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How big is the trunk of a Toyota RAV4?

Across the current RAV4 lineup, you can expect about 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to about 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime offers roughly 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and about 63.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. These figures vary slightly by trim and configuration, but they capture the typical trunk size you’ll encounter.

Understanding the cargo space numbers

Trunk space, or cargo volume, is usually measured as the volume available behind the second row of seats with the rear seats in use, and the expanded space when those seats are folded flat. The numbers cited here come from Toyota’s official specifications and EPA-style measurements that exclude the front passenger area. Real-world space can be affected by floor height, underfloor storage, and how the seats are configured for passengers and cargo.

Cargo space by model and configuration

Below are the published cargo volumes for current RAV4 variants, reflecting space behind the rear seats and with the rear seats folded. These figures assume standard trim configurations without optional cargo enhancements.

Gas-powered Toyota RAV4: Behind rear seats — 37.6 cu ft; With rear seats folded — 69.8 cu ft

RAV4 Hybrid: Behind rear seats — 37.6 cu ft; With rear seats folded — 69.8 cu ft

RAV4 Prime (plug-in hybrid): Behind rear seats — 33.5 cu ft; With rear seats folded — 63.2 cu ft

In practice, the gas and hybrid models offer the same core cargo capacity behind the second row, with substantial gains when folding the seats. The Prime’s larger battery footprint reduces available space behind the seats but still provides a roomy cargo area when the rear seats are folded for longer items.

Practical considerations for maximizing trunk space

To maximize usefulness, take advantage of the 60/40 split rear seats that allow a combination of passenger seating and long-item storage. The cargo floor height remains relatively low, aiding loading of large suitcases or boxes, and underfloor compartments help keep smaller items organized. If you regularly carry long gear, consider the configuration that leaves one portion of the rear seat available for a passenger while still accommodating lengthwise cargo.

Summary

The Toyota RAV4 offers solid cargo space across its lineup. Gas and Hybrid variants provide about 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and roughly 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, while the RAV4 Prime delivers about 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and around 63.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. For buyers prioritizing cargo flexibility, the standard 60/40 split and flat-folding rear seats are key features that maximize usable space, especially when transporting larger or longer items.

What is the lawsuit against the Toyota RAV4?

The Toyota Liftgate Hinge lawsuit centers on allegations of defective power liftgate hinges in 2014–2021 Toyota RAV4 models. Plaintiffs claim the hinges lack the strength needed to handle the liftgate's weight and force during operation, leading to premature failure.

What's the most common problem with a Toyota RAV4?

Common problems with the Toyota RAV4 include issues with the automatic transmission in older models, engine oil consumption in some four-cylinder engines, and various electrical faults like infotainment screen freezes or 12-volt battery drains. Additionally, recent models have seen reports of hybrid floor wire corrosion, and some specific model years have experienced issues like front suspension arm cracks, faulty fuel pumps, or liftgate hinge failures.
This video discusses common problems with the Toyota RAV4, including transmission, engine, and electrical issues: 52sFuel ForceYouTube · Nov 16, 2024
Common problems by category
This video explains how to avoid common mistakes when driving a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which can affect its performance and efficiency: 56sToyota WorldYouTube · Jul 3, 2025
Transmission

Older models: Rough or jerky shifting due to a computer-transmission communication issue.
Higher mileage: Rough shifting, delayed engagement, and grinding noises in 8-speed automatic transmissions.
Other issues: Faulty solenoids that prevent the transmission from engaging certain gears.

Engine

Oil consumption: Some four-cylinder engines are known to burn excessive oil, requiring more frequent top-offs.
Stalling: Intermittent stalling or rough running, sometimes linked to fuel system problems.
Fuel pump failure: Diagnostic codes like P0171 (System Too Lean) often point to a failing fuel pump, which can cause stalling and disengage the all-wheel drive.
Coolant bypass valve defect: Some models may experience overheating and stalling due to a faulty bypass valve.

Electrical

Infotainment system: Frozen screens and other malfunctions are reported.
Battery drain: Unexpected draining of the 12-volt battery, sometimes requiring firmware or hardware updates.
Sensor faults: Sporadic sensor issues have been noted.
Lane-assist malfunction: Some vehicles experience unexpected swerving or jerking due to faulty lane-assist systems.

Other issues

Brake squeal: Light-to-moderate brake squeal has been reported on some recent model years.
Suspension: Older models have had rear suspension hardware issues that can affect alignment.
Hybrid floor wire corrosion: Some hybrid models have a problem with the wiring harness under the floor corroding, which can cause radio issues and requires replacement.
Fuel tank: Certain models have a defect where the fuel pump clicks off early, preventing the tank from filling completely.
Liftgate hinge: Lawsuits have been filed regarding premature failure of power liftgate hinges on some 2014–2021 models.

You can watch this video to see what goes wrong with used Toyota RAV4s: 56sEveryman DriverYouTube · Jun 9, 2025

What are the dimensions of the back of the RAV4?

RAV4 Cargo Dimensions
Cargo volume: 69.8 cubic feet. Cargo length (behind rear seat): 40 inches. Cargo width (minimum/maximum): 39.4 inches/59 inches. Cargo height (minimum/maximum): 34.5 inches/36.6 inches.

How much luggage can you fit in a Toyota RAV4?

The Toyota RAV4 has a luggage capacity of 37.5 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats for gas and hybrid models. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo space expands to 69.8 cubic feet. For plug-in hybrid models, the space is slightly smaller at 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Configuration	Capacity (gas/hybrid)	Capacity (plug-in hybrid)
Seats Up	37.5–37.6 cu. ft.	33.5 cu. ft.
Seats Folded	69.8 cu. ft.	63.2 cu. ft.

60/40 split rear seats: This allows you to fold down one or both rear seats to accommodate longer items while still carrying passengers.
Hands-free power liftgate: Available on some models, this feature allows you to open the liftgate by waving your foot under the rear bumper (with the Smart Key nearby).
Versatile storage: The space is large enough for daily needs like groceries, strollers, and luggage for a road trip, and the ability to fold the seats makes it suitable for larger items like sports equipment.

57sHow much can fit in the boot of a Toyota RAV4? #shortsYouTubeHorizons by RAC · 2mo 1:062024 RAV4 Cargo SpaceYouTubeToyota of Greensboro · 1y 30s2026 Toyota RAV4 Interior & Cargo SpaceYouTubeMicah Muzio · 4w (function(){
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Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.