What kind of engine does a Toyota RAV4 have?
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular compact SUV known for its versatility, reliability, and impressive performance. At the heart of the RAV4 is a robust engine that delivers a balance of power and efficiency. Let's take a closer look at the engine that powers this beloved SUV.
The Engine Specifications
The standard engine found in the Toyota RAV4 is a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and light off-road adventures.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which helps to optimize fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The RAV4 with this engine configuration can achieve up to 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway, making it a practical and efficient choice for a compact SUV.
Advanced Engine Technologies
The Toyota RAV4's engine features several advanced technologies that contribute to its impressive performance and efficiency:
- Direct Injection: This system directly injects fuel into the engine's cylinders, improving combustion and increasing power output.
- Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i): This system adjusts the timing of the engine's intake and exhaust valves, optimizing power and efficiency across a wide range of driving conditions.
- Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT): The RAV4's eight-speed automatic transmission uses a continuously variable design to provide smooth, efficient power delivery.
These advanced technologies, combined with the engine's robust design, make the Toyota RAV4 a compelling choice for those seeking a capable and efficient compact SUV.
What engines come in a Toyota RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 offers several engine options, including a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder gas engine with 203 horsepower, a 2.5L hybrid system producing up to 219 combined horsepower, and a plug-in hybrid version (RAV4 Prime) with 302 combined horsepower. Future models starting with the 2026 model year will be exclusively offered with electrified powertrains: mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid options.
Current engine options
This video explains the different engine options for Toyota RAV4: 59sCarMaxYouTube · Feb 12, 2025
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder (Gasoline):
- Horsepower: 203 hp
- Torque: 184 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid:
- Horsepower: Up to 219 combined hp
- Transmission: Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)
- RAV4 Prime (Plug-in Hybrid):
- Horsepower: 302 combined hp
- Electric Range: Up to 42 miles (EV-only range)
- 0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds
Future engine options (starting with 2026 model year)
This video provides an overview of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 with its new engine options: 49sMVP AutoYouTube · Sep 5, 2025
- Exclusively electrified: The 2026 RAV4 will only be available with hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains.
- Powertrains: Options will include mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid systems.
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 is the most common problem with a Toyota RAV4?
The most common problem with a Toyota RAV4 is transmission issues, especially with the 8-speed automatic in certain models, leading to rough shifting or hesitation. Other frequent problems include engine issues like excessive oil consumption in some models, electrical failures with the infotainment system and sensors, and brake and suspension concerns such as squealing or premature wear.
Transmission problems
- Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting, low-speed hesitation, delayed engagement, and difficulty getting into certain gears.
- Cause: In some older models, poor computer-transmission communication was an issue, while in newer models, the 8-speed automatic can develop problems around 150,000 miles. A lack of proper maintenance, such as infrequent transmission fluid changes, is a common factor.
This video discusses common transmission issues in Toyota RAV4 models: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Nov 16, 2024
Engine problems
- Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring more frequent top-offs, and intermittent stalling or rough running.
- Cause: Some four-cylinder engines are known to burn too much oil.
Electrical and interior problems
- Symptoms: Frozen infotainment screens, sensor faults, unexpected battery drain, and a blank display screen.
- Cause: These can be caused by software glitches in the telematics or infotainment systems, or issues with hardware like the 12-volt battery.
Brake and suspension concerns
- Symptoms: Brake squealing, brake pulsation or vibration, and wear on pads and rotors.
- Cause: These can be related to the brake pads, discs, or sensors. Some older models also had rear suspension hardware issues that could affect alignment.
Other common problems
- Fuel system: Issues where the fuel pump clicks off early, preventing the tank from appearing full.
- Power liftgate: A lawsuit has been filed regarding the power liftgate hinges on certain models, alleging premature failure.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): The TPMS light may come on, indicating issues like low pressure, a leak, or a flat tire.
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.
