Toyotas are usually pretty joyless to drive. Until you've had the same car for 10-15 years, spent minimal $ on maintenance and it drives like it can easily go another 10-15 years - that's where the joy begins.
It takes time to enjoy it. I have 3 Lexus's so far. No it won't turn heads immediately. But living life with it. That's where you realize the car works as hard as you do. It keeps you going and given those qualities, I relate so much more!
@@d1sturb3d119 I have an 06 2wd Sport V6...not much to look at inside or out but peace of mind regarding general reliability is more valuable to me than styling plus the v6 is no slouch. Should be even more fun after I install the headers sitting in my office lol
I'm driving a 96' Toyota Carina E which was bought used in 99. After 24 years I have changed the timing belt once, in 2004, distributor, waterpump and some wheel bearings and brakes. Of course oil/oil filter as well, but other than that it's mostly riding on its original parts, and that's after 21 years of daily driving the car.
dolamyte I’m a huge car enthusiast. But to say this is boring....this car is why they can make their Supra’s and LFA Lexus. The cayenne when it came out was absolutely lambasted by Porsche purists thinking they were watering their storied brand down with an suv offering. But that SUV and now also the Macan, have saved and helped the company now thrive. Think before you talk. This is why savage is a longtime car you tuber he knows the importance of this rav4 because it will be their best selling vehicle in North America in the crossover segment and maybe even surpass the corolla
@@Billeh556 I wasn't trying to label the car in any particular way since I've got better things to spend my time doing than to form an opinion on it....I just don't think it's worth it in the same way a Chevy Citation wouldn't have deserved all this effort. However, because he puts the effort in regardless, is why I've been here for so long and keep coming back. My commentary is less about the car and more about team behind the Savage content!
dolamyte my bad! Yes he puts awesome time into what he does, funny enough I was a sub but never unsubbed...yet I had to sub again just now. Have a nice day sir
This is why I always enjoy your reviews, even for cars that aren't on my radar. You always factor in the intended audience when doing the review. Your conclusion that this is the most highly evolved and joyless automotive appliance is fitting. People buy this car with the left side of their brain because it ticks all the boxes and is reliable
Nick LaMendola “Automotive appliance” 🤔 That is the perfect description of the ‘87 Toyota Camry I bought new. After 9 years I was able to part with it as easily as parting with a toaster. I still have the ‘96 GMC Suburban 2WD that I traded it for and we love the “Burb”. I’ve had Toyotas as rental cars. Zero character. (I might like a 4Runner though)
Steve Printy I agree with you wholeheartedly. I’m a Toyota master and almost nothing has soul anymore. I bought a six speed 2019 corolla hatch, it handles well but bores me to death. Got my significant other a 2019 RAV4 which she loves. I don’t like to drive it but hey it’s her car. I miss my old forester and wrx but had to grow up
He should've driven the hybrid, which would've resolved most of his complaints about the drivetrain. "Character" in cars often mean deficiencies which enthusiasts find cute, but make the car hard to live with.
Agent00F the most fun for me is dont ever have to visit a shop every few weeks. What the fuck is fun with these cuv anyway? If i wany fun ill get a wrx not a fucking mazda cx5 or crv period.
The transmission “clunk” when you’re coming to a stop and suddenly accelerate is an issue Toyota has a TSB for. They reprogram the ECU I believe. Had it done to mine and it went away.
Is it the same clank, clank, clank that you hear around 18 mph when coming to a stop? I was told that that is the dynamic torque vectoring system disengaging. Oh and you only hear it when the windows are down and you’re not in a high traffic area.
It isn't the same, but you can't tell by hearing it. 4A, AR, AZ, ZZ. Belt, chain. 3, 4, 5 valves per cylinder. VVT, VVTL. Yamaha or Toyota head. Port or direct/port injection. It all sounds like a Toyota 4 cylinder. Maybe not pleasant, but somewhat comforting.
I bought a 2022 XLE Premium gas version, and it certainly isn't a sports car or a heavy off-roader... but it is a hell of a confident car. I have no doubt that it will run for years, and I feel secure that it won't struggle in adverse conditions. Fuel economy is fan-tastic at 27-35 mpg. I have the AWD and I don't see a noticeable dip in the efficiency. Sure, the Hybrid blows the gas out of the water, but for an SUV, 27mpg city is insane if you've owned SUV's in the past. The interior isn't luxury, but it's appealing, comfortable, and easy on the eyes. The sound system (non-JBL) is pretty bad, but replacing the front dashboard speakers easily gives a MASSIVE improvement. The design on the outside in my opinion is the best on the market for Crossovers, second only to Subaru. Toyota has found the perfect mix of sleek *almost* sporty with a more squared off, truck-inspired design. It's remarkably appealing, and stands out over many of the other bulbous crossover designs out there. Ultimately though, where this car triumphs are the safety features. Toyota SafetySense being implemented at ALL trim levels in these things is incredible. I can't state enough just how nice these are to have. The biggest thing I had to get used to (coming from a compact sedan) was the footprint. It's a small SUV, but it's still a big car. If you're not used to driving bigger vehicles, keep in mind the hood on the Rav. It's certainly larger than almost any other Toyota's non-SUV/pickup vehicles. Thankfully, this car has a stellar turn radius. In my mind, if you're in the market for a Crossover and you don't want to break the bank, this is seriously the way to go.
I started watching this channel when it had less than 20k subscribers, then stayed with it till 100k, after that I made a break for a few months and came today to see it’s heading into 400k. congratulations!
If this video were a car, it’d definitely be a Bentley. Such an amazing quality as usual. It makes the RAV4 look way better than how it actually looks.
I love this review. I agree mostly with you especially that engine----ugh!. I drove my rav from north Carolina to Washington state twice in 1 year. Great seats, great comfort, great infotainment, good visibility. I love my RAV4
@@Taurineg Oh ok. I never thought of that. This world is just so confusing. I need my safe space so I can get comfort with my emotional support Llama. Do you think they will allow that on a Delta flight?
Nice to see an actual review of the car for the intended use, not just car journalist "Cheap interior and slow" review like they say about 99% of cars.
You’re turning into one of my favorite reviewers my guy. Getting realistically honest for cars that are in most of our price range. The super car reviews are nice and all, but I’m never spending $100k+ on a car, ever... This is more my speed and your honesty of the cars and lifting them up give me actual concerns that apply to me. Love me some Toyota/Lexus because how you described this car is correct. I know my Camry and Tacoma ARE turning the key today!! 😎
this is why savagegeese is the best reviewer on youtube, cause he also focuses on normal cars. I may never sit in an aventador or even actually see one in real life, but if I aim high, strap on my kneepads and do well for the overlords above me........i may be able to bless myself with a loaded RAV4:|
I’ve had my Rav4 xle for two weeks. I knew going in that the drive wasn’t going to be phenomenal. I also knew it wasn’t going to drive like a car. I was fine with both of these. I wanted something with a bit more room than what I had and with an engine that wasn’t horribly underpowered but good enough power and great fuel efficiency. The materials don’t look cheap but are hard in some areas. The subwoofer sound system is good enough. The ride is compliant and not bouncy or jiggly. The last time I had a Toyota was a 86.5 Supra. Toyota seems to still have a habit of making long lasting good cars. And that was the Cherry atop the sundae.
@@leonkennedies it is very buzzy especially when first driving and when accelerating. With 203 hp it’s not as if it is working hard but it’s just a bit noisy. I turn up the stereo heat a bit to compensate. Also, we were just doing some expressway driving at speeds over 70mph and it was a compliant ride to my wife and I. I’ve read other reviews that say it was hard to converse and I do not agree with that at all. Hope this was helpful.
8:51 "It's like putting your head in a soup can in the city with people screaming at you..." LMAO thanks for the visual and the chuckle to start my weekend :)
I took delivery of the new RAV4 Hybrid in December 2019. I must say that this review is absolutely bang on, not just regarding the car itself but also people like me who might want to buy one. It is, as you say, an appliance, and that was what I was looking for. For the money, and it comes with a maxed out safety pack which is standard across the range, I think it is exceptional value. Build quality is the best of any car I have ever driven, mine was built in Japan. Great car, great review. Delighted to have found your channel!
Bought ours brand new in late December 2018 and put 42k miles on it in a year. It’s exactly as you say an appliance but that’s the beauty in it. I made sure mine was also built in Japan and you can tell this thing is going to last and has high quality materials
Your videos, your no-bullshit approach, and authenticity are top shelf, my friend. That's why I have told every person who is into cars in Australia to subscribe to the channel. Keep up the fantastic work!!
I'm in the market for a 2020 Rav4 and might buy one in the next 1-2 months. I really enjoyed this review as well as your consideration of the type of person who'd buy this car. I really just want a solid stable car that I could drive to work to during the summer and Midwestern winters with the occasional fishing and camping trip thrown in once or twice a year. I don't care too much about speed or flash. Thank you savageese, you've earned a sub from me!
Once again the Hybrid RAV4 rates highest. Having said that, I would like to know how any RAV4 can EVER cost more than a 4X4 4Runner. That's like a Corolla costing more than an Avalon.
Not as a compliment but like a legitimate question: why dont you have more subs? Your videos are tremendously well produced and filled with reason and care, and eye to the public of a specific vehicle.
I totally agree that this vehicle is joyless to drive and Toyota knows it pretty well. In reality, mass consumers just don't care about it. They just want a safe, reliable, good quality, and good looking at an affordable price. Toyota hits those key areas spot on.
I agree, it actually makes sense to have the hybrid version. Its great that Toyota lots of drivetrain options. I think the gauge cluster looks fine. The way that middle screen is implemented, yea is kinda crap but having analog gauges is in my opinion better than full digital, lasts longer and is cheaper to repair when keeping longterm
The outstanding production of your reviews is why I watch every single one of your new videos, even if most of the vehicles you review will never be on my consideration list. I would love to see you review some new vehicles that have been commanding a lot of media attention recently like the new Chevrolet Suburban, Mid-engine Corvette, and Hyundai Sonata, etc. The level of effort you put into your reviews is amazing. Keep it up!
Well done video. I cross shopped Rav4, CX-5 and Subaru Outback after doing months of research. There were pluses and minuses for all three but when it came down to buying time the Subaru premium tick most of the boxes and I bought a 2020 for a very fair price.
Hey! I'm in the same boat but not ready to go check them out in person. What ultimately tipped you? And what about the RAV made it a contender over the others? I'm a bit of a noob.
I've got a '12 Rav4 V-6 Sport model and I love it. No, it's not going to replace a sports car for the enthusiast, but it corners flat enough to be enjoyable around local canyons at legal and quasi-legal speeds. It's tight and rattle free. That new interior is amazing, far nicer than mine, but really that tacked on tablet sticks out like a sore thumb. They haven't improved the backup camera much either. Mine is only useful for the last foot or so, due to the location of the spare tire and the height of the rear window. The V-6 has plenty of power, but is very thirsty. My "commute" is 3 miles each way so it hardly gets warmed up and 16-17 mpg :(. The new plug in hybrid is on my radar, not for a few years, but 302 hp and close to 40 mpg, hell yes sign me up. Thanks for a great, honest review Mark.
Fun fact. There’s a Toyota bulletin for the jerk in transmission at lower gears/speed. It takes about an hour for them to reprogram the ecm module. You have to ask for it though. Fixes it 100% and smooth as butter now on mine. I’m so glad I did it as I love the truck.
I just watched this and totally agree. I was in the market for Crossover like this recently and I thought I’d fall in love with a Rav4- I drove it several times and left feeling so underwhelmed with driving dynamics. It’s slow and noisy and sloppy. And not cheap! I was torn after so many test drives and didn’t want any alternatives like the Honda CR-V. I randomly drove to the Volkswagen dealer a mile north at a friends suggestion. I stumbled upon a 2019 Tiguan SE, didn’t expect to like it but agreed to a test drive and I fell for it quickly had soon as the salesman opened it up and let me look around and he said let’s drive it. 3 hours later I drove it home and haven’t regretted it since! I love it! And for $24,300 with destination and nicely equipped and classy looking! It’s a great value and joy to drive. I got the dealer to tint the front 2 windows. The warranty is 6 years / 72,000 miles. It is a turbo so we will see how that works out, but i trade every 2 years anyway. I get tons of compliments and it’s very refined. I just put 5000 enjoyable miles driving from Oklahoma to California and back for vacation. No problems.
Just bought the RAV4 limited. Had the same Honda civic for 10 years that I got for high school grad. Gonna pick up the new Rav this week. Thanks for the review it helped me a lot
@@DosageConsulting as soon as i drove it i knew i wanted it. the only thing i don't like about it is that the engine isnt very powerful but i dont need crazy acceleration or anything like that. its an awesome vehicle.
The summer of 2019 we rented a 2019 Adventurer RAV4. It was a gas model of course. We needed a small SUV for our weekly vacation and we rented it from our dealer. We were both pleasantly surprised at how much gas mileage we got out of it and we did NOT drive on all freeways. We did a lot of two lane highway and back roads with it. We had an overall mileage of 32mpg. So we rented a RAV4 for the next two summers after that. In 2020 we had an XLE Gas motor. (Same destination vacation wise...same roads, etc) Same good gas mileage but it was lower end gizmo wise. The 7 inch screen. No JBL, etc. Last year (2021) we rented a Limited RAV4 gas model. Much nicer. It had the Weather Package but no Tech Package. Still, it was comfortable and of course decent gas mileage of 32mpg overall. Plus this one had the JBL system and a 8 inch screen. To me the best 'Test Drives' are when you rent or have a loaner for at least a week. You can really play with a vehicle when you have that amount of time. So this year when we go on vacation again we are going to take OUR new RAV4 Limited Hybrid with both the Tech & Weather Packages. (No more Rentals....lol) Plus it came with the Pano-Roof. The Passenger seat is now powered. The screen is now 9 inches. Of course I wish it had a few things more in it. For example: A HUD, Power Mirrors connected to the Seat Memory, a 110v plug like the Adventurer has. I figured it is a Limited then it should have ALL those things. But, all in all it is a decent vehicle that should last us 15 years and probably longer. Our 2007 Camry XLE with its 6 cylinder is running just fine. Minimal repairs on that car as well. I was strongly considering the Venza Limited until I realized it does not have Dials/Knobs for the Radio and the HVAC system. That was a deal killer but, everything else about the Venza is wonderful. I had one of those for two days as a loaner and it impressed me with its near Lexus Like Ride... But have a RAV4 Hybrid is a good thing now a days with high gas prices. Plus we 'Lucked Out' and only had to wait 6 months to take delivery. I believe now it is more toward a year of wait time and two years on the Prime.
Great review as always. One thing I do like to note that is missing is the discussion of the driver safety and assistance tech that comes standard in all trims of this car. Diver assistance, lane tracing (basically steering assist) is probably one of the best in the class. Most competitors only do radar cruise control but no lane tracing. It makes a huge difference in day to day driving.
I’m hoping the engine and transmission issues you pointed out are resolved in the RAV4 Prime coming out later this year (summer?) Looking forward to an update!
The RAV4 Prime transmission will be an eCVT, not the 8-Speed Automatic seen in this review that drives the gas only model. This eCVT is part of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy system has a good reputation for reliability after many years of proven service. It is a planetary gear transmission, not the type with pulleys and belts that many drivers dislike. Savagegeese recommended the Hybrid model to minimize the 4-Cylinder engine noise from the gas only model. The RAV4 Prime is obviously a hybrid, but also keep in mind that the first 40 miles of driving will be all-electric. The only noise you will hear at that time will be the whine of the electric motors and any wind or road noise that penetrates the cabin. In the car manufacturing business, trying to create a quiet cabin is done by designing a vehicle with NVH as a focus. NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) are a primary emphasis when a quiet cabin is desired. Unfortunately, Toyota did not place much priority on NVH when they designed the 2019 and 2020 RAV4. Their focus was on keeping the price down and keeping it as lightweight as possible for better MPGs. There is no double-pane (laminated) windshield or front window glass. There is very little sound proofing material under the hood or on the firewall between the engine and cabin. This lack of substantial sound proofing is found throughout the vehicle. This is why many reviewers complain about the engine noise. Since the electric motors in a hybrid are quieter than a small gas engine under stress, they hybrid will be quieter during take-off and at low speeds. The lead engineer at Toyota has stated that NVH was a focus in designing the 2020 Highlander. While not directly stating it, he did say the re-design of the RAV4 had other priorities. Finally, the RAV4 Prime is a 2021 model. Toyota should have realized that users complained about engine and road noise in the 2019 and 2020 models. Ideally, they would have placed more emphasis on NVH for 2021. I kind of doubt they did that, however. Since the RAV4 Prime will have an even heavier battery than the regular hybrid, it will already weigh much more. I doubt they will add much soundproofing material. Just a little would help, so let's hope they did.
Another perfection of a video.... I would confidently vote this video as the best production anywhere on TH-cam. Superbe job Savage.... Keep Savaging .... ;)
We’ll be shopping for a RAV4 in about 18 months. We decided to go with the RAV4 because like you said, it has been almost perfectly engineered as the perfect appliance. And that’s all we want out of the car, for it to do it’s job. Honda, Nissan, and Subaru were axed off our list because of their CVT transmission. We may occasionally (once a year) two a light trailer and we prefer to have fixed gears for that duty. We strongly considered Mazda but they got axed because of space, or the lack thereof. We’re going for the RAV4 Adventure because of its looks and 3,500 lb towing capacity.
A friends mom bought the new es and gave it back after a few months of taking it to the dealer due to the transmission. She only drove city but said the down shifts were violent and felt to rough for a luxury car. She ended up buying an older model with the 6 speed as they were a lot smoother
Mikijs Mauss i don’t get it either. I’ve had sport cars my whole life. I switched it up and got a crv. Was miserable and tried the RAV4 and couldn’t be happier. I love driving it.
According to me, the joy of driving is the feeling you get on a winding road when you have direct control of the car direction using your feet and hands. It is difficult to achieve it with an Aisin/Toyota automatic transmissions as much as, in the Hybrid variant, with the mediation of an "eCVT" between your left foot and the engine pushing the wheels forward. Nevertheless I just ordered an Hybrid RAV4 to replace my rear wheels drive BMW with manual transmission, which is cosidered to be a great setup to achieve joy of driving: I was at the point of ordering a rear wheels drive Alfa Romeo Stelvio, but I was too nauseated by the diesel engines we have everywhere here in Europe. I just wanted a new game to play: ECO efficiency 😉
You mentioned the redesigned AWD system being far better than the old front to back systems. Would be interested to know how you feel it compares to Subaru's setup. I personally love the Subi AWD system but their cars as underpowered as FK.
I've had one of these for two weeks as a rental. Agree a lot with what you said. Low point is how outdated the infotainment feels. If feels like something out of 2005. Also, my rental had a lot of interior buzz and rattles surpisingly. I was suprised how cheap overall the interior felt.
Interior cutouts and space wasted. I'd just gut it out. There's hidden closed cavities in the rear for crash safety as well. To me they relied on designers and didn't expand the envelope to give you all the space. It can be cramped. I don't do infotainment. I need a CD/radio and a speedometer.
I can literally see whole a/c section move when you press a button or plastic around the gear lever is pushing down while you pushing down the buttons. I mean, what solid feel are you talking about?
@@_gramcrakka_82 Not all of them will give in, Honda's interior doesn't, it's not just the question of quality, it's the design, there is not enough support for a/c controls. I believe the car will run forever -bcs it's a toyota- but it will rattle like hell also.
My mom, who's been a lincoln continental and land yacht lady her whole life, is actually interested in this as a retirement vehicle. Its amazing just the amount of people interested in this thing. Youd think she'd want a ct6 or modern continental or s class or other modern land yacht, but nope, just a little rav4
After my 17 CRV had its injectors, head gasket and turbo replaced I wanted out of it ASAP. As a 20 year Honda Acura guy I decided to expand my horizons and test drive a bunch of different brands. At the end the RAV4 hybrid was tied at the top of my list. The seats were a deal breaker, the short cushions absolutely killed my legs. Same with the Forrester- folding chair seats- painful. Ended up with a ASPEC RDX. Thanks SG!
Excellent review. I purchased a 2020 adventure in lunar rock with weather package. I gotta say... I absolutely love this ride. The engine is a little on the loud side, even for the 2020 (2019 models don’t have sound insulation). That’s my only gripe. I don’t need the horsepower like I did when I was younger. Things that matter to me now are ride quality and the off road prowess of this model. Getting back in the deep desert is no issue for this thing. The different drive modes work phenomenally. Trust me... I’ve put it to the test. As an avid rock climber, I spend a lot of time loading and unloading gear in very remote places. Also, with the seats folded down, it makes for an excellent little camper. I’m 5’9” and have plenty of room to lay down. I love this ride.
Got stuck with a 2019 Toyota Camry when I was in LA last summer, I couldn’t figure out how that thing sells so well I couldn’t get that thing to move especially with the AC on almost felt unsafe merging on highways the worst engine sound too.
Bought a ‘20 Hybrid XSE a few weeks ago. We are enjoying it and made sure to credit your channel in the buyer survey. Only wish is that the passenger front seat lowered
Best music of any automotive youtuber. It's similar to my taste, in that I have no idea what to even tell people when they ask me "What kind of music do you listen to?"
Test drove a new Rav4. Got less than a 1/2 mile from dealership and turned around because couldn't stand the thought of putting up with the raw engine noise for the life of the car.
doctorhonda111 - It’s a very unrefined, off-putting engine noise tbh. Imagine the sound of the cheapest, Big Lots-tier blender running on the highest setting while filled with walnuts. That’s how this engine sounds. 🤮
The biggest thing I have always liked about your videos is that you put things on a hoist. DUH. All you other car mags, MSM auto journalists....how did you miss this all these years? This was a great review. It attracts the viewer and potential Rav 4 consumer and turns them off at the same time. I might buy one.
It seems that with as good as the whole platform is, all they have to do is offer the V6 again, and this would be the perfect choice. Refined, yet would last for fucking ever.
@@gusmartin1246 that is not better. So now you pay significantly more money for EV bs adding more complexity to the vehicle and long term reliability now suffers. Have fun having your Hybrid system getting maintained or fixed.
Toyota interiors are crap, rattles and creaks everywhere. The quality is all in the consistent manufacturing process and the engine. Actually, I feel like Hyundai has the same problem. Excellent reliability, but poor interior build.
Joseph G Hyundai/ Kia make beautiful cars inside and out but I’ve never been impressed with their interior quality they look good but once you start playing around with it you know why they low ball their competition in price. CHEAP everything, I think this is where Mazda beats out every non luxury brand.
@@carholic-sz3qv I mean, Honda doesn't have this problem. Toyota cuts corners on the interior, especially since they're gone to the more expensive soft touch and gloss plastics in their newest cars.
@@Loverapten yeah In the end I'd rather have r and d go more into comfort than the infotainment. I meamt all you end up using it for is the radio or Bluetooth.
The wind closing the doors was my favorite part. Kidding. Excellent review as always. Can't hate it, though I still don't think it would be my top pick. Engine might be the main reason why.
Mazda is about one ninth the size of Toyota yet they can produce something that I think is far more appealing in terms of interior and exterior design plus better driving dynamics.
Had a Mazda 6 that broke down a week after driving it off the lot and had nothing but issues luckily was hit by a drunk driver that totaled it and I was able to drop it for a rav4 and couldn’t be happier
We bought one 3 months ago, one drive in the Rav4 and I was instantly sold. Not only does it look nice inside and out but far more important to us even the base model is loaded with every safety feature under the sun which other manufacturers force you to go up to the higher trim levels to get.
@@balton6978 Yes Subau (at least here in Australia) We cross-shopped it with the Outback and in order to get the full suite of safety kit on offer (BSM, RCTA, SVM ect....) you need to step up to the mid-trim in the Outback while all that is standard on the entry model of the Rav4.
@@ryantaylor6530 Oh sorry, for some reason I had the Forester in mind, which even the base model comes with all the safety goodies. Well enjoy your RAV4, they're nice.
@@balton6978 even the forester misses allot of collision-avoidance tech at the lowest tier at least here in Australia although for an extra few grand it is a great option. I have had an Impreza as a 2nd car for years and it has never let me down.
It needs to stay competitive. It’s actually the smallest in the segment at 181 inches. Rogue and Santa Fe are much bigger, equinox is 183 inches, CRV 182-1 inches.
@@watchreport I can appreciate that. My old 2004 Rav4 was 167 inches long. The Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tuscon are both 176. I think shorter is better.
@@ryanforprez2008 Shorter is definitely not better when you're trying to lay down in the back and the damn thing is still four inches too damned short. The 4Runner needs to be at least four inches longer for sleeping.
@@ryanforprez2008 I would NEVER have awd. Too many things to break and go wrong. I do NOT want my car driving for me. I want complete control over everything it is doing.
There is not one new vehicle that has no faults, or should I say so many people comment about it being bad, bad after 50,000 miles, and so many other negatives and complaints. It’s the same with smartphones, watches and so many other products. But, I test drove this, amongst a few others like a Santa Fe, an Equinox, etc and this was the worst. It struggled to get up a little hill on the highway, it felt cheap inside (not the limited trim, but the middle of the road trim), and the infotainment felt so cheap and wobbled, like I could rip it right off the dash. Yet, these are some of the best selling CUV’s out there. So clearly, I am in the minority with my disdain for this vehicle.
It's also very possible that what's rattling are all the GoPro mounts, brackets and cameras needed for this video. Or even sections of the panel which weren't designed to be silent while bearing the added weight of such mounts. Always test drive a car yourself to get your own impression.
I'm in a Honda clarity phev. When my lease is up thats probably what I'm going to get into. 300hp in a SUV and 40 mile ev range is honestly the best combo I could think of.
There’s a re-tune for the transmission shift patterns, but I’ve never noticed a problem in any of the ones I’ve driven. Using the different modes helps with being more willing to downshift quickly (Sport Mode). I use the manual mode so it’s in the appropriate gear for what I’m doing- cornering/merging onto highway/putting through parking lot. I think some of the complaints are from people who don’t drive smoothly to begin with- they lag going up the on ramp, and then when they get to the top they floor it in Eco-mode, and then they are alarmed by the 2-step downshift that was hesitant cuz they were in the wrong mode, or they rail the accelerator, and it downshifts and then they back out of the throttle and then the transmission has to abruptly upshift two gears... drive smoothly and intently, and it’s completely fine... bottom line is the transmission is far better than the CVT in some of it’s competitors and will be way more reliable and long lasting. Regarding the engine noise- I don’t mind it, and the rentals that I’ve driven with more miles on them seem to have smoothed out on the buzziness of the 4-cyl. compared to when they are new. I think during the break-in period they have a buzz from the ECU learning and adjusting timing to adapt to how you drive maybe. But they definitely could use some more sound deadening material and if you ever feel the tinniness of the lightweight hood, I think there is some serious reverberations in the two layers of aluminum hood that transmits that buzzy sound. But in the bigger picture, naturally aspirated 4 cylinders rarely have a beautiful soundtrack anyways... some turbo 4s have some nice induction sound and a great exhaust to create better sounds than what the engine actually sounds like.
I agree 100% with your last comments/conclusions: a great car but not exiting to drive, specially the acceleration from stop position. And I have one 2020 XLE. Great vid. Thanks
I understand that to people like "SavageGeese", this car is an "appliance" and not fun or enjoyable to drive. However, this car is really nice, and I'm sure many of it's buyers do actually enjoy it. As he even admitted, the interior is very appealing and thought out, and the average 9-5 person getting into that car is going to enjoy and appreciate that experience. They understand that this isn't a McLaren.
Thank you for mentioning vehicles that are built to keep long term. I’ve been leasing domestics for years, but I’ve been considering getting away from that to buy something and keep it a long time. That thought has led me straight to Toyota and Mazda. A Corolla or Camry may be boring, but it’s a safe bet that your satisfaction with it will only grow as time passes. Mazda sticks with a good engine and transmission and wraps beautiful bodywork and interiors around it. Efforts like that attracts customers and sells cars more than some bullshit marketing (I’m looking at you, Potsch and Chevrolet).
Toyotas are usually pretty joyless to drive. Until you've had the same car for 10-15 years, spent minimal $ on maintenance and it drives like it can easily go another 10-15 years - that's where the joy begins.
It takes time to enjoy it. I have 3 Lexus's so far. No it won't turn heads immediately. But living life with it. That's where you realize the car works as hard as you do. It keeps you going and given those qualities, I relate so much more!
@@d1sturb3d119 I have an 06 2wd Sport V6...not much to look at inside or out but peace of mind regarding general reliability is more valuable to me than styling plus the v6 is no slouch. Should be even more fun after I install the headers sitting in my office lol
Mine is nearing 15 and has been well maintained. It definitely feels like it could go another 10 years.
I'm driving a 96' Toyota Carina E which was bought used in 99. After 24 years I have changed the timing belt once, in 2004, distributor, waterpump and some wheel bearings and brakes. Of course oil/oil filter as well, but other than that it's mostly riding on its original parts, and that's after 21 years of daily driving the car.
My GS F isn't boring or joyless. But my '97 Maxima sort of is...
A lot of these vehicles don't deserve this level of production and thought, which ironically is kinda why I subscribed.
dolamyte I’m a huge car enthusiast. But to say this is boring....this car is why they can make their Supra’s and LFA Lexus. The cayenne when it came out was absolutely lambasted by Porsche purists thinking they were watering their storied brand down with an suv offering. But that SUV and now also the Macan, have saved and helped the company now thrive. Think before you talk. This is why savage is a longtime car you tuber he knows the importance of this rav4 because it will be their best selling vehicle in North America in the crossover segment and maybe even surpass the corolla
@@Billeh556 I wasn't trying to label the car in any particular way since I've got better things to spend my time doing than to form an opinion on it....I just don't think it's worth it in the same way a Chevy Citation wouldn't have deserved all this effort. However, because he puts the effort in regardless, is why I've been here for so long and keep coming back. My commentary is less about the car and more about team behind the Savage content!
Let's just appreciate the love and care he dedicates to this channel.
@@MiguelRPD And that's the whole point!
dolamyte my bad! Yes he puts awesome time into what he does, funny enough I was a sub but never unsubbed...yet I had to sub again just now. Have a nice day sir
This is why I always enjoy your reviews, even for cars that aren't on my radar. You always factor in the intended audience when doing the review. Your conclusion that this is the most highly evolved and joyless automotive appliance is fitting. People buy this car with the left side of their brain because it ticks all the boxes and is reliable
define joyless without the Harry High School mentality.
Nick LaMendola “Automotive appliance” 🤔 That is the perfect description of the ‘87 Toyota Camry I bought new. After 9 years I was able to part with it as easily as parting with a toaster. I still have the ‘96 GMC Suburban 2WD that I traded it for and we love the “Burb”. I’ve had Toyotas as rental cars. Zero character. (I might like a 4Runner though)
Steve Printy
I agree with you wholeheartedly. I’m a Toyota master and almost nothing has soul anymore. I bought a six speed 2019 corolla hatch, it handles well but bores me to death. Got my significant other a 2019 RAV4 which she loves. I don’t like to drive it but hey it’s her car. I miss my old forester and wrx but had to grow up
He should've driven the hybrid, which would've resolved most of his complaints about the drivetrain. "Character" in cars often mean deficiencies which enthusiasts find cute, but make the car hard to live with.
Agent00F the most fun for me is dont ever have to visit a shop every few weeks. What the fuck is fun with these cuv anyway? If i wany fun ill get a wrx not a fucking mazda cx5 or crv period.
Seriously his production is legendary
calm down
I agree with you. RAV4 is a wonderful vehicle.
The transmission “clunk” when you’re coming to a stop and suddenly accelerate is an issue Toyota has a TSB for. They reprogram the ECU I believe. Had it done to mine and it went away.
What year is yours? I had it done on my 2014 but not after that (and I've had a 17, 18 and 19)
Daniel G 2019
Is it the same clank, clank, clank that you hear around 18 mph when coming to a stop? I was told that that is the dynamic torque vectoring system disengaging. Oh and you only hear it when the windows are down and you’re not in a high traffic area.
I think the problem is solved after a certain production month in 2019
ABSV /a beautiful sunset vlog that’s a separate issue, they supposedly have a tsb for that too.
Coming from a Toyota family I've been hearing that engine/transmission since I was a kid.
The A25A is not the same as the old engines you heard as a kid.
It isn't the same, but you can't tell by hearing it. 4A, AR, AZ, ZZ. Belt, chain. 3, 4, 5 valves per cylinder. VVT, VVTL. Yamaha or Toyota head. Port or direct/port injection. It all sounds like a Toyota 4 cylinder. Maybe not pleasant, but somewhat comforting.
@@matthewbowen5841 Not when the timing chain is rattling and Toyota shrugs it off.
hochhaul change the oil because 10k
I bought a 2022 XLE Premium gas version, and it certainly isn't a sports car or a heavy off-roader... but it is a hell of a confident car. I have no doubt that it will run for years, and I feel secure that it won't struggle in adverse conditions. Fuel economy is fan-tastic at 27-35 mpg. I have the AWD and I don't see a noticeable dip in the efficiency. Sure, the Hybrid blows the gas out of the water, but for an SUV, 27mpg city is insane if you've owned SUV's in the past.
The interior isn't luxury, but it's appealing, comfortable, and easy on the eyes. The sound system (non-JBL) is pretty bad, but replacing the front dashboard speakers easily gives a MASSIVE improvement. The design on the outside in my opinion is the best on the market for Crossovers, second only to Subaru. Toyota has found the perfect mix of sleek *almost* sporty with a more squared off, truck-inspired design. It's remarkably appealing, and stands out over many of the other bulbous crossover designs out there.
Ultimately though, where this car triumphs are the safety features. Toyota SafetySense being implemented at ALL trim levels in these things is incredible. I can't state enough just how nice these are to have.
The biggest thing I had to get used to (coming from a compact sedan) was the footprint. It's a small SUV, but it's still a big car. If you're not used to driving bigger vehicles, keep in mind the hood on the Rav. It's certainly larger than almost any other Toyota's non-SUV/pickup vehicles. Thankfully, this car has a stellar turn radius.
In my mind, if you're in the market for a Crossover and you don't want to break the bank, this is seriously the way to go.
Physical gear lever and physical knobs, sold
It is kind of sad that this is something we get excited about... but here we are!
for real, hate all this new stuff with dials and buttons to change the transmission gear
yeah kinda sad just how form over function its becoming in new cars
@@VeyronBD blame how mechanical parts are just more expensive than electrical parts nowadays. it sucks, I agree.
@Leopold lol
One of the best looking SUV's out there
I agree. It’s more truck like vs mini van which is why I bought one. I love mine.
I started watching this channel when it had less than 20k subscribers, then stayed with it till 100k, after that I made a break for a few months and came today to see it’s heading into 400k. congratulations!
If this video were a car, it’d definitely be a Bentley. Such an amazing quality as usual. It makes the RAV4 look way better than how it actually looks.
I love this review. I agree mostly with you especially that engine----ugh!. I drove my rav from north Carolina to Washington state twice in 1 year. Great seats, great comfort, great infotainment, good visibility. I love my RAV4
Bro just take a flight
@@Taurineg Oh ok. I never thought of that. This world is just so confusing. I need my safe space so I can get comfort with my emotional support Llama. Do you think they will allow that on a Delta flight?
@@grizzle273463 yeah I take mine with me all the time
Nice to see an actual review of the car for the intended use, not just car journalist "Cheap interior and slow" review like they say about 99% of cars.
You’re turning into one of my favorite reviewers my guy. Getting realistically honest for cars that are in most of our price range. The super car reviews are nice and all, but I’m never spending $100k+ on a car, ever... This is more my speed and your honesty of the cars and lifting them up give me actual concerns that apply to me. Love me some Toyota/Lexus because how you described this car is correct. I know my Camry and Tacoma ARE turning the key today!! 😎
Finally the new RAV4...been waiting for this review more then an year.
RAV4: Aside from trans concern, it does nothing wrong, but is "soul-less". Truly a quality appliance, much like a well tuned Kohler toilet.
Thomas Breithaupt - nothing wrong with trans. One of the best and most reliable
Bash bash
Too bad whatever you have is not as good
@@davevolz6138 He literally just praised it dude
Poor Thomas can’t afford one.🖕
Very good production quality and a great review. This has gotto be one of the best looking SUVs now in Production.
2:27 temp set to 69° and the national anthem of the USSR playing, nice
Just saw that haaaaaa
@3:34 “As good as it gets”....ur definitely in for a treat wait till they release the 2020 RAV4 Prime
if it doesnt turn into a robot i wont be impressed
latinbeandip RAV4 is confirmed to be the next Optimus Prime 😂
When the Rav4 Prime will have more power than the previous gens that came with the 2gr V6 lol. It will definitely feel faster.
this is why savagegeese is the best reviewer on youtube, cause he also focuses on normal cars. I may never sit in an aventador or even actually see one in real life, but if I aim high, strap on my kneepads and do well for the overlords above me........i may be able to bless myself with a loaded RAV4:|
I’ve had my Rav4 xle for two weeks. I knew going in that the drive wasn’t going to be phenomenal. I also knew it wasn’t going to drive like a car. I was fine with both of these. I wanted something with a bit more room than what I had and with an engine that wasn’t horribly underpowered but good enough power and great fuel efficiency. The materials don’t look cheap but are hard in some areas. The subwoofer sound system is good enough. The ride is compliant and not bouncy or jiggly. The last time I had a Toyota was a 86.5 Supra. Toyota seems to still have a habit of making long lasting good cars. And that was the Cherry atop the sundae.
I heard that the RAV4’s engine is a lot louder than others when accelerating. What are your thoughts?
@@leonkennedies it is very buzzy especially when first driving and when accelerating. With 203 hp it’s not as if it is working hard but it’s just a bit noisy. I turn up the stereo heat a bit to compensate. Also, we were just doing some expressway driving at speeds over 70mph and it was a compliant ride to my wife and I. I’ve read other reviews that say it was hard to converse and I do not agree with that at all. Hope this was helpful.
8:51 "It's like putting your head in a soup can in the city with people screaming at you..." LMAO thanks for the visual and the chuckle to start my weekend :)
I took delivery of the new RAV4 Hybrid in December 2019. I must say that this review is absolutely bang on, not just regarding the car itself but also people like me who might want to buy one. It is, as you say, an appliance, and that was what I was looking for. For the money, and it comes with a maxed out safety pack which is standard across the range, I think it is exceptional value. Build quality is the best of any car I have ever driven, mine was built in Japan. Great car, great review. Delighted to have found your channel!
Bought ours brand new in late December 2018 and put 42k miles on it in a year. It’s exactly as you say an appliance but that’s the beauty in it. I made sure mine was also built in Japan and you can tell this thing is going to last and has high quality materials
Yours was made in Japan because all Hybrid Toyota's are manufactured in Japan.
Your videos, your no-bullshit approach, and authenticity are top shelf, my friend. That's why I have told every person who is into cars in Australia to subscribe to the channel. Keep up the fantastic work!!
2:27 "USSR National Anthem" LMFAO
Iv been taking notice of the radio every video he posts. Some are pretty funny.
I thought there is a death penalty in US for listening that.
And Katiusha at 1:53 lol
Spasibo, Comrade.
@Franz Klein The Communists that we had in Russia and people who you name "commis" have nothing in common.
I'm in the market for a 2020 Rav4 and might buy one in the next 1-2 months. I really enjoyed this review as well as your consideration of the type of person who'd buy this car. I really just want a solid stable car that I could drive to work to during the summer and Midwestern winters with the occasional fishing and camping trip thrown in once or twice a year. I don't care too much about speed or flash. Thank you savageese, you've earned a sub from me!
Once again the Hybrid RAV4 rates highest. Having said that, I would like to know how any RAV4 can EVER cost more than a 4X4 4Runner. That's like a Corolla costing more than an Avalon.
The 4R is getting old and it's design has long being paid for
The RAV4 as you can see wasn't that cheap to build and it's fairly new
Have you seen the interior?
Not as a compliment but like a legitimate question: why dont you have more subs? Your videos are tremendously well produced and filled with reason and care, and eye to the public of a specific vehicle.
Hi savagegesse, please remember to review the RAV4 prime :D next year
noobwow2009 or this summer
I totally agree that this vehicle is joyless to drive and Toyota knows it pretty well. In reality, mass consumers just don't care about it. They just want a safe, reliable, good quality, and good looking at an affordable price. Toyota hits those key areas spot on.
I agree, it actually makes sense to have the hybrid version. Its great that Toyota lots of drivetrain options. I think the gauge cluster looks fine. The way that middle screen is implemented, yea is kinda crap but having analog gauges is in my opinion better than full digital, lasts longer and is cheaper to repair when keeping longterm
The outstanding production of your reviews is why I watch every single one of your new videos, even if most of the vehicles you review will never be on my consideration list. I would love to see you review some new vehicles that have been commanding a lot of media attention recently like the new Chevrolet Suburban, Mid-engine Corvette, and Hyundai Sonata, etc. The level of effort you put into your reviews is amazing. Keep it up!
Well done video. I cross shopped Rav4, CX-5 and Subaru Outback after doing months of research. There were pluses and minuses for all three but when it came down to buying time the Subaru premium tick most of the boxes and I bought a 2020 for a very fair price.
Are you a lesbian?
Hey! I'm in the same boat but not ready to go check them out in person. What ultimately tipped you? And what about the RAV made it a contender over the others? I'm a bit of a noob.
Savage, you’re the man. Great review. Keep telling it like it is.
Omg never seen this level of detailed car review, heard about you from Andie the lab.
I've got a '12 Rav4 V-6 Sport model and I love it. No, it's not going to replace a sports car for the enthusiast, but it corners flat enough to be enjoyable around local canyons at legal and quasi-legal speeds. It's tight and rattle free. That new interior is amazing, far nicer than mine, but really that tacked on tablet sticks out like a sore thumb. They haven't improved the backup camera much either. Mine is only useful for the last foot or so, due to the location of the spare tire and the height of the rear window. The V-6 has plenty of power, but is very thirsty. My "commute" is 3 miles each way so it hardly gets warmed up and 16-17 mpg :(. The new plug in hybrid is on my radar, not for a few years, but 302 hp and close to 40 mpg, hell yes sign me up. Thanks for a great, honest review Mark.
7:45 - I think you make a fantastic point about the platform supporting multiple car types (Avalon, RAV4 etc.) and systems (AWD, Hybrid etc.)
Fun fact. There’s a Toyota bulletin for the jerk in transmission at lower gears/speed. It takes about an hour for them to reprogram the ecm module. You have to ask for it though. Fixes it 100% and smooth as butter now on mine. I’m so glad I did it as I love the truck.
I bought the 2020 XLE PREMIUM 2 months ago.. Love it!
Mind if I ask why you went with it over other choices? What made the difference? I'm a noob and shopping.
I just watched this and totally agree. I was in the market for Crossover like this recently and I thought I’d fall in love with a Rav4- I drove it several times and left feeling so underwhelmed with driving dynamics. It’s slow and noisy and sloppy. And not cheap! I was torn after so many test drives and didn’t want any alternatives like the Honda CR-V. I randomly drove to the Volkswagen dealer a mile north at a friends suggestion. I stumbled upon a 2019 Tiguan SE, didn’t expect to like it but agreed to a test drive and I fell for it quickly had soon as the salesman opened it up and let me look around and he said let’s drive it. 3 hours later I drove it home and haven’t regretted it since! I love it! And for $24,300 with destination and nicely equipped and classy looking! It’s a great value and joy to drive. I got the dealer to tint the front 2 windows. The warranty is 6 years / 72,000 miles. It is a turbo so we will see how that works out, but i trade every 2 years anyway. I get tons of compliments and it’s very refined. I just put 5000 enjoyable miles driving from Oklahoma to California and back for vacation. No problems.
I got my 2019 RAV4 XLE very nice 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼l really like it...
Just bought the RAV4 limited. Had the same Honda civic for 10 years that I got for high school grad. Gonna pick up the new Rav this week. Thanks for the review it helped me a lot
Curious bc I'm shopping and noob. What tipped you to RAV v. other choices in the end? Thx
@@DosageConsulting as soon as i drove it i knew i wanted it. the only thing i don't like about it is that the engine isnt very powerful but i dont need crazy acceleration or anything like that. its an awesome vehicle.
Nice Highlander. Every generation grows !
The summer of 2019 we rented a 2019 Adventurer RAV4. It was a gas model of course.
We needed a small SUV for our weekly vacation and we rented it from our dealer.
We were both pleasantly surprised at how much gas mileage we got out of it and we did NOT drive on all freeways.
We did a lot of two lane highway and back roads with it. We had an overall mileage of 32mpg.
So we rented a RAV4 for the next two summers after that. In 2020 we had an XLE Gas motor.
(Same destination vacation wise...same roads, etc)
Same good gas mileage but it was lower end gizmo wise. The 7 inch screen. No JBL, etc.
Last year (2021) we rented a Limited RAV4 gas model. Much nicer. It had the Weather Package but no Tech Package.
Still, it was comfortable and of course decent gas mileage of 32mpg overall.
Plus this one had the JBL system and a 8 inch screen.
To me the best 'Test Drives' are when you rent or have a loaner for at least a week.
You can really play with a vehicle when you have that amount of time.
So this year when we go on vacation again we are going to take OUR new RAV4 Limited Hybrid with both the Tech & Weather Packages.
(No more Rentals....lol)
Plus it came with the Pano-Roof. The Passenger seat is now powered. The screen is now 9 inches.
Of course I wish it had a few things more in it.
For example: A HUD, Power Mirrors connected to the Seat Memory, a 110v plug like the Adventurer has.
I figured it is a Limited then it should have ALL those things.
But, all in all it is a decent vehicle that should last us 15 years and probably longer.
Our 2007 Camry XLE with its 6 cylinder is running just fine. Minimal repairs on that car as well.
I was strongly considering the Venza Limited until I realized it does not have Dials/Knobs for the Radio and the HVAC system.
That was a deal killer but, everything else about the Venza is wonderful.
I had one of those for two days as a loaner and it impressed me with its near Lexus Like Ride...
But have a RAV4 Hybrid is a good thing now a days with high gas prices.
Plus we 'Lucked Out' and only had to wait 6 months to take delivery.
I believe now it is more toward a year of wait time and two years on the Prime.
Love your reviews, when the RAV4 Prime comes out, I look forward to that review
Great review as always. One thing I do like to note that is missing is the discussion of the driver safety and assistance tech that comes standard in all trims of this car. Diver assistance, lane tracing (basically steering assist) is probably one of the best in the class. Most competitors only do radar cruise control but no lane tracing. It makes a huge difference in day to day driving.
I don't always watch videos full screen, but with your theatrical intros, always.
I enjoy your reviews because you first evaluate who the vehicle is targeted to and then you base your review on that.
Love your music selection at 2:30. LOL
i choke drinking my coffee when i saw that
Who does not like an Honest Review? Always enjoy these reviews, even if I would never buy the vehicle in questioned.
I’m hoping the engine and transmission issues you pointed out are resolved in the RAV4 Prime coming out later this year (summer?) Looking forward to an update!
The RAV4 Prime transmission will be an eCVT, not the 8-Speed Automatic seen in this review that drives the gas only model. This eCVT is part of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy system has a good reputation for reliability after many years of proven service. It is a planetary gear transmission, not the type with pulleys and belts that many drivers dislike.
Savagegeese recommended the Hybrid model to minimize the 4-Cylinder engine noise from the gas only model. The RAV4 Prime is obviously a hybrid, but also keep in mind that the first 40 miles of driving will be all-electric. The only noise you will hear at that time will be the whine of the electric motors and any wind or road noise that penetrates the cabin.
In the car manufacturing business, trying to create a quiet cabin is done by designing a vehicle with NVH as a focus. NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) are a primary emphasis when a quiet cabin is desired. Unfortunately, Toyota did not place much priority on NVH when they designed the 2019 and 2020 RAV4. Their focus was on keeping the price down and keeping it as lightweight as possible for better MPGs. There is no double-pane (laminated) windshield or front window glass. There is very little sound proofing material under the hood or on the firewall between the engine and cabin. This lack of substantial sound proofing is found throughout the vehicle. This is why many reviewers complain about the engine noise. Since the electric motors in a hybrid are quieter than a small gas engine under stress, they hybrid will be quieter during take-off and at low speeds.
The lead engineer at Toyota has stated that NVH was a focus in designing the 2020 Highlander. While not directly stating it, he did say the re-design of the RAV4 had other priorities.
Finally, the RAV4 Prime is a 2021 model. Toyota should have realized that users complained about engine and road noise in the 2019 and 2020 models. Ideally, they would have placed more emphasis on NVH for 2021. I kind of doubt they did that, however. Since the RAV4 Prime will have an even heavier battery than the regular hybrid, it will already weigh much more. I doubt they will add much soundproofing material. Just a little would help, so let's hope they did.
it just need an ECU reprogramm, some people have already done that and its ok
There isn't really an issue, is just how it works because it's direct shift. It won't break
This channel is documentary level professionalism 👍
Damn that intro was niiice.
What was the song you used called?
"You Make It Easier" (OTE)
@@devonnewest7990 Thank you!
Another perfection of a video....
I would confidently vote this video as the best production anywhere on TH-cam.
Superbe job Savage....
Keep Savaging .... ;)
I swear every 2020 Toyota FWD Trans feels like Eco mode always lol
We’ll be shopping for a RAV4 in about 18 months. We decided to go with the RAV4 because like you said, it has been almost perfectly engineered as the perfect appliance. And that’s all we want out of the car, for it to do it’s job. Honda, Nissan, and Subaru were axed off our list because of their CVT transmission. We may occasionally (once a year) two a light trailer and we prefer to have fixed gears for that duty. We strongly considered Mazda but they got axed because of space, or the lack thereof. We’re going for the RAV4 Adventure because of its looks and 3,500 lb towing capacity.
Where is scott? All your videos now in the shop is without scott.
A friends mom bought the new es and gave it back after a few months of taking it to the dealer due to the transmission. She only drove city but said the down shifts were violent and felt to rough for a luxury car. She ended up buying an older model with the 6 speed as they were a lot smoother
How do you translate ''joy to drive''? Does it mean acceleration un 5sec to 60mph? Or what is the main criteria to ''joy'' ? Good review btw.
Mikijs Mauss i don’t get it either. I’ve had sport cars my whole life. I switched it up and got a crv. Was miserable and tried the RAV4 and couldn’t be happier. I love driving it.
According to me, the joy of driving is the feeling you get on a winding road when you have direct control of the car direction using your feet and hands. It is difficult to achieve it with an Aisin/Toyota automatic transmissions as much as, in the Hybrid variant, with the mediation of an "eCVT" between your left foot and the engine pushing the wheels forward. Nevertheless I just ordered an Hybrid RAV4 to replace my rear wheels drive BMW with manual transmission, which is cosidered to be a great setup to achieve joy of driving: I was at the point of ordering a rear wheels drive Alfa Romeo Stelvio, but I was too nauseated by the diesel engines we have everywhere here in Europe. I just wanted a new game to play: ECO efficiency 😉
What great reviews. Magnificent. So professional, logical, detailed, serious, knowledgeable, and on and on..... Thank you!
You mentioned the redesigned AWD system being far better than the old front to back systems. Would be interested to know how you feel it compares to Subaru's setup. I personally love the Subi AWD system but their cars as underpowered as FK.
I've had one of these for two weeks as a rental. Agree a lot with what you said. Low point is how outdated the infotainment feels. If feels like something out of 2005. Also, my rental had a lot of interior buzz and rattles surpisingly. I was suprised how cheap overall the interior felt.
Interior cutouts and space wasted. I'd just gut it out. There's hidden closed cavities in the rear for crash safety as well. To me they relied on designers and didn't expand the envelope to give you all the space. It can be cramped. I don't do infotainment. I need a CD/radio and a speedometer.
I can literally see whole a/c section move when you press a button or plastic around the gear lever is pushing down while you pushing down the buttons. I mean, what solid feel are you talking about?
I work at a Toyota dealership the ac buttons feel very good
I mean. If you look in the videos he pushes pretty dam hard. All plastic is gonna give to some degree.
Bought this car and returned it. Felt cheap for a limited hybrid at $37K.
@@joeyt6547 that's why it feels good
@@_gramcrakka_82 Not all of them will give in, Honda's interior doesn't, it's not just the question of quality, it's the design, there is not enough support for a/c controls. I believe the car will run forever -bcs it's a toyota- but it will rattle like hell also.
My mom, who's been a lincoln continental and land yacht lady her whole life, is actually interested in this as a retirement vehicle. Its amazing just the amount of people interested in this thing. Youd think she'd want a ct6 or modern continental or s class or other modern land yacht, but nope, just a little rav4
3 years later this trim is now $45,000
After my 17 CRV had its injectors, head gasket and turbo replaced I wanted out of it ASAP. As a 20 year Honda Acura guy I decided to expand my horizons and test drive a bunch of different brands. At the end the RAV4 hybrid was tied at the top of my list. The seats were a deal breaker, the short cushions absolutely killed my legs. Same with the Forrester- folding chair seats- painful.
Ended up with a ASPEC RDX. Thanks SG!
I drove one a few weeks ago and thought the ride was really harsh.
mr. savagegeese. Long time watcher, first time commenter. I LOOOOVE your editing. It's seriously the best out of any reviewer.
Dude your production is amazing...this also just a really really good car
Your music choice is just spot on, as always
This Toyota and the Mazda CX-5 are price / quality the best cars in their class.
I bought the Mazda because I personally think it looks nicer..
I would go with the RAV4 instead because the Mazda lacks cargo area.
@@stevensevek6151 Yes, if you need the extra space. I have more than enough with the trunk in the Mazda. This is also a personal choice
@@P.daniele
I like enough room to sleep in the back. So at least 72 inches from the back of the front seats to the liftgate.
The Mazda is much more feminine and car like, IMO. The rav is more rugged so they appeal to both main suv buyers.
Excellent review. I purchased a 2020 adventure in lunar rock with weather package. I gotta say... I absolutely love this ride. The engine is a little on the loud side, even for the 2020 (2019 models don’t have sound insulation). That’s my only gripe. I don’t need the horsepower like I did when I was younger. Things that matter to me now are ride quality and the off road prowess of this model. Getting back in the deep desert is no issue for this thing. The different drive modes work phenomenally. Trust me... I’ve put it to the test. As an avid rock climber, I spend a lot of time loading and unloading gear in very remote places. Also, with the seats folded down, it makes for an excellent little camper. I’m 5’9” and have plenty of room to lay down. I love this ride.
I came to the same conclusions on engine, transmission and soul less driving when rented one in LA for a few days.
Got stuck with a 2019 Toyota Camry when I was in LA last summer, I couldn’t figure out how that thing sells so well I couldn’t get that thing to move especially with the AC on almost felt unsafe merging on highways the worst engine sound too.
DIno777x
It was probably a 4 cylinder.
slackerprince1 majority of them are
Bought a ‘20 Hybrid XSE a few weeks ago. We are enjoying it and made sure to credit your channel in the buyer survey. Only wish is that the passenger front seat lowered
You Are Awesome 💪
I Just Love Your Channel 👏 👍 👌
Excellent Reviews and always on point 👊🤔👏😊😎
PEACE ✌️ 👊 😊
Best music of any automotive youtuber. It's similar to my taste, in that I have no idea what to even tell people when they ask me "What kind of music do you listen to?"
Test drove a new Rav4. Got less than a 1/2 mile from dealership and turned around because couldn't stand the thought of putting up with the raw engine noise for the life of the car.
John Ranalletta sounds like you are low on testosterone . I love my raw engine sound in my rav 4. Get over it soy boy !
@@doctorhonda111 LMAOOO
doctorhonda111 - It’s a very unrefined, off-putting engine noise tbh. Imagine the sound of the cheapest, Big Lots-tier blender running on the highest setting while filled with walnuts. That’s how this engine sounds. 🤮
@@doctorhonda111 AMEN! I love the sound of my Rav4.
doctorhonda111 and pigs love slop
The biggest thing I have always liked about your videos is that you put things on a hoist. DUH. All you other car mags, MSM auto journalists....how did you miss this all these years? This was a great review. It attracts the viewer and potential Rav 4 consumer and turns them off at the same time. I might buy one.
It seems that with as good as the whole platform is, all they have to do is offer the V6 again, and this would be the perfect choice. Refined, yet would last for fucking ever.
They're doing it better, look up the RAV4 Prime! 300 HP, plug-in hybrid with a decent ev-only range. Absolute win.
@@gusmartin1246 that is not better. So now you pay significantly more money for EV bs adding more complexity to the vehicle and long term reliability now suffers. Have fun having your Hybrid system getting maintained or fixed.
@@paulj9821 Lol Toyotas have been doing hybrid systems for 20 years. Im sure unlike most of these new companies they know what they are doing.
i am sick and tired of crossovers, but i have to admit Toyota has killed it with this gen
2:43 the HVAC control console flexing like its made of cardboard - so much for solid "quality" Toyota 🤣
I noticed that too. Possible future source of squeaks or rattles
Toyota interiors are crap, rattles and creaks everywhere. The quality is all in the consistent manufacturing process and the engine.
Actually, I feel like Hyundai has the same problem. Excellent reliability, but poor interior build.
Joseph G Hyundai/ Kia make beautiful cars inside and out but I’ve never been impressed with their interior quality they look good but once you start playing around with it you know why they low ball their competition in price. CHEAP everything, I think this is where Mazda beats out every non luxury brand.
@@joa8593 buy a lexus if you want a better and more expensive car,
@@carholic-sz3qv I mean, Honda doesn't have this problem. Toyota cuts corners on the interior, especially since they're gone to the more expensive soft touch and gloss plastics in their newest cars.
out of all the car reviewers. this guy actually explained what a TNGA platform is and the purpose of it.
You forgot to review about dynamic force engine and efficiency compared to the previous engine.
Love the intro! Feels like this free spirit car and a breath of freedom!
That Etch-A-Sketch infotainment screen kills me 🤮
Striker 50 I’m glad they didn’t spend $$$ on infotainment.
@@Loverapten yeah In the end I'd rather have r and d go more into comfort than the infotainment. I meamt all you end up using it for is the radio or Bluetooth.
@@carlosandleon Truth.
I have a RAV4 and now I can't unsee the Etch-A-Sketch lol
@@carlosandleon Rightttttt.... Because it costs 50 billion to make a screen look integrated, tasteful, and not outdated with 4 inch bezels..
The wind closing the doors was my favorite part. Kidding. Excellent review as always. Can't hate it, though I still don't think it would be my top pick. Engine might be the main reason why.
Mazda is about one ninth the size of Toyota yet they can produce something that I think is far more appealing in terms of interior and exterior design plus better driving dynamics.
Yeah but it wont last as long
@@kenadrian27 BS. I've had two Mazda's that were beat to hell and sold with over 100k miles, no problems
@@mostcallmerob cool. my last corolla went to 200k (sold before it broke) and my current one is at 180k
Not many people care about driving dynamics. Otherwise we'd all be driving lotuses.
Had a Mazda 6 that broke down a week after driving it off the lot and had nothing but issues luckily was hit by a drunk driver that totaled it and I was able to drop it for a rav4 and couldn’t be happier
We bought one 3 months ago, one drive in the Rav4 and I was instantly sold. Not only does it look nice inside and out but far more important to us even the base model is loaded with every safety feature under the sun which other manufacturers force you to go up to the higher trim levels to get.
Not Subaru.
@@balton6978 Yes Subau (at least here in Australia) We cross-shopped it with the Outback and in order to get the full suite of safety kit on offer (BSM, RCTA, SVM ect....) you need to step up to the mid-trim in the Outback while all that is standard on the entry model of the Rav4.
@@ryantaylor6530 Oh sorry, for some reason I had the Forester in mind, which even the base model comes with all the safety goodies. Well enjoy your RAV4, they're nice.
@@balton6978 even the forester misses allot of collision-avoidance tech at the lowest tier at least here in Australia although for an extra few grand it is a great option. I have had an Impreza as a 2nd car for years and it has never let me down.
I still prefer the looks of my old 2004 Rav4 and the overall dimensions - I'm not buying the effort to "butch" it up. And does it have to be so long?
It needs to stay competitive. It’s actually the smallest in the segment at 181 inches. Rogue and Santa Fe are much bigger, equinox is 183 inches, CRV 182-1 inches.
@@watchreport I can appreciate that. My old 2004 Rav4 was 167 inches long. The Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tuscon are both 176. I think shorter is better.
@@ryanforprez2008 Shorter is definitely not better when you're trying to lay down in the back and the damn thing is still four inches too damned short. The 4Runner needs to be at least four inches longer for sleeping.
@@bluenetmarketing I hear you can get the Sienna is all-wheel drive :-)
@@ryanforprez2008 I would NEVER have awd. Too many things to break and go wrong. I do NOT want my car driving for me. I want complete control over everything it is doing.
Mr. Savage geese , your reviews are simply the best. I still want the Rav4 dispite the quirky transmission.
2:44 SOLID? Almost the whole panel is shaking
Abdolkarim Mehrparvar it’s not solid but it does have decent suspension assuming it carries over to the lower trims
There is not one new vehicle that has no faults, or should I say so many people comment about it being bad, bad after 50,000 miles, and so many other negatives and complaints. It’s the same with smartphones, watches and so many other products. But, I test drove this, amongst a few others like a Santa Fe, an Equinox, etc and this was the worst. It struggled to get up a little hill on the highway, it felt cheap inside (not the limited trim, but the middle of the road trim), and the infotainment felt so cheap and wobbled, like I could rip it right off the dash. Yet, these are some of the best selling CUV’s out there. So clearly, I am in the minority with my disdain for this vehicle.
@@watchreport what ended up being your favorite?
It's also very possible that what's rattling are all the GoPro mounts, brackets and cameras needed for this video. Or even sections of the panel which weren't designed to be silent while bearing the added weight of such mounts. Always test drive a car yourself to get your own impression.
@@chocolatewheelchair my dad has the lower trim and this car sucks the drivetrain is a mess and the base model has a terrible console
9:50 I love, love that edit (POV stop) for fluid continuous video. A+++
I'm very interested in the Rav4 Prime when it eventually comes out... I'm glad it will be based on this platform, but with that plug in option..
I'm in a Honda clarity phev.
When my lease is up thats probably what I'm going to get into. 300hp in a SUV and 40 mile ev range is honestly the best combo I could think of.
same. I really wanna see this guy review it.
There’s a re-tune for the transmission shift patterns, but I’ve never noticed a problem in any of the ones I’ve driven. Using the different modes helps with being more willing to downshift quickly (Sport Mode). I use the manual mode so it’s in the appropriate gear for what I’m doing- cornering/merging onto highway/putting through parking lot. I think some of the complaints are from people who don’t drive smoothly to begin with- they lag going up the on ramp, and then when they get to the top they floor it in Eco-mode, and then they are alarmed by the 2-step downshift that was hesitant cuz they were in the wrong mode, or they rail the accelerator, and it downshifts and then they back out of the throttle and then the transmission has to abruptly upshift two gears... drive smoothly and intently, and it’s completely fine... bottom line is the transmission is far better than the CVT in some of it’s competitors and will be way more reliable and long lasting.
Regarding the engine noise- I don’t mind it, and the rentals that I’ve driven with more miles on them seem to have smoothed out on the buzziness of the 4-cyl. compared to when they are new. I think during the break-in period they have a buzz from the ECU learning and adjusting timing to adapt to how you drive maybe. But they definitely could use some more sound deadening material and if you ever feel the tinniness of the lightweight hood, I think there is some serious reverberations in the two layers of aluminum hood that transmits that buzzy sound. But in the bigger picture, naturally aspirated 4 cylinders rarely have a beautiful soundtrack anyways... some turbo 4s have some nice induction sound and a great exhaust to create better sounds than what the engine actually sounds like.
joyless describes every SUV/CUV. :(
edit: generally i mean suspension and steering/road feedback. driving on a cloud puts me too sleep
D TOM Mazda CX-5?
D TOM The 2.0's in the Escape, Cherokee, and Mazda is fun though :(
You've never driven a Macan S.
Mazda5, alfa romeo suv thing
This is the whole point of a CUV. Comfortable appliance.
I agree 100% with your last comments/conclusions: a great car but not exiting to drive, specially the acceleration from stop position. And I have one 2020 XLE. Great vid. Thanks
*Scotty has joined the chat*
What happened to Turbowski?
There is no Turbo with the Rav4 so no Turbowski lol
I understand that to people like "SavageGeese", this car is an "appliance" and not fun or enjoyable to drive. However, this car is really nice, and I'm sure many of it's buyers do actually enjoy it.
As he even admitted, the interior is very appealing and thought out, and the average 9-5 person getting into that car is going to enjoy and appreciate that experience. They understand that this isn't a McLaren.
Thank you for mentioning vehicles that are built to keep long term. I’ve been leasing domestics for years, but I’ve been considering getting away from that to buy something and keep it a long time. That thought has led me straight to Toyota and Mazda. A Corolla or Camry may be boring, but it’s a safe bet that your satisfaction with it will only grow as time passes. Mazda sticks with a good engine and transmission and wraps beautiful bodywork and interiors around it. Efforts like that attracts customers and sells cars more than some bullshit marketing (I’m looking at you, Potsch and Chevrolet).
Brilliant review all around. And made me crack up!