UPDATED: January 18, 2019: 2019 RAV4 Hybrid Pricing Released
New York, NY – This muscular, aggressively-styled RAV4 is unlike anything we would have expected when the covers came off at its 2018 New Auto Show debut – and that’s a good thing for this fifth-generation model that’s been anything but bold since it first debuted back in 1994. Frankly, it is worlds apart from the outgoing 2017 model.
Increased 2019 RAV4 Dimensions
Compared to the previous generation RAV4 model we reviewed here, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 saw an increase in overall length and wheelbase, making it slightly larger. The new version is approximately 2.4 inches longer, with a wheelbase extended by about an inch, resulting in more interior space and improved legroom for passengers.
Additionally, its ground clearance was raised to 8.4 inches, enhancing its off-road capability and providing a more commanding presence on the road. These changes contributed to a more spacious and versatile SUV, appealing to a broader range of drivers.
| Dimension | 2019 Toyota RAV4 | 2018 Toyota RAV4 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 180.9 inches (4,595 mm) | 183.5 inches (4,662 mm) | -2.6 inches (-67 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 inches (2,690 mm) | 104.7 inches (2,659 mm) | +1.2 inches (+31 mm) |
| Width | 73.0 inches (1,854 mm) | 72.6 inches (1,844 mm) | +0.4 inches (+10 mm) |
| Height | 67.0 inches (1,702 mm) | 67.1 inches (1,704 mm) | -0.1 inches (-2 mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 inches (213 mm) | 6.1 inches (155 mm) | +2.3 inches (+58 mm) |
| Cargo Capacity (Rear Seats Up) | 37.5 cubic feet (1,062L) | 38.4 cubic feet (1,088L) | -0.9 cubic feet (-26L) |
| Cargo Capacity (Rear Seats Folded) | 69.8 cubic feet (1,976L) | 73.4 cubic feet (2,078L) | -3.6 cubic feet (-102L) |
New Engine with More Power, Improved Fuel Economy
More in line with the Subaru Forester, from what we can see, the redesigned 2019 RAV4 finds a new 2.5L Inline-4 and Toyota hybrid system powertrains offering more power and better fuel efficiencies, according to Toyota.
| Specification | 2019 Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder engine |
| Horsepower | 203 horsepower |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic transmission |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) or All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | Approximately 8.2 seconds (FWD) or 8.4 seconds (AWD) |
| Top Speed | Approximately 125 mph |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Approximately 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway (FWD) or 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (AWD) |
Considering this is the Japanese automaker’s number one selling product, a proper redesign was long (long) overdue – and it appears the company listened to the market and what consumers have been yearning for more adventure-seeker, less vanilla compact offering.
The new chiseled RAV4 with available 19-inch wheels sports a more robust nose, leading to a more dynamic profile with bolder shoulders.
Looks aside, we expect it to handle off-road duties; the RAV4’s sits on a new TNGA platform, allowing for a lower, more comprehensive package, while the shorter front and rear overhangs will
aid in RAV4’s ability to conquer the back trails with ease.
Here’s our full 2019 Toyota RAV4 Limited Review.
