What are the changes for the 2021 RAV4?
The 2021 RAV4 is largely a carryover from the 2020 redesign, with a focus on refining safety, connectivity, and trim-level equipment rather than a full redesign. The big story is incremental improvements rather than a new look or powertrain overhaul.
In 2021, Toyota aimed to make the RAV4 more appealing through enhanced driver assistance tech, upgraded infotainment, and small refinements across trims, while the core gasoline and hybrid powertrains remained unchanged from the previous year.
Here are the notable changes you’ll notice for 2021 across the RAV4 lineup.
- Expanded safety technology: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 became standard on more trims, adding features such as improved pre-collision with pedestrian detection, coordinated lane-keeping aids, and other advanced driver assists.
- Increased connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto continued to be emphasized, with more trims offering standard integration and a refined infotainment experience, along with available Wi‑Fi hotspot and wireless charging on select models.
- Trim refinements and equipment tweaks: Several trims received elevated features and interior materials choices, with minor adjustments to standard equipment and option packages to improve comfort and convenience.
- Powertrain unchanged: There were no mechanical changes to the gasoline 2.5-liter engine or the hybrid powertrain; horsepower and torque figures remained in line with the 2020 model year, preserving the RAV4’s established balance of performance and efficiency.
- Pricing and availability: Prices rose modestly in some configurations due to the added safety and tech features, with the model year continuing to offer a broad mix of trims for families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
In summary, the 2021 RAV4’s updates are largely incremental, centering on safety enhancements, smarter connectivity, and streamlined packaging rather than a major redesign.
Details by area
Safety and driver-assist tech
For 2021, Toyota pushed Safety Sense 2.0 further into the lineup, with most trims adopting the suite as standard equipment. The system typically includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Full-speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
These enhancements are designed to improve awareness and mitigation in everyday driving, with hybrid variants benefiting from the same safety backbone as the gasoline models.
Infotainment and connectivity
The 2021 RAV4 continued to emphasize smartphone integration and online connectivity. Key points include:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto becoming standard across more trims
- 7- or 8-inch touchscreen options depending on trim, with higher trims often offering a larger display and enhanced graphics
- Available or standard Wi‑Fi hotspot and wireless charging on select models
The goal was a more seamless and intuitive user experience, with easier access to apps, navigation, and music while on the go.
Trims and interior features
While the overall mechanical layout stayed the same, Toyota made iterative adjustments to trims and interior feel. Highlights include:
- Refined interior materials and trim choices on several grades
- Small feature upgrades on mid- to top-range trims, such as upgraded upholstery or accent options
- Continued availability of popular options like panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and upgraded audio systems on higher trims
These tweaks aimed to enhance comfort and perceived value without overhauling the model lineup.
Powertrains and fuel efficiency
No changes were made to the core powerplants for 2021. Buyers could choose between:
- Gasoline-only RAV4 with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission
- RAV4 Hybrid combining the same 2.5-liter engine with electric motors for higher efficiency
Performance figures remained in line with the 2020 model year, with the hybrid offering stronger combined output and improved efficiency relative to the gasoline model.
Pricing and availability
Pricing for 2021 reflected the added standard safety and connectivity features, with a modest increase from some 2020 configurations. The RAV4 continued to be offered in a wide range of trims to suit different budgets and needs, including rugged, family-friendly, and luxury-oriented options.
Summary
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 stands out for its refined safety and connectivity upgrades rather than any dramatic redesign. If you’re upgrading from a 2020 model or considering a RAV4 for the first time, the 2021 version offers more standard driver-assist tech, easier smartphone integration, and small but meaningful enhancements across trims, all while preserving the model’s core efficiency and versatility.
How much should I pay for a 2021 RAV4?
2021 Toyota RAV4 Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| LE Sport Utility 4D | $28,925 | $21,929 |
| XLE Sport Utility 4D | $30,220 | $24,030 |
| XLE Premium Sport Utility 4D | $32,925 | $25,833 |
| Adventure Sport Utility 4D | $34,630 | $27,216 |
Are there any issues with the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
Common issues with the 2021 Toyota RAV4 include problems with the infotainment system, uncomfortable seats, noise from the engine and road, and in the Prime model, issues with the charging port and battery connections. Other reported problems include transmission hesitations, leaks (water, exhaust), and issues with the airbags.
Common issues by category
You can watch this video to learn about the 7 most common problems with the Toyota RAV4: 53sFuel ForceYouTube · Nov 16, 2024
- Interior and comfort:
- Uncomfortable driver's seat with poor lumbar support
- Noisy cabin at higher speeds
- Powertrain and performance:
- Transmission issues, including hesitation or lurching
- Weak engine performance and lack of power, especially on hills
- Excessive oil consumption
- Water pump leaks
- Electronics and technology:
- Infotainment system freezes or fails
- Apple CarPlay not triggering or requiring a USB connection without wireless capability
- Outdated USB ports
- Safety and structural:
- Airbag malfunctions, including failure to deploy or causing injury
- Exhaust system leaks
- Potential issues with battery connections
- Roof leaks
- Shaky feeling at highway speeds
- Fuel and charging (especially for Prime models):
- Charging port problems, particularly in cold weather
- Issues with the 12-volt battery
Recalls and investigations
- The 2021 RAV4 Prime has been recalled for issues with battery connections and the charging port.
- A recall was also issued for the airbag sensor in some 2021 RAV4 models.
- There is a potential class-action investigation into transmission problems like hesitation or lurching.
What are the pros and cons of the 2021 RAV4?
There are several 2021 Toyota Rav4 pros and cons to consider before investing. The car offers excellent pricing, practical mileage, and an appealing exterior design. However, it also comes with outdated technology, a stiff and noisy ride, and a limited base model with several manual features drivers won't enjoy.
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.
