2017 Toyota RAV4
Pros
- Quiet demeanor on the road makes it a pleasant commuter vehicle
- Rides smoothly in a variety of conditions
- Plenty of cargo space for its size
- High-tech safety features come standard
Cons
- Modest acceleration from the sole engine offering
- Fewer easily accessible storage compartments than most competitors
2017 Toyota RAV4 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which RAV4 does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
3.5 / 5The RAV4 was modestly refreshed in 2016 with updated exterior styling and redesigned cabin, but it hasn't been fundamentally changed under the skin since it was introduced in 2013. The segment has heated up in recent years, though, and the RAV4's well-rounded middle-of-the-road-ness has left an opening for the competition. There are sportier or equally versatile choices that offer better fuel economy, but there isn't one single compact crossover that tops all the charts, so the RAV4 is still very competitive.
2017 Toyota RAV4 configurations
The RAV4 comes in LE, XLE, SE, Limited and Platinum trim levels. All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and all are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (176 horsepower, 172 pound-feet of torque) and a six-speed automatic transmission. Accordingly, the decision on which trim level is right for you comes down to creature comforts rather than mechanical fortitude.
The LE has a decent array of standard equipment, but most shoppers will want to set their sights on the XLE and up. The XLE grants you dual-zone climate control, improved seat contours, the enhanced Entune multimedia system and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
The SE is purportedly the sport-tuned version, though in our experience the handling difference is not significant. In the bargain, the SE comes with different exterior trim, LED headlights and premium vinyl upholstery.
Limited models add 18-inch wheels, navigation and driver-seat memory functions, while the range-topping Platinum trim level (new for 2017) provides yet more amenities and unique trim.
Trim tested
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current RAV4 has received some revisions, including a cabin and styling refresh for 2016, additional features, and the addition of the Hybrid variant and SE and Platinum trim levels. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's RAV4.
Driving
3.5Acceleration
3.0Braking
3.0Steering
3.0Handling
3.5Drivability
3.0Off-road
3.0Comfort
4.0Seat comfort
4.0Ride comfort
3.0Noise & vibration
4.5Interior
4.0Ease of use
3.5Getting in/getting out
4.0Roominess
3.0Visibility
3.5Quality
3.5Utility
Small-item storage
Cargo space
4.5Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2017 Toyota RAV4.
Most helpful consumer reviews
2017 Toyota RAV4 video
JOSH SADLIER: This is automotive editor Josh Sadlier with an Edmunds Expert Rundown of the 2017 Toyota RAV4. The current RAV4 debuted back in 2013. And ordinarily, that would be a strike against it. But with the refresh for 2016, Toyota actually brought this vehicle back to competitive status in the class. We still miss the V6 from the previous generation RAV4. So there's just one engine in this one. It's a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Gets the job done, but it's not going to blow your socks off. So if you're looking for extra performance, you're going to have to look elsewhere in the segment. Overall, though, the RAV4 rides comfortably. Spacious interior. Up to date features, including an additional suite of safety features that come standard for 2017. It's one to watch in this class. In the back seat, the RAV4 has plenty of room for adults. Certainly, no shortage in that regard. You'll notice that there's no third row seat, however, and that's another missing aspect from the previous generation RAV4. So this is strictly a two-row crossover. Nonetheless, plenty of space within those constraints. Dashboard design's a little adventurous, by Toyota's standards at least-- touchscreen infotainment in the center, dual zone automatic climate control, and even a sporty steering wheel. The bottom line if you're shopping for a compact crossover is this segment is chock-full of interesting alternatives. So we would recommend shopping around before you decide on the Toyota. Most notably, the Honda CR-V is all new. And that's the traditional rival for the RAV4. So both of those, at least, before you buy. For more Edmunds Expert Rundowns, click the link to subscribe.
2017 Toyota RAV4 Expert Rundown Review
Looking for a compact crossover SUV with plenty of cargo space? The 2017 Toyota RAV4 might be a good fit. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite RAV4 safety features:
- Pre-Collision System
- Detects and attempts to avoid front collisions by applying the brakes to assist the driver and reduce the speed of impact.
- Lane Departure Alert
- Alerts the driver when it detects that the car is deviating close to lane markings.
- Intelligent High Beam
- Automatically turns the high beams on or off depending on whether it detects oncoming traffic.
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It's easy to see why the 2017 Toyota RAV4 is a popular choice among those shopping for a compact SUV. It simply delivers everything expected from full-time family transportation, including a comfortable ride, strong fuel economy, plenty of cargo space, an abundance of safety features, ease of operation, and a good reputation for reliability.
This segment in the marketplace is highly competitive, however. That's why the RAV4 has been significantly upgraded for 2017. Now standard on all models is Safety Sense, Toyota's suite of advanced safety features that includes an adaptive cruise control system that is either an expensive option on the RAV4's rivals or not offered at all. There's also a new top-of-the-line Platinum trim that adds luxury and convenience features typically found on more expensive vehicles.
These additions should help the 2017 Toyota RAV4 hold a slight advantage over other B-rated alternatives in its class such as the Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and Kia Sportage. The Toyota is also more competitive against the class-leading Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5, both of which earned strong Edmunds "A"-ratings.
Powertrains and Performance
Powering all 2017 Toyota RAV4 models is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, and it's matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available at additional cost.
In Edmunds testing, an all-wheel-drive Toyota RAV4 accelerated to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds, which is comparable to other small SUVs in this class.
The EPA estimates fuel economy at 25 mpg combined (23 city/29 highway) for the front-wheel-drive RAV4 and 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway) with all-wheel drive. These figures come in just below EPA estimates for its chief rivals.
Safety
Standard safety features for all 2017 Toyota RAV4 models include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, a driver knee-type airbag, a rearview camera, and a driver mirror with a blind-spot view. New for this year, the Toyota Safety Sense suite is also standard and adds forward collision warning and mitigation, automatic high beams, and lane keep assist. A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system are available on higher-trimmed RAV4s.
In Edmunds brake testing, a RAV4 Limited AWD stopped from 60 mph in 128 feet, which is a few feet longer than average.
In government crash tests, the RAV4 was awarded five out of five stars for overall and side-crash protection, as well as four stars for front-impact and rollover protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named it a Top Safety Pick+, with the top score of Good in the small- and moderate- overlap front-impact, side-impact, roof strength and head restraint (whiplash protection) tests. The RAV4 also earned a Superior rating for front crash avoidance and mitigation.
Additional Information
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 keeps up the model's tradition as a practical choice for consumers shopping in the highly competitive compact SUV market segment. The refreshed RAV4 offers improved ride and handling, enhanced styling and an upgraded interior. As always, there is the choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, seating for five, a generous amount of cargo room and Toyota's reputation for reliability.
Probably the biggest change for 2017 is the standard Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes a host of advanced safety equipment such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning with automatic braking. Also new for this model year is the luxury-oriented Platinum trim level with comfort and convenience features such as a foot-activated power liftgate and a premium JBL audio system.
Power for all RAV4 models, except the Hybrid, is provided by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque and comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters now standard on the SE trim level. Performance, although adequate for most family needs, is not particularly outstanding compared to many of its rivals, but the transmission's Sport mode, with revised shift points and improved acceleration, can provide a bit more spirited driving.
One of the RAV4's strong suits, in addition to reliability, is interior space. There's a generous amount of room for front passengers, and the cargo area — easily expandable and configurable with a 60/40-split rear seatback — makes it easy to load and transport as much or more stuff than its competitors. The backseats, though not as roomy as those in front, do recline to increase comfort.
As with previous versions of the RAV4, the 2017 model is capable and easy to drive, with a well-tuned, compliant suspension and smooth, quiet highway manners. Although not really equipped for hard-core offroading, Toyota's compact SUV remains composed on unpaved roads, and the available all-wheel drive provides additional confidence in wet or snowy conditions.
The front-wheel-drive RAV4 achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg in combined driving (23 city/29 highway), and the all-wheel-drive model is also rated at a combined 25 mpg (22 city/28 highway). These ratings, although respectable, place the RAV4 a bit behind its major competitors in the area of fuel economy.
The base model RAV4 is the already well-equipped LE trim level. Stepping up to the XLE or Limited version adds a number of useful and convenient features, and opting for the top-of-the-line Premium trim offers buyers even more comfort and luxury. Let Edmunds help find the perfect 2017 Toyota RAV4 for you.
2017 Toyota RAV4 Overview
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is offered in the following submodels: RAV4 SUV. Available styles include LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), XLE 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A), LE 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A), XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Platinum 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Limited 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A), Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), and SE 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A).
What do people think of the 2017 Toyota RAV4?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 RAV4 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 RAV4.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 RAV4 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Edmunds Scorecard
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2017 Toyota RAV4?
2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,991. The average price paid for a new 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $1,634 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,634 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$36,357.
The average savings for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is4.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2017 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $34,953. The average price paid for a new 2017 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $4,287 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,287 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$30,666.
The average savings for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is12.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 4 2017 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2017 Toyota RAV4 XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $28,234. The average price paid for a new 2017 Toyota RAV4 XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $200 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $200 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$28,034.
The average savings for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is0.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Toyota RAV4 XLE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2017 Toyota RAV4 LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $27,652. The average price paid for a new 2017 Toyota RAV4 LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $3,802 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,802 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$23,850.
The average savings for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is13.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Toyota RAV4 LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2017 Toyota RAV4s are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Toyota RAV4 for sale near. There are currently 25 new 2017 RAV4s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $27,347 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Toyota RAV4. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,308 on a used or CPO 2017 RAV4 available from a dealership near you.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2017 Toyota RAV4?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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2017 Toyota RAV4 Information
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- 2017 Toyota RAV4 Consumer Reviews
- 2017 Toyota RAV4 Features & Specs
- 2017 Toyota RAV4 Pictures
- 2017 Toyota RAV4 Review
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- 2017 Toyota RAV4 Used For Sale Near Me
- 2017 Toyota RAV4 Ownership Costs