TOYOTA RAV4 SUVS: The Best Ones to Buy Used

a split image of two different used Toyota RAV4 SUVs off-roading

The Toyota RAV4 SUV has been a staple for many growing families. Now in its fifth generation, it's received raving reviews for its fuel economy and spacious cargo volume. Though classic and memorable amongst short- and long-term owners, every opinion depends on the year and model they liked the most. Rather than diving into the books yourself, we've done the work and researched the best used Toyota RAV4 SUVs that would fit your family's needs. Between 2005 and 2022, we've picked the best of the best of all different trims, such as the XLE and Limited, as well as the best hybrid or plug-in-hybrid (Prime) models. We also reviewed and rated the best interior design and features, ones with the best gas mileage, MPG ratings, and more. Let's get to it.

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Best Toyota RAV4 SUVs to Buy Used

Shopping for used SUVs for sale is no easy feat. There are lots of things to consider and diligent research must be performed. Taking into account all of the features and capability needed to be a happy Toyota RAV4 owner, here are our top 5 recommendations for the best Toyota RAV4 SUV models to buy used.

1. 2016 Toyota RAV4

a blue used 2016 Toyota RAV4 SUV

First, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 was one of the most popular model years, making it one of the best ever made. With above average consumer ratings, there were very little to no complaints about it (only 37 were submitted to the NHTSA). Above all, it was also recognized as one of the most affordable models on the market.

2. 2010 Toyota RAV4

a grayish-brown used 2010 Toyota RAV4 SUV

If you're looking for a model year that can last without lacking reliability, the 2010 Toyota RAV4 takes the cake for its 9.3/10 reliability rating due to its impressive performance after exceeding 200,000 miles on the odometer.

3. 2017 Toyota RAV4

a white used 2017 Toyota RAV4 SUV

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is popular among consumers for its generous list of features, including the Toyota Safety Sense. This model year also earned an 87/100 reliability rating from J.D. Power.

4. 2018 Toyota RAV4

a red used 2018 Toyota RAV4 SUV

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 is among one of the most reliable model years ever made, boasting an 88/100 quality and reliability rating on J.D. Power.

5. 2009 Toyota RAV4

a blue used 2009 Toyota RAV4 SUV

Last, but certainly not least, the 2009 Toyota RAV4 has been widely known as the highest-rated models in its class, for its favored cargo space, third-row seating option, and safety features. It boasted an 83/100 reliability rating on J.D. Power.

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Best Used Toyota RAV4 Trims & Configurations

a trio of different used Toyota RAV4 SUVs one grey, one black and one silver of different trim levels

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 LE trim is an excellent option if you're looking to make an upgrade from a sedan, with impressive features including 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway, 2.5L engine and 203 HP, AWD, 5-passenger capacity and 1,500 pounds of towing capacity.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium trim is one of the best 2022 model years to date, due to its EPA-estimated 40 mpg combines, 219 HP and instant torque, and luxurious interior amenities.

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Limited comes with 18" alloy wheels, a height-adjustable power liftgate, keyless entry/ignition, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and additional premium interior features.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Limited offers amazing features that speak on the side of luxury, earning 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway, a 2.5L engine with 203 HP, AWD, 5-passenger capacity, and 1,500 pounds of towing.

And finally, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited received a 4.5/5 expert review and 4.4/5 consumer rating through Kelly Blue Book for its dependability, drivability, safety, and overall comfort.

Best Used Toyota RAV4 XLE SUVs

a blue used Toyota RAV4 XLE SUV

The fourth generation RAV4 is among the most popular with consumers and the XLE is arguably one of the more popular RAV4 trims due to its affordability and array of standard features included. First up out of the RAV4 XLE lineup is the 2013 Toyota RAV4 XLE for its robust exterior including alloy wheels, fog lights, heated side mirrors, roof rails, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a sportier interior. Next up is the 2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE, earning a 4.2/5 Edmunds score for its roomy interior and well-sorted technology. Following that is the 2014 Toyota RAV4 XLE brings an optional navigational system, Toyota's Entune, satellite radio, HD radio, and voice controls. Next is the 2019 Toyota RAV4 XLE which comes with a standard AWD system, in addition to 17" alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, fog lights, heated mirrors, push-button start, keyless entry, and so much more. Finally, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Premium XLE trim adds 19" wheels, .2" of ground clearance, a power liftgate, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, faux leather upholstery, and soft-touch dashboard materials, making it highly desirable for consumers.

Best Used Toyota RAV4 Limited SUVs

a red used Toyota RAV4 Limited SUV

The 2014 Toyota RAV4 Limited is one of the most recognized model years due to its new technology package, which included a blind-spot monitoring system with a lane departure warning system and automatic high-beam control. We chose this model because it was the first in the limited to add these premium safety functions. Next, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited is popular for its spacious interior for both passengers and cargo, its cutting-edge technology, and for striking a balance between comfort and secure handling. The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Limited introduced the adventure trim level and was popular for being one of the largest and most versatile cargo areas in the lineup. Along with its advanced standard safety and driving aids, it offered a smooth, comfortable ride. Amping up the ante, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Limited is highly ranked for its heightened interior, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-setting seat-back and -bottom heaters, and SofTex trimmed seats with French stitching. Lastly, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Limited earned a 4.2/5 review on Edmunds for its strong power and fuel economy, expansive cargo space, and responsive handling.

Best Used Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SUVs

Choosing a hybrid vehicle can be beneficial for your fuel economy in the long run. The 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid was the first hybrid and was a huge success due to its affordability, technology, and amenities. Redesigned 3 years later, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model received an above-average reliability ranking, 82/100, making it one of the top models to choose if you're looking for hybrid. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model only received 4 consumer complaints, making it one of the most favored model years. Finally, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model comes in close second with the 2021 model year, with only a handful of consumer complaints.

Best Used Toyota RAV4 Prime (Plug-In Hybrid) SUVs

a silver used Toyota RAV4 Prime SUV

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid model that earns an EPA-estimated 38 mpg once the battery is depleted and can accelerate from 0-60 in under 6 seconds due to its 302 HP. Next, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime earns an impressive 42 miles of electric-only driving range with quick acceleration. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime MPG-E gets an EPA-estimated 94 MPGe when in hybrid mode, giving it twice the amount of most average gas SUVs in its class. It's a quiet, comfortable ride that offers generous cargo space. Last up, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Prime earned a reliability score of 82/100, making it one of the best crossovers for reliability.

Used Toyota RAV4 SUVs with the Best Interior

a clean, modern, black leather interior of a used Toyota RAV4 SUV

We scoured the internet for the king of Toyota RAV4's based on its interior design and features to come up with these recommendations. First on the list is the 2009 Toyota RAV4 due to receiving an 83/100 consumer rating on J.D. Power for having one of the best quality interiors. It scored a 9.4/10 reliability rating on SureCritic for its expansive cargo space, third-row seating option, and safety. Next up is the 2018 Toyota RAV4 is offered a wide selection of interior systems, making it a popular option among consumers. After that is the 2016 Toyota RAV4 for its highly sought-after quiet interior. Next, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 was the first model to get Bluetooth as a standard feature for its interior infotainment system with a 6.1" touchscreen, making it highly popular. The 2010 Toyota RAV4 didn't have many changes from the 2009 model year, however it boasted an overall score of 9/10 for reliability. Finally, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE is among one of the most popular for interior features due to having luxurious amenities including a power sunroof, a power liftgate, chrome wheels, simulated leather upholstery, and more.

Used Toyota RAV4 SUVs with the Best Gas Mileage

a red used Toyota RAV4 SUV driving down the road toward the lens of the camera

If you're searching for a used Toyota RAV4 with the best gas mileage, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 boasts a 27 mpg combined fuel economy, 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Next, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 limited Hybrid boasts excellent fuel economy, earning 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model has excellent fuel economy, earning 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, making it one of the best models for long road trips. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime earns up to 94 MPGe combined, making it one of the highest in fuel economy. Finally, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 SE Hybrid earns an unbelievable 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, making the 2022 model year one of the best for fuel economy.

Used Toyota RAV4 SUVs with the Best Towing Capacity

 a green used Toyota RAV4 SUV driving down a dirt road pulling a small camper

Looking for a used Toyota RAV4 that packs some punching power? First up is the fifth generation of the Toyota RAV4, specifically the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure trim due to its upgraded torque-vectoring system and premium equipment that increased its towing capacity from 1,500 pounds to 3,500 pounds-a huge boost. Next up on the list is the 2018 Toyota RAV4 with a boosted towing capacity at 3,500 pounds. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 has a towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds, which is enough to haul a canoe, jet-ski, small camper, snowmobile, motorcycle, and more. Shifting to the hybrid side, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid boasts a towing capacity up to 1,750 pounds, making it both reliable and dependable for consumers. Finally, resulting in a tie, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Adventure and 2022 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road trim levels can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it the most popular among all trim levels.

Used Toyota RAV4 SUVs for Sale in Santa Fe, NM

There you have it! Did you see a used Toyota RAV4 that you like? If you did, or if you have a question about a particular used Toyota RAV4 model year not listed here, contact us today at Octane GMC in Santa Fe, NM to talk to a used car expert or browse our inventory below of used Toyota RAV4 SUVs for sale to get started.

Disclaimer: The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price.

1Dealer Discount applied to everyone