and durable, with a low cost of ownership and maintenance.
Fuel Economy and Reliability
The 2021 RAV4 is known for its excellent fuel economy, with an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 also has a reputation for being reliable and durable, with a low cost of ownership and maintenance. The RAV4 has a predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, according to J.D. Power. This means that the RAV4 is less likely to experience mechanical issues or require costly repairs.
Advanced Safety Features
The 2021 RAV4 offers a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. The RAV4 also features a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The RAV4 also offers a range of standard safety features, including electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags.
Cons of the 2021 Toyota RAV4
While the 2021 Toyota RAV4 has several pros, it also has some cons that potential buyers should be aware of. Some of the key disadvantages of the RAV4 include:
The RAV4 has a few drawbacks, including a noisy engine, a firm ride, and limited cargo space. The RAV4 also has a higher starting price compared to some of its competitors, with a starting MSRP of around $26,000. Additionally, the RAV4’s infotainment system can be slow to respond and has limited features compared to some other vehicles in its class.
Engine Noise and Ride Quality
The 2021 RAV4 has a noisy engine, particularly when accelerating or decelerating. The RAV4 also has a firm ride, which can be uncomfortable on rough roads or when driving over potholes. The RAV4’s suspension can also be prone to bouncing or jigging, particularly when driving on uneven surfaces.
Infotainment System and Cargo Space
The 2021 RAV4’s infotainment system can be slow to respond and has limited features compared to some other vehicles in its class. The RAV4 also has limited cargo space, with only 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. The RAV4’s cargo space can also be affected by the presence of a spare tire, which can take up valuable space in the cargo area.
Comparison to Other Vehicles in its Class
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is one of several compact SUVs available in the market, and it competes with other popular models such as the Honda CR-V, the Subaru Forester, and the Mazda CX-5. The RAV4 has several advantages over its competitors, including its spacious and comfortable interior, its smooth and responsive driving experience, and its range of advanced safety features. However, the RAV4 also has some disadvantages, including its noisy engine, firm ride, and limited cargo space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded and feature-packed compact SUV that offers a range of benefits for potential buyers. While it has some drawbacks, including a noisy engine and limited cargo space, the RAV4’s advantages, including its spacious and comfortable interior, smooth and responsive driving experience, and range of advanced safety features, make it a compelling option for those in the market for a reliable and durable vehicle. Ultimately, the decision to purchase a 2021 Toyota RAV4 will depend on your individual needs and preferences, and we recommend test-driving the vehicle to get a sense of its pros and cons firsthand.
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP | Features |
|---|---|---|
| LE | $26,000 | 17-inch steel wheels, cloth seats, 7-inch touchscreen display |
| XLE | $27,000 | 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed seats, 8-inch touchscreen display |
| XLE Premium | $29,000 | 19-inch alloy wheels, panoramic moonroof, heated steering wheel |
| Adventure | $33,000 | 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rack, towing package |
| Limited | $35,000 | 19-inch alloy wheels, premium audio system, 360-degree camera system |
As shown in the table above, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is available in several trim levels, each offering unique features and options. The LE trim is the base model, while the Limited trim is the top-of-the-line model. The XLE and XLE Premium trims offer a range of features, including leather-trimmed seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a heated steering wheel. The Adventure trim is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, with features such as a roof rack and a towing package.
What are the key features of the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that boasts an impressive array of features, making it a top contender in its class. On the outside, the RAV4 features a sleek and modern design, with a bold front grille, LED headlights, and a range of vibrant exterior colors to choose from. Inside, the vehicle is equipped with a spacious and comfortable cabin, featuring premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. The RAV4 also offers ample cargo space, with up to 37.6 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
In terms of safety, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features, including a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The vehicle also features a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. With its impressive combination of style, comfort, and safety, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice for families, commuters, and adventure-seekers alike. Whether you’re navigating city streets or hitting the open road, the RAV4 is sure to deliver a smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free driving experience.
How does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 perform in terms of fuel efficiency?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a fuel-efficient vehicle, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, depending on the trim level and drivetrain. The front-wheel drive (FWD) model is the most fuel-efficient, while the all-wheel drive (AWD) model still manages an impressive 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 also features a range of innovative technologies, including a dynamic torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system, which helps to optimize fuel efficiency and improve overall performance. Additionally, the vehicle’s aerodynamic design and lightweight materials help to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel economy.
In real-world driving conditions, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 has been shown to deliver excellent fuel efficiency, with many owners reporting average fuel economy of 30 mpg or more. The vehicle’s fuel-efficient performance is due in part to its advanced 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, which produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. With its impressive combination of power and fuel efficiency, the RAV4 is an excellent choice for commuters and road trippers alike. Whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway, the RAV4 is sure to deliver a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience.
What are the different trim levels available for the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is available in a range of trim levels, each offering a unique combination of features, options, and price points. The base LE trim is the most affordable option, with a starting MSRP of around $26,000. The LE trim features a range of standard amenities, including a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of safety features. The XLE trim adds more premium features, including a power liftgate, blind spot monitoring, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The XSE trim is a sportier option, with a unique exterior design, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a more aggressive suspension.
The Limited trim is the top-of-the-line option, with a range of luxury features, including a panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium JBL audio system. The TRD Off-Road trim is a more rugged option, with a unique exterior design, all-terrain tires, and a range of off-road features. The Hybrid trim is a fuel-efficient option, with a hybrid powertrain that delivers an estimated 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. With its range of trim levels, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles.
How does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 compare to its competitors in terms of pricing?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is competitively priced, with a starting MSRP of around $26,000 for the base LE trim. This makes it one of the more affordable options in its class, with many competitors starting at $28,000 or more. The Honda CR-V, for example, starts at around $28,000, while the Subaru Forester starts at around $25,000. The RAV4’s pricing is also competitive with the Nissan Rogue, which starts at around $26,000. However, it’s worth noting that the RAV4’s higher trim levels, such as the Limited and TRD Off-Road, can get quite pricey, with starting MSRPs of over $35,000.
Despite its competitive pricing, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers a range of features and options that many of its competitors can’t match. The vehicle’s advanced safety features, for example, are some of the best in its class, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The RAV4 also offers a more spacious and comfortable interior, with ample cargo room and a range of premium materials. With its impressive combination of features, options, and pricing, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent value in the compact SUV segment.
What are the pros and cons of the 2021 Toyota RAV4’s interior design?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4’s interior design is a major strength, with a spacious and comfortable cabin that features premium materials and a range of modern amenities. The vehicle’s seats are particularly noteworthy, with ample legroom and adjustability, as well as heating and ventilation options on higher trim levels. The RAV4’s cargo area is also impressive, with up to 37.6 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. However, some critics have noted that the RAV4’s interior design can feel a bit bland and uninspired, with too much plastic and not enough premium materials.
Despite this, the 2021 Toyota RAV4’s interior design is still a major improvement over previous models, with a more modern and streamlined look that emphasizes functionality and practicality. The vehicle’s infotainment system, for example, is one of the best in its class, with a large touchscreen display and a range of intuitive controls. The RAV4 also features a range of clever storage solutions, including a large center console and a range of cupholders and tray tables. With its impressive combination of space, comfort, and amenities, the 2021 Toyota RAV4’s interior design is sure to please even the most discerning drivers.
How does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 handle on the road?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a smooth and comfortable handler, with a range of advanced technologies that help to optimize its performance and stability. The vehicle’s dynamic torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system, for example, helps to improve traction and cornering ability, while its adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning features help to reduce driver fatigue and improve safety. The RAV4 also features a range of drive modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, which allow drivers to customize its performance and handling to suit their preferences.
On the road, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a pleasure to drive, with a smooth and quiet ride that absorbs bumps and irregularities with ease. The vehicle’s steering is also noteworthy, with a precise and responsive feel that makes it easy to navigate tight corners and winding roads. The RAV4’s braking performance is also impressive, with a firm and confident pedal that inspires trust and confidence. With its impressive combination of comfort, handling, and performance, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice for drivers who value a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
What are the maintenance and repair costs for the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is known for its reliability and durability, with a range of advanced technologies and materials that help to minimize maintenance and repair costs. According to Toyota, the RAV4’s maintenance costs are estimated to be around $341 per year, which is lower than many of its competitors. The vehicle’s repair costs are also relatively low, with an estimated 5-year cost of around $1,500. The RAV4 also features a range of warranty options, including a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
In terms of maintenance, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 requires regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements, which can be performed at a Toyota dealership or by a qualified mechanic. The vehicle’s advanced safety features, such as its adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, also require regular software updates and calibration to ensure optimal performance. With its impressive reliability and durability, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice for drivers who value a low-maintenance and hassle-free ownership experience. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, RAV4 owners can enjoy years of trouble-free driving and minimize their maintenance and repair costs.