What does a Toyota RAV4 weigh?
The weight of a Toyota RAV4 varies by model year, trim level, drivetrain and options. In general, you’ll see a curb weight in the low-to-mid 3,000s pounds, with heavier AWD versions, and a separate GVWR (maximum safe loaded weight) in the low- to mid-4,000s pounds. This article lays out the typical figures you’ll encounter in today’s lineup and explains what each number means for payload, towing and handling.
In brief terms, the RAV4’s curb weight—the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo—usually ranges from roughly 3,300 to 3,650 pounds, depending on configuration. All-wheel-drive versions tend to be heavier than front-wheel-drive models due to the extra drivetrain components. The GVWR, which includes the vehicle plus passengers and cargo, commonly falls in the 4,400 to 4,600-pound band. Payload capability and towing limits scale with those numbers and vary by trim and equipment.
Weight by configuration
Below is a concise overview of typical weight ranges for common RAV4 configurations. Exact figures can vary by model year and options; consult your vehicle’s door jamb sticker or the official Toyota spec sheet for precise numbers.
- Front-wheel-drive (FWD) RAV4: approximately 3,300–3,450 pounds (1,496–1,566 kg) curb weight.
- All-wheel-drive (AWD) RAV4: approximately 3,500–3,650 pounds (1,588–1,658 kg) curb weight.
- Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): typically around 4,400–4,600 pounds (1,996–2,086 kg) depending on trim and equipment.
- Payload capacity: generally about 1,000–1,200 pounds (454–545 kg), varying with GVWR and curb weight.
- Towing capacity: up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg) with the appropriate towing package and configuration.
- Hybrid variants: usually heavier than their gas-powered counterparts by roughly 150–250 pounds due to battery weight; exact figures depend on the year and trim.
Conversions aside, these figures illustrate how weight shifts with drivetrain and trim. Heavier drivetrains (AWD) and additional equipment push curb weight upward, while GVWR provides the ceiling for safe loaded mass and influences payload. For someone buying or renting a RAV4, these numbers affect fuel economy, acceleration, braking distance and maneuverability, especially when fully loaded or towing.
To get an exact number for a specific vehicle, refer to Toyota’s official spec sheets for the model year you’re interested in or check the window sticker on a new vehicle. Weight can differ by market, trim, optional equipment and the presence of hybrid systems.
Why weight matters for buyers
Knowing the weight helps with estimating payload (how much cargo and passengers you can carry safely), towing capacity, and overall handling. Heavier variants may use more fuel and feel slightly less sprightly on the highway, while lighter configurations may offer better fuel economy and nimbleness in urban driving.
Notes on data accuracy
Weights provided here reflect typical ranges from recent model years. If you need the exact curb weight, GVWR, payload or towing figure for a particular trim and year, please consult Toyota’s official documentation or the sticker on the vehicle you’re considering. Specifications can shift between generations and markets.
Summary
The Toyota RAV4’s weight sits in a broad but predictable range: curb weights generally run from around 3,300 to 3,650 pounds, with AWD versions toward the higher end. GVWR typically lands around 4,400–4,600 pounds, while payload and towing capacity depend on the specific trim and configuration. Hybrid variants tend to be heavier than their gasoline counterparts. For precise numbers, always check the exact model year and trim specs.
In short, if you’re evaluating a RAV4 for daily use, assess not only the curb weight but also the GVWR, payload needs, and any towing plans to ensure the vehicle suits your practical requirements. This will give you a clear sense of how much the RAV4 weigh will matter in real-world use.
Summary: Curb weight ≈ 3,300–3,650 lb; AWD heavier than FWD; GVWR ≈ 4,400–4,600 lb; payload ≈ 1,000–1,200 lb; towing up to 3,500 lb with the right setup; hybrid variants weigh more due to the battery.
What is the heaviest RAV4 model?
Toyota RAV4 Weight & Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Comparison
| Curb Weight | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 Toyota RAV4 | 3,370 – 3,655 lbs | 4,610 – 4,705 lbs |
| 2020 Toyota RAV4 | 3,370 – 3,655 lbs | 4,610 – 4,705 lbs |
| 2019 Toyota RAV4 | 3,370 – 3,620 lbs | 4,610 – 4,705 lbs |
| 2018 Toyota RAV4 | 3,455 – 3,520 lbs | 4,525 lbs |
What year of RAV4 to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Toyota RAV4 include 2001-2003 (transmission and ECM issues), 2006-2008 (excessive oil consumption), 2013-2015 (transmission hesitation and rough shifting), and 2019 (fuel pump failures, engine cooling problems, and engine issues). Additionally, hybrid models from the 5th generation may have issues with high-voltage cable corrosion and battery life, and some models can have paint peeling problems, especially around 2013.
By model year
This video explains the issues with the 2006-2008 model years: 1mCar ComfyYouTube · Jun 11, 2025
- 2001-2003: Potential for transmission and Electronic Control Module (ECM) failures.
- 2006-2008: Excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.4L engine, and potential steering lockups.
- 2013: Reports of transmission hesitation, electrical fires, and paint peeling.
- 2014-2015: Transmission hesitation and rough shifting were common issues.
- 2019: Engine problems like oil leaks, cooling issues, and fuel pump failures were reported. Hybrid models also experienced issues with corroded high-voltage wiring.
By type of problem
- Transmission issues: 2001-2003, 2006-2008, 2009-2012, 2013-2015, and 2018 models have been associated with transmission problems.
- Engine/oil consumption: 2006-2008 models are known for excessive oil consumption, and 2019 models reported engine cooling and oil loss problems.
- Electrical issues: 2013 models have been linked to electrical fires, and 2019 models had infotainment glitches (which were often resolved by software updates).
- Hybrid-specific issues: Some 5th generation hybrid models have had issues with high-voltage cable corrosion and battery longevity.
- Other issues:
- Paint peeling: Some owners of the 2013 model reported paint issues.
- Roof rack leaks: 2019-2021 models have been linked to leaky roof racks.
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
