The Toyota RAV4 retains its position as America’s best-selling compact SUV owing to its roomy and well-built cabin, ample cargo capacity, advanced safety features, and three efficient powertrains – petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Besides various powertrains, Toyota makes sure the SUV is equally capable for both city surfers and off-road enthusiasts. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 TRD Offroad grade is an ideal option for those looking to hit the beaten path more often. We will specifically discuss the RAV4 TRD Offroad trim in this post and compare it with other variants in the range.
Related – Toyota Small SUV Lineup
Exterior
While Toyota didn’t make significant changes in the 2022 model year, the RAV4 designers tried to make sure each trim level had its own unique identity. A keen eye can find exclusive exterior elements for each grade. Unlike LE and XLE with 17-inch wheels and other variants with 19-inch alloys, the TRD Off-Road sports 18-inch matte-black alloys.
Similarly, instead of the black hexagon-patterned grille we find on the LE, XLE, and XLE Premium, the 2022 Toyota RAV 4 TRD Offroad has a split bar front upper grille. With the same wheelbase of 105.9 inches for all variants, the RAV4 TRD slightly varies in length, width, height, and ground clearance compared to others in the range.
Apart from the standard color choices, buyers can opt for some exclusive paint combinations for the RAV4 TRD, including a dual-tone shade for an extra $500. The accessible options for the TRD are Cavalry Blue and Magnetic Grey, both having an Ice Edge roof.
RAV4 TRD’s Performance and Fuel Economy Tested
All gasoline RAV4 models employ a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 203 horsepower @ 6600 rpm and 184 lb-ft of torque @ 5000 rpm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. However, unlike most trim levels in the lineup with FWD, the 2022 RAV4 TRD Offroad comes with a standard all-wheel-drive layout.
Handling and Performance
Since Toyota prioritized off-roading for the TRD variant, the engineers installed smaller 18-inch wheels with Falken All-Terrain tires, a multi-terrain select system, a tougher TRD-tuned suspension, front skid plate, and all-wheel-drive to tackle uneven terrains. However, it doesn’t mean the TRD is less capable on the tarmac. It is equally equipped for roads with light, electrically assisted steering and lightweight brakes.
Regarding the TRD’s performance, it is not much different from the other gasoline variants in the range. Toyota claims the 0 to 60 mph run in 8.0 seconds for gas-powered trims, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid models deliver better performance.
That said, the new Toyota RAV4 TRD Offroad is capable of towing more weight than any other model in the range. Compared to 1,500 lbs of FWD models, 1,750 lbs of hybrids, and 2,500 lbs of plug-in hybrids, the TRD can haul 3,500 lbs.
Fuel Efficiency
You can expect the RAV4 TRD Offroad to be the least fuel-efficient in the lot due to its all-wheel drivetrain. The EPA-estimated economy for FWD models stands at 27/35/30 mpg, while the TRD Off-Road returns 25/32/28 mpg.
Logically, the hybrids are less thirsty of all in the range, with hybrids delivering 41/38/40 mpg and plug-in hybrids returning 38 mpg combined and 94 MPGe.
Packages for 2022 RAV4 TRD Offroad
You can add extra features and packages for the TRD Off-Road, including:
- Advanced Technology Package, $1950
- Premium audio, $1620
- TRD Off-Road Weather package, $1015
- Running board, $549
- Door sill protector, $199
- Door edge guard, $140
- Mudguard, $129
- Blackout emblem overlays, $65
Please note that the Technology Package comprises a heated steering wheel, heated/ventilated front seats, front/rear park assist, wireless charging, etc.
