I test drove a RAV4 and was not impressed

I took a RAV4 for a test drive since I’m thinking about getting a new car. My current car is a Skoda, and honestly, I wasn’t blown away by the RAV4.

The biggest issues for me were the road noise and the interior. At around 100-110 km/h on wet roads, it was loud—too loud for my taste. I just can’t imagine taking it on a long drive. And the interior? It felt really basic compared to my Skoda, which almost feels luxurious in comparison.

Now, don’t get me wrong. The RAV4’s powertrain, acceleration, and other key features are solid, but I expected a lot more given how hyped this car is. Am I missing something, or is this just not the car for me?

You might want to look at a Lexus instead. It’s quieter and has a more premium feel.

This is why cars like the Venza (before it was discontinued) and the Lexus NX exist. The RAV4 is meant to be a practical, no-frills vehicle, but the Venza and NX are aimed at folks looking for something more comfortable and upscale.

@Chao
I always thought the Venza was underrated. It’s a great option if you want something more refined without jumping to Lexus.

Galen said:
@Chao
I always thought the Venza was underrated. It’s a great option if you want something more refined without jumping to Lexus.

Completely agree. The latest Venza looks so much better than its overly styled cousin, the NX. My only gripe is the placement of the rear blinker lights on the bumper.

@Evans
Same here. Honestly, sometimes I feel like Lexus is trolling us with some of their designs. That’s why I’ve been looking at Toyota models again. Even the first-gen Venza was nicely done. I might grab a used one for my stepdaughter.

@Chao
I absolutely love my 2024 Venza Limited. It’s such a smooth ride.

RoadWarriorX said:
@Chao
I absolutely love my 2024 Venza Limited. It’s such a smooth ride.

I’ve got the 2023 Nightshade, and it’s been fantastic for road trips. Smooth drive, decent power, and super comfortable. My only complaint is the stock tires.

@Chao
Yeah, the tires aren’t great, but I’ve been doing okay in the snow with them. I’m glad I chose the Venza over the RAV4 Hybrid XSE. Too bad it’s been replaced by the pricier Crown Signia.

I got used to the road noise. After a while, it just blends into the background.

You really need to go for a higher trim if you want the RAV4 to feel quieter and more refined. I test-drove a base model and hated it, but once I upgraded to a higher trim, it was much better. That said, an entry-level Lexus isn’t much better than a high-trim Toyota. You really need to go mid to high trim for Lexus to be worth it.

I rented one for a few days and was blown away by the fuel economy. I drove 165 miles and only used about 2.5 gallons of gas. Great car if you’re looking at it mechanically.

Dustin said:
I rented one for a few days and was blown away by the fuel economy. I drove 165 miles and only used about 2.5 gallons of gas. Great car if you’re looking at it mechanically.

Yeah, no complaints about the mechanics. It’s just the noise and interior that threw me off.

@StellarToyota
Fair enough. I drive a 4Runner, so maybe I’m just used to a noisier ride!

Toyota isn’t known for being super quiet inside. I had a Ford Fusion before, and it was much quieter, but I got tired of constant repairs. I switched to a Camry, and while it’s reliable, I wish it was quieter.

If you can wait, the next-gen RAV4 should be coming soon. It looks great based on spy photos, and I’m sure Toyota will address some of the current model’s issues. My pet peeve with the RAV4 is the small door openings—they make it harder to get in and out.

@JeffPatterson
Don’t buy a first-year model. Wait until the bugs are worked out—usually around year three.

Ridge said:
@JeffPatterson
Don’t buy a first-year model. Wait until the bugs are worked out—usually around year three.

Unless it’s a Toyota, right? They’re usually pretty reliable even in the first year.

@StellarToyota
Not always. The 2019 RAV4 had issues with water leaks, a rough transmission, and rattles. Even Toyota isn’t perfect in the first year.

The RAV4 is overdue for a redesign. Competitors like the Forester, CX-5, and CR-V are quieter and just as reliable.