VARIANTS

· Toyota RAV4 - basic model in 3 versions: hybrid with A25A-FXS (deforced to 177 PS), front electric motor 3NM (120 PS) and rear motor 4NM (54 PS), with Ni-Mh battery; pure gasoline with M20A-FKS (2.0 CVT 175 PS) and A25A-FKS (2.5 8AT 205 PS).
· Toyota Wildlander - restyled version for chinese market.
· Mitsuoka Buddy - old-timer-style version.
· Toyota RAV4 PHV / PHEV / Prime - plug-in hybrid with large Li-ion battery and front motor 5NM (180 PS), for JAP/EUR/USA markets.
· Suzuki Across - slightly restyled PHEV version for Europe.
· Toyota Harrier - closely related model, in fact a cross-coupe based on the standard RAV4 (2.0 CVT and 2.5 HV)
· Toyota Venza - only hybrid version of Harrier for US market.
· Lexus NX - closely related 'premium' model: in addition to hybrid (A25A-FXS + 3NM/4NM), PHEV (A25A-FXS + 5NM/4NM) and gasoline A25A-FKS, turbo was added T24A-FTS (2.4 8AT 278 PS) with slightly modified DTC 4WD.

Static view

EXTERIOR


The XA50 literally destroyed its predecessor at the New York premiere on the morning of March 28, 2018. In the autumn of 2019 local Toyota dealers finished it off by itself - established advertising campaign on the strong opposition of the new generation and "the old rav".


In general, the exterior is relevant, adequate, moderately brutal, somewhat echoes the real Toyota SUVs of the American market. It looks best on renderings, for photos and videos it needs the right angles, in life it seems easier, more compact and rougher. The default "sad" version of the front end adds dejection (as opposed to the more positive Adventure-style).


We support the opinion that the model looks better in light and medium colors, and dark colors spoil the designer's game of contrasts and complex shapes. The most controversial color is cheap-look blue 8W9. Rather, out of politeness it is called "hmm, interesting", but let's be honest: nice blue is bmw C1M, vw LB5K... but Toyota is simply using the boundless loyalty of its fans.


INTERIOR


The first impression of the interior familiar from photographs is that Toyota's specialists have mastered image processing technologies well.

Probably, the Japanese tried to play on the lack of visual contrast between the main array of hard plastic and new materials of the top, giving similar texture to the upholstery and soft plastic of the upper part of the panel. They really managed to avoid contrast - on a real car, the entire interior looks equally poor.


To a large extent, because "you can have any color you want, so long as it's black" (H.Ford) - local Toyota does not offer the choice of interior colors even in top trim levels.


The "improved" finish, for all its "softness", seems no better or more pleasant to touch than $6 working boots, which have exactly the same texture of materials.


With regard to the plastic of the lower part of the saloon and luggage compartment, "hard" does not mean "durable" - even on demo cars, it instantly becomes covered with an abundance of scratches and abrasions.

The steering wheel is covered with some tactile-strange material. It is not worth to repeat banal phrases about rubberized switches and door handrails - only from experience, all similar soft-touch plastics decompose after a few years with the release of an indelible sticky substance.

For those who still remember the quality of Japanese cars of the late 80s - early 90s, the primitive fabric of modern Toyota seats will always seem pathetic. But even objectively - the cloth of RAV4 seats has a frankly ugly texture, is thin on the sidewalls, and does not please with tactile sensations. Therefore, the desire of the owners to install additional custom covers can be understood and supported.



As for the workmanship and the overall feeling... We have to remember that in the global reality, RAV4 is a mass crossover with a starting price of $24,100, from which you should not expect miracles. And Toyota deliberately made it more primitive and cheaper in order to leave free grades of quality and premium for related Harrier/Venza, Highlander and Lexus NX... but still, the interior might not be so deliberately loose.

Perhaps, compared to models for third-world-countries, things are not bad, but German cars have entered our lives deeply enough so that absolutely everyone can find out what a truly thoughtful, modern and non-premium salon should be - against this background, Toyota has just left the stone age.


DRIVER - ERGONOMICS, VISIBILITY


We can have a different attitude to the modern VW, but special appreciation is given to the fact that throughout all the years of its existence, the compact Tiguan demonstrates the failure of Japanese "specialists" in the layout and ergonomics of salons. Some of them could to compensate the inability to organize the internal space by this space sufficient reserve... but Toyota has 永田秀明, takumi and aggravated mania to lower the center of gravity.

Even if do not immerse in anthropology and socio-cultural characteristics, but take a more comfortable Japanese classmate (Forester) for comparison, the difference of RAV4 is visible:


The height of the roof and the angle of inclination of the front pillar together give a cumulative effect: the absolute difference in height from 40 mm turns to 60 in the front part, the pillar at eye level is 120 mm closer to the driver. At the same time: RAV4 floor height above the ground is a few mm higher, the steering wheel installed 25 mm lower, the maximum leg space for the driver is 55 mm less. The result is a little predictable.

RAV4 is one of the rare cases when a comfortable high fit position is hindered not by a small seat lift upwards or a low steering wheel, but by a low roof. At the entrance and exit, each time have to either bow to the doorway. It is impossible to take a "command position" in principle - otherwise, the forward view becomes similar to a picture from a head-on GoPro-cam: the view to the right is blocked by a mirror, to the left - by the thick upper part of the front pillar (at eye level, just turns out to be the stamp "SRS airbag").


In order for the eye level to be where the Japanese planned it, we have to fall down, lift knees and sit with a minimum area of support on the seat cushion. And even so, the angular size of the "thin" front pillar because of its proximity to the driver does not seem so small.


Objectively, in a vertical projection, the field of view under the mirror is 30 mm less, and in front of the driver all 50 mm less than in Forester.

However, this case is individual: fans of a low or lying position may not even notice such an inconvenience that is so critical for us (but why would they need a relatively tall and wobbly crossover?) Driver with height below average fits without special claims, and driver below 1.70 dwells delighted and asks to be scribed in "toyota ergonomics schoolbook".

A couple of positive points - a surprisingly good chair (moderately soft, moderately anatomical on the backrest, but with a traditionally short and flat cushion) and the side glass line finally extended downwards (Land Rover is still infinitely far away, but at least there is no painful desire to lift up the door sill to the level of the driver's shoulder or ear).

The visibility of the rear hemisphere is worse than would expect from the outside, the usefulness of the interior mirror is relative, but the "rearview digital mirror" is not offered for local market.


The next surprise from the Japan is the center console raised by 100 mm compared to the previous generation and the ugly swollen in width. Sometimes such a layout can be explained by the desire to set the constantly used joystick or touchpad of multimedia under the driver's fingers, but here the practical meaning is completely absent.


As well as the lack of a sense of spaciousness - in comparison with modern classmates, here is one of the most "(de)pressing" interiors for the driver. It's funny that in the RHD version for the right leg a noticeably larger space is left to the door than in the LHD version to the center console. An elementary transfer from a driver's seat to a passenger seat and back also turned into a complex acrobatic sketch.

By the way, other asian classmates with less hypertrophied consoles obtain a soft pieces in the area of contact with the legs of the driver and passenger. But in the case of the RAV4 Toyota is above such trifles.

According to the Toyota press-release, the plastic "cockpit" itself should create a feeling of comfort and premiumness... but in fact, even the owners of the XA40 note a decrease in space. "Sporty style"? - This is a utilitarian everyday family crossover (there are many more synonyms), where the only "sport" is the mode button near the selector lever. Not to mention the fact that in urban conditions the architecture of the old CR-V or minivans is much more appropriate and practical.




PASSENGER


Most of all in this car, the person next to the driver is lucky: without a steering wheel and pedals, he can comfortably sit in such a chair with a minimum of adjustments, visibility is enough, the front of saloon is quieter and has less vertical accelerations, there is an own climate zone...


REAR SEAT


Reviewers usually show how much space is left in front of the knees and above the head, the slightly inclined seatback... but miss important detail - the rear seat cushion is set 40-50 mm lower than that of other classmates: as a result headroom is excessive, but sitting is as uncomfortable as in large frame-based SUVs with a high floor level.

In fairness, with growth below 1.70, the length and height of the cushion is already enough. But passengers of even more compact sizes, in turn, note a high window line at the rear and would also like to sit upper.

Test-drive

2.0 CVT - ACCELERATION, SOUND

Local version


"The superbly tuned CVT provides instant response and excellent accelerator reactions, allowing you to drive fast and confidently, the two-liter engine is quieter and don't loose to its older bro in feel of dynamics" - the standard description of Toyota 2.0 CVT nature in local press (if you do not want to be blacklisted by the PR department of local Toyota).

In fact, journalists / bloggers simply do not say the necessary condition: you need to drive as they do - along empty winding roads among the hills, without lowering the tachometer needle below the middle of the scale.

But what is good for a mountain road with alternating sharp short accelerations and decelerations without a complete stop (and with a complete absence of traffic) - in real conditions is only annoying. The main problem is the sound: the engine is quiet until 2, at 2-3 it already noticeable rumbling, at 3-4 - noisy, at 4-5 - shouts in a full-loud voice.

In the conditional "new city" location, with fairly straight and wide roads, long running sections and a maximum speed of over 80 - it is difficult to accelerate smoothly at low rpms, at the first opportunity the engine speed rise up, after the termination of the acceleration drops only to 3-4 and then go down slowly to the norm (in readiness to provide the next "sure" acceleration... although you need only accelerate smoothly and gently roll at a speed of traffic flow to the next intersection).

In the "old city", with an abundance of traffic lights and 90-degree turns, narrow streets, artificial irregularities and pedestrian-passings, maximum speeds of 50-60 - things are really bad. Literally every pressing of the gas pedal is accompanied by annoying rattling of the engine (which does not even try to stay in zone below 2k rpms), acceleration by a measly 10 km/h throws rpms into zone 3-4, a couple of too sharp starts from a standstill to 60 - and the electronics begins to imitate a skidding transmission with 5-6k rpm, almost always the roar of the engine lasts several times longer than the actual vehicle speed raise takes...

In other modes, 2.0 does not seems excellent: acceleration from a stand and rolling start from low rpms are sad, long overtaking is frighteningly sad. The most positive moment is the cruising rpms (about 2 at 120-130).

It's hard to say whether Toyota only declared a tax-reasonable 149 PS or really cut the torque at high rpms, but objectively local 2.0 CVT make 0-100 in more than 12 sec - as it should be for a 150PS class slowpoke.

EU version


The global version 2.0 CVT has seemingly small differences, which eventually made its own character.

When full-accelerating from the stand, the "euro" only shifts the imaginary gear once and then keeps rpms at maximum up to the driver's moral limit, while ru- regularly changes the pseudo-gears. If it is caused by hp difference or the CVT settings are enough, but eu-2.0 in any case make 0-100 at least two seconds faster (better then 11 from specs). There are approximately the same differences in the operation of the CVT while full-throttle rolling start.

With smooth accelerations, on the contrary, the "euro" makes attempts to stay on the low rpms as often as possible and drop tacho needle faster after acceleration (in the urban rhythm you can move normally without rpms rise above 3-4).

Suspiciously modest fuel consumption can be explained by the same rpm feature, as well as more thorough settings (Euro-6d and eco-alarmism oblige).


2.5 8AT - ACCELERATION, SOUND


Nice power figures give rise to the most optimistic expectations, but... There is a hint of torque at low rpm, cruising rpm also are normal (a little less than 2), overtakes are obviously easier. However, dropped speeds offhand occurs, unnecessary rpm raise to 4-5+, some hesitations, delays and jerks in the first gears and low speed.

Trying to drive more "actively" gives a very unpleasant result - the behavior of 8AT becomes almost like an actual CVT, and a bacchanalia of constantly high rpms is accompanied by unbearable sound effects.

We are accustomed to the other side of the classic ATs - smooth shifts, an rpm range of 1-2-3 in the usual drive rhythm, timely upshifts, good roll-over... However, if do not press the accelerator too much, this AT can behave in a proper way. So let 2.0 "accelerate without delays" - 2.5, if necessary, has time to think, shift, roar, catch up and overtake. And for our understanding of comfort, the automatic "dynamics on demand" fits much better than the annoying "constant readiness" of the CVT.

Although as for comfort... With an increase in revolutions, high tones appear in the engine voice, turning into a screech, and a certain vibrating note (as it is precisely noticed - a "puncher drill"). So over time, the subconscious mind somehow resists the sharp or deep pressing of the accelerator pedal. But according to objective measurements (in the kangaroo country), 2.5 is not louder than 2.0 - rather, they have some different timbre and tone, and during normal driving the rpms and corresponding background noise of 2.5 are lower, therefore, the roar on acceleration seems especially contrast.

Objectively, the RAV4 goes exactly like all Japanese classmates: with a 8.5 in specs, it very tightly leaves 10; overtaking 60-110 - in a little less than 7. True, many of these analogs have two dozen hp less... but Toyota "plays as she can".

A conventional hybrid runs better by about a second, and PHV shows 6 sec to 100.

Rem. Reliable results for the American and Australian versions - 9.4-9.5 when accelerating from two pedals. The worst results are at the level of 10.2-10.5 from one pedal. So for any reviewer who suddenly improves these times, certain questions arise. Although... honesty and objectivity are not the best qualities for those who want to receive invitations to Toyota press tours and take a car from the Toyota press park for review.


ENGINE NOISE - COMPARISON

Upd. If true Toyota fans believe that things are not as bad with noise as everyone thinks, then it is worth clearly identifying several reference points (as applied to urban locations).

Toyota 1.2T CVT. Funny, but driving gives feeling of even more thoroughbred car. The dynamics are unexpectedly comparable to 2.0 RAV4 (while there is much less power and torque per weight unit), the turbine gives acceptable thrust at the low rpms. The engine is definitely quieter in all modes. Fewer suspension sounds.

VW and Škoda 1.5TSI DSG. A huge contrast: if RAV4 (while accelerating) fightes the world every second and informs the driver about it, then the German and the Czech simply move through the space faster. The engine has enough low-rpm thrust for urban maneuvers; with a sharp acceleration a short, non-irritating growl is hearing - and the speedometer already shows the limit of penalized speeds; at the first opportunity, it shifts to overdrive and revs drops. Acceleration times are better than the RAV4 2.5, not to mention the 2.0. Bonus: soundless suspension and an amazing sense of solidity.

VW and Škoda 1.4TSI DSG. It would seem, what a difference can be from 1.5, especially the model is half-class higher? - but no, almost everything is a little worse: the engine voice is louder, the shifting is not so perfect, there is more road noise in the saloon.

Nissan 2.0 CVT. The dynamic is not so bad here, how much less noise from the engine. Firstly, at 2-3k rpm zone it is quieter than all other Japanese naturally aspirated engines. Secondly, relatively noisy 3-4+ rpms are reached only at really sharp accelerations. True, all other sounds are heard better than even in RAV4.

Mitsubishi 1.5T CVT. Strange, but there was neither the expected silence, nor the confident thrust promised by journalists... only the rattling of the engine and the twitching of the CVT. One of the few cases where the RAV4's powertrain seems clearly more adequate.

Mitsubishi 2.0 CVT. Some duality: at the low revs it behaves even a little better and quieter than RAV4, at the high - the power is frankly lacking, the CVT sticks and gets confused.

Subaru 2.0 and 2.5 CVT. The engines are also loud, they also make noise already from 2-3 zone, but at least their voice timbre is smoother and the squeal appears at the very top, in 5-6 zone. In the limit, the dynamics of RAV4 may be slightly better, but in easier modes, Subaru produces more thrust per conventional "unit of noise". And you can even move around the city (although it looks very dull), without raising the rpms to a noisy zone, which Toyota does not allow in principle.

Hyundai 2.0D 8AT. Excellent traction in the entire range of reasonable speeds, suspiciously low noisy inside, dynamics is better than rav4-2.5. Note: as successful Korean diesels are, as stable and endless is series of shameful failures of their gasoline natural-aspirated engines.

Renault 1.3T CVT. On the one hand, it is quieter than the Toyota 2.0, and thrusts well. On the other hand, it does not leave a feeling of working with a great effort - even if the engine is "by Mercedes", but there is no German confidence and precision. And there are also enough unnecessary sounds - both from the suspension and from the interior itself.

Mazda 2.5 6AT. Here it is! - unattainable for Toyota, the ideal coordination between naturally aspirated engine and automatic transmission. The engine reminds of itself only during intense acceleration, and its voice is not nasty, but even a pleasant. Low-rpm thrust, gear shifts, operating rpms - everything is exactly as it should be. Bonus: fewer sounds from wheels and suspension - the feeling of a more solid and high-quality car.


BRAKING


It is possible that the absence of any impressions is the best characteristic of the brakes, since any noticeable trait usually turns out to be more or less negative.
Objective data are at a decent level, even with a modest size and traditionally simple design of brake mechanisms.


RIDE COMFORT


On the new platform, the RAV4 has confidently surpassed not only expectations, but the average level in its class - nothing like overexcessive stiffness of the previous generation.

It would be even better without the extra inches of rim diameter and acoustic effects. In general, the suspension performs best on rough tarmac or gravel, does not perfectly filter-out small irregularities of a quality surface, and in any case, it is not silent.


STEERING


Subjectively - there are no questions either to effort, or to "purity", or to torque-steer effect... And it will be difficult to find competitors in terms of the ratio of suspension softness and steering quality - models that are more pleasant to drive are noticeably stiffer, right up to discomfort.


OFF-ROAD


It took fifteen years for Toyota to get the secret of the proper differential lock emulation by brakes (clamping a skid wheel quickly, strongly and for a long time). Transformed RAV4 immediately became one of the leaders of the crossover class, since its other abilities are normal (normal clearance, not too low front bumper). It is enough for the driver to press the pedal and remember about the MTS switch.

By irony, new opportunities are most interested for reporters and half-percent of ORD-enthusiasts. Most of real owners press the mode selection buttons first and last time on the day of purchase.

It is worth emphasizing that in terms of cross-country ability, not only the new DTV looks normal, but also, in comparison with previous generations, the classic DTC became much better.


NOISE


We hope that no one has any special illusions that cars are sent to the ru-press parks and ru-dealer test drives in the same state in which they came off the assembly line?

In an ordinary client car, the suspension makes noise at low speeds (largely due to the heavy wheels) and tyres create a main background (summer tyres - uncritical, winter studded tyres - very noticeable). Echoes of aerodynamic noise appear even in the city, then it only gain strength, and on the verge of reasonable speeds argue with the engine. Which, given its heartbreaking roar on acceleration, is not easy.

For some reason, the dealer's test-drive car behaves otherwise - from the knock of external door handles and slammed doors. Without unnecessary sound from the wheels and the suspension, the car's ride seems much smoother. The engine is heard in a slightly different tone and discomfort rpms are higher - so that the illusion of a more confident acceleration is created. From the "wind concert" remains that component that penetrates through the glass.

All this gives reason to think about additional noise insulation, but another $600-1000 +, several tens of kilograms of weight, warranty issues, and most importantly - interference of local masters in the Japanese car without any urgent need...


GRADES AND PRICES

· 2.0i CVT DTC or 2.0i CVT DTV for +10%? Even if the DTV comes with power seat, eco-leather, front parking sensors and, most importantly, a luminous multi-terrain select controller, the ongoing technical problems of a too crude 4WD are not worth it.

· 2.0i CVT DTC or 2.5i 8AT DTC for +10%? This question must be solved after a guaranteed elimination of AT control unit software, but 2.5 is more interesting.

On paper the basic 2.0i CVT DTC version seems to be sufficient (by the way, without the previously mentioned extra options, it would cost below psychologically comfortable k$30). Plus $300-400 for painting, since the "free" 040 color is suitable only as a base for vinyl film.

But according to the test results, the advantages of 2.5 8AT become obvious. Maybe the euro-2.0 has a right to exist, but the local basic version leaves the aftertaste of noisy bustling helplessness... Equivalent of about eight years medium salary or a full-size apartment in province should provide at least a little bit of positive emotions and confidence.

Rem. In any case, it is worth remembering that Toyota originally built the new RAV4 primarily as a hybrid, therefore, purely gasoline versions are only a sublimation. This became especially noticeable after release of PHV / Prime, which, both on paper and in life, turned out to be the best in the family.

General list of recognized defects and features of RAV4 family vehicles T-SB-0077-19 r1 03.07.2019 Flutter/Rattle Noise From HV Battery Cooling Fan 2019 RAV4 HV Vehicles may exhibit a flutter/rattle noise during operation from the HV battery cooling fan. A new HV battery intake duct has been developed. Prescription: replace HV battery intake duct (G92D1-42010 ⇒ G92D1-42020) T-SB-0086-19 r2 24.07.2019 AWD Warning Light ON With DTC C13F800 2019-2020 RAV4 Vehicles may exhibit an AWD Warning Light ON condition with DTC C13F800 (4WD/AWD Rear Disconnect System Performance) present. Prescription: replace the differential carrier assembly with a modified one (for DTV) (41110-42050, 41110-42051 ⇒ 41110-42052) T-SB-0107-19 15.08.2019 Hesitation On Acceleration From a Slow Roll or Rolling Stop 2019 RAV4 Vehicles may exhibit a hesitation on acceleration from a slow roll or rolling stop under all of the following conditions: 6 mph or below, Immediately following a 3–1 downshift, Less than 40% accelerator pedal application. ECM logic has been modified to reduce the potential for hesitation. Prescription: engine ECU reprogramming. CP-00166T-TME 31.10.2019 GF2A transfer: Abnormal noise during driving at low speed RAV4 - AXAA54, MXAA54 Noise (mooing) of the front cam clutch operation (at transfer case). Cause - cam clutch magnet slip stick due to contamination with wear products. Prescription: replacement of the cam clutch solenoid assembly (41406-42010). T-TT-0580-19 04.11.2019 UA80/UB80 Transmission Side Cover Leak 2019-2020 RAV4 Leaks at the joint of the transmission 'side cover'. Status: under investigation. CP-00164T-TME 20.11.2019 RAV4 - Hybrid Battery Blower Motor Fan noise RAV4 HV Prescription: replace HV battery cooling fan assy (G9230-33050) T-SB-0019-20 r2 03.03.2020 Abnormal Buzz/Groan Noise at 20-30 mph From Front Transfer Case 2019-2020 RAV4 RAV4 Adventure and Limited grade AWD vehicles may exhibit an abnormal buzz/groan noise from the front transfer case at 20-30 mph when accelerating from a stop and/or at 20–13 mph on deceleration after driving the vehicle for 15–20 minutes or more. This condition occurs with Normal drive mode selected during disconnect/connect timing of the AWD system. Prescription: replace front transfer case electro-magnetic clutch assembly (04000-28142, repair kit). BO-00230T-TME 07.04.2020 Abnormal noise from accelerator pedal assembly (Vibration noise) RAV4 Prescription: replace pedal position sensor assy (78110-33140 ⇒ 78110-33141) T-TT-0529-19 01.05.2020 HV Transaxle (Abnormal Noise/Vibration) 2019-2020 RAV4 HV Possibility of abnormal noise/vibration from the hybrid transaxle. T-SB-0045-20 07.05.2020 Hybrid Warning With DTC U011087 and U029387 in Freezing Temperatures 2019-2020 RAV4 HV Vehicles may experience a difficult-to-start condition accompanied by a hybrid system warning lamp occurring during below-freezing temperatures. This condition may occur at initial start-up after a short-distance drive. DTC U011087 and U029387 may be present, because of the IGCT relay not being able to supply power to HV ECU. Prescription: replace IGCT relay (90987-02025) #4748 21.05.2020 Front Lower Arm Replacement on RAV4 RAV4 Safety recall for vehicles produced in autumn of 2019 due to a defect of the front suspension lower arms: cracks may appear and propagate which may cause destruction of the arm and separation from the wheel (mainly if frequently operated with intense accelerations and decelerations). Prescription: replacement of the lower arms. T-TT-0559-19 27.05.2020 Click Noise at Approximately 20-30 mph 2019 RAV4 Adventure/Limited grade vehicles equipped with torque vectoring AWD system. Customers may experience a clicking type noise at approximately 20-30 mph with Normal or ECO drive mode selected. T-TT-0614-20 28.05.2020 A25A Engines - MIL ON and/or Coolant Leak from Water Pump 2020 RAV4/RAV4 HV Models equipped with A25A-FKS or A25A-FXS engine may exhibit a MIL ON with DTCs P26CB71, P26CA14, P26CA31 and/or coolant leak from electric water pump body or electrical connector. Status: under investigation. 20SMD-006 04.06.2020 Front Lower Arm Replacement on RAV4 RAV4 Safety recall for vehicles produced in autumn of 2019 due to a defect of the front suspension lower arms: cracks may appear and propagate which may cause destruction of the arm and separation from the wheel (mainly if frequently operated with intense accelerations and decelerations). Prescription: replacement of the lower arms. T-SB-0061-20 16.06.2020 Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Light ON With DTC C05D604 2019-2020 RAV4/RAV4 HV Vehicles may experience a red or yellow EPS light ON condition with DTC C05D604 present when starting the vehicle or while driving. The EPS logic in the EPS gear assembly ECU has been modified to reduce the possibility of this condition. Prescription: reprogram the EPS gear assembly BE-00214T-TME 03.07.2020 Hybrid Ready Mode not possible (DTCs U0110, U0293) at -10 Celsius Degrees RAV4 HV - AXAH52, AXAH54 Hybrid error messages and difficulties to go to "Ready Mode" under the following conditions: aAmbient temperatures is -10 Celsisus degrees or below. Vehicle is exposed to this temperature for several hours, typically, overnight parking outdoor. Vehicle is driven for short period (10-15 minutes) after cold start and then, vehicle is voluntarily stopped by customer for another 15 minutes approximately. After that, Hybrid error messages might be displayed and might be difficult or impossible to go to "Ready Mode". Multiple DTCs might be triggered, normally U0110 and U0293. After dealer proceeds to DTC Clear or after waiting time of 45-60 minutes, phenomenon disappears. Production change: material of IGCT Relay is changed to prevent icing effect and avoid subject phenomenon (90987-02025 ⇒ 90987-02031) T-SB-0067-20 08.07.2020 Abnormal Noise From Rear Differential During Connect/Disconnect Operation 2019-2020 RAV4 DTV AWD vehicles may exhibit an abnormal noise from the rear differential assembly when accelerating from a stop and/or on deceleration after driving the vehicle for 15–20 minutes or more. This condition occurs with Normal drive mode selected during disconnect/connect timing of the AWD system. Prescription: replace differential carrier assembly (DTV) (41110-42050, 41110-42051, 41110-42052 ⇒ 41110-42053) CP-00381T-TME 13.07.20 3 knocks in row during decelaration RAV4 AXAA54 Prescription: replace the rear differential carrier with the next modification (41110-42050/42051/42052 ⇛ 41110-42053/42080). The external symptoms of the defect are a rather wide set of noises during the cam clutch operation (buzz, groan, ratchet, grinding, bang, and, the most typical, single-double-triple clunk). CP-00426T-TME 04.08.2020 MIL ON due to Air Fuel Ratio Sensor No 2 (DTC P013616 ,P042000) RAV4/RAV4 HV AXAH52, AXAH54, MXAA52, MXAA54 For some vehicles produced in autumn'19 MIL turns ON at low mileage. DTCs are stored in the ECU: P013616 A/F (O2) Sensor B1S2 Circuit Current (Voltage) Below Threshold; P042000 Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold B1. This phenomenon caused by sensor element failure due to excessive thermal stress during supplier process. T-SB-0079-20 r1 14.08.2020 Outer Rear View Mirror Image Vibration While Driving 2019-2021 RAV4, RAV4 HV Vehicles may exhibit a vibration/shaking of the image shown in the outer rear-view mirror(s) while driving. Mirror vibration can be observed at highway speeds of approximately 50 – 70 mph on typical concrete/asphalt road surfaces. Prescription: remove mirror, replace mirror mounting studs, install new exterior door reinforcement bracket, apply panel bonding adhesive, and reinstall mirror (04000-0310R, 04000-0320R extension kit) T-TT-0582-19 19.08.2020 Squeak/groan noise from steering intermediate shaft area 2019-2020 RAV/RAV4 HV Customer states that there is a squeak or groan noise from the steering column area when turning the steering wheel. Do not apply any lubricant or water to intermediate shaft or seal. This could damage the seal or lead to a repeat repair. Isolate noise using stethoscope and replace affected components. BO-00440T-TME 17.09.2020 Deck board broken and deck side trim deformed by loading in luggage area RAV4 Warranty replacement of the side panel in case of its deformation with the modified one (more rigid). T-SB-0109-20 29.10.2020 Vehicle Refueling Performance 2019-2021 RAV4 HV Vehicles may experience one or both of the following conditions: the fuel gauge displays less than full when the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off; the total amount of fuel dispensed while refueling is less than expected when the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Distance to empty displayed may be less than expected. Prescription: fuel sender gauge assy replacement (83320-0R050, 83320-42100 : 04000-16142), possible fuel tank repair with kit (77001-0R100, 77001-42320: 04000-15142) T-TT-0630-20 27.10.2020 MIL on P0AA649 / P1C8049 - Corrosion on MGR Cable 2019-2020 RAV4 HV Vehicles may experience DTC P0AA649 / P1C8049 (HV Battery Voltage System Isolation Internal Electronic Failure / HV Battery Voltage System Isolation (Rear Motor Area) Internal Electronic Failure). Vehicles exhibiting this condition have been experiencing a short in MGR connector due to corrosion. G-00496T-TME 09.12.2020 Vehicle refuelling performance - fuel gauge does not show full RAV4 - AXAH54 Vehicles may experience one or both of the following conditions: the fuel gauge displays less than full when the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off; the total amount of fuel dispensed while refueling is less than expected when the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Distance to empty displayed may be less than expected. Prescription: fuel sender gauge assy replacement (83320-0R050, 83320-42100 : 04000-16142), possible fuel tank repair with kit (77001-0R100, 77001-42320: 04000-15142) T-TT-0623-20 22.01.2021 Front Brake Squeal Noise 2019-2020 RAV4 / RAV4 HV Vehicles may exhibit a front brake squeal/squeak noise when braking at low speeds. T-SB-0005-21 27.01.2021 Inoperative Steering Wheel Controls After the IG OFF for 2 Minutes 2021 RAV4 Prime T-SB-0007-21 03.02.2021 Hybrid Warning Message DTC P1CCC96 - Poor Ground Connection DC/DC Converter 2021 RAV4 Prime Vehicles may exhibit a MIL ON condition with DTC P1CCC96 (DC/DC Converter Enable Component Internal Failure). This condition may occur from a plating issue with the DC/DC mounting bolts that cause high resistance. Prescription: replace ground bolts T-TT-0616-20 22.03.2021 Steering Recalibration After Abnormal Steering Sensation or Battery Disconnect 2019-2021 RAV4 and RAV4 HV Customers may experience an abnormal steering sensation (pulling, drifting), which may be more pronounced after a cold soak. Every time the vehicle’s battery is disconnected or discharged, the Steering Angle Neutral Point Memorization and the Steering Sensor Zero Point Calibration must be performed. T-SB-0021-21 r1 13.04.2021 DTC P1CE931 - No Signal From the Charging Fan 2021 RAV4 Prime Vehicles may store DTC P1CE931 (Charger Cooler Fan Revolution Sensor No Signal), also a longer charging period or reduced charging efficiency. The charger assembly plug-in logic has been modified to reduce the possibility of these conditions. Prescription: reprogram charger assy plug-in T-TT-0653-21 26.05.2021 DTC P1AC000 - Uneven Voltage 2020-2021 RAV4 HV, Sienna HV DTC P1AC000 in very low mileage vehicles (500 miles). Status: under investigation. T-TT-0652-21 28.05.2021 Abnormal Noise from Differential and Miss Match of Connect/Disconnect Timing 2019 RAV4 DTV AWD vehicles: customers may experience an abnormal noise from rear differential after driving the vehicle for 15-20 minutes or more. BE-00571T-TME 21.06.2021 Poor FR seat heater performance of leather seats with 3-level seat heater RAV4 - AXAH52, AXAH54, AXAL52, AXAL54, MXAA52, MXAA54 This phenomenon is not quality problem, it is caused by specific system logic of heater control. For improve the above phenomenon, reprogram the A/C ECU to the new available calibration ID T-SB-0078-21 02.09.2021 Parking Brake Warning Light On With DTC C059746 2020-2021 RAV4 Vehicles may exhibit a Parking Brake Malfunction warning message with DTC C059746 (Brake System Control Module A Calibration / Parameter Memory Failure). Prescription: reprogram skid control computer T-TT-0672-21 29.10.2021 Oil Pan #2 Leaks 2021-2022 RAV4 HV, TMMK A25A-FKS/FXS Engines may exhibit an oil leak from the oil pan #2. Status: under investigation. TSB CP-00665T-TME 08.12.2021 Actuator - Fix for "EPB system malfunction. Visit dealer" with DTC C059746 (sometimes C14FE14) RAV4 Prescription: brake actuator calibration update # 10.12.2021 RAV4/Wildlander Recall campaign for chinese domestic market cars: corrosion of the EGR valve (supposedly caused by high chlorine content in the fuel), which can lead to its sticking and engine unstable operation, thereby affecting road safety. Prescription: replacement of the EGR valve with a modified one (a composite valve body instead of an all-aluminum). T-SB-0104-21 17.12.2021 MIL ON with Low Oil Pressure DTCs P05202A and/or P052477 and Milky/Discolored Engine Oil in Freezing 2021-2022 RAV4 Prime, Sienna HV, Venza HV Problem: engine oil emulsion (milky/discolored), 'Oil Pressure Low' message and DTCs P05202A and P052477 may appear. Cause: during short trips at freezing temperatures, abundant condensation of moisture from blow-by gases occurs, which under such conditions is not removed naturally. Prescription: ensure the emulsion did not appear as a result of coolant leak; check for DTC during warming-up to 50°C; replacement of engine oil and filter; remove all traces of emulsion residue. TSB CP-00636T-TME 27.12.2021 GF2A Transfer: 4WD warning light on (DTC C13F700) RAV4 Message '4WD system malfunction' with DTC C13F700. Production change (disconnection timing logic, improved assembly process, specific spring for internal position-sensor section) implemented after 16.08.2021. Prescription - (1) transfer replacement (36100-42170,36100-42171,36100-42172 ⇒ 36100-42190), (2) 4WD control unit reprogramming. EG-00691T-TME 02.02.2022 White smoke, Lack of power and/or engine hesitation (sometimes with DTC P319000, P04019C) due to internal damages in the EGR system (Oxidation caused by Chlorine contamination) RAV4 - AXAA52, AXAA54, AXAH52, AXAH54, AXAL52, AXAL54, MXAA52, MXAA54 ; Due to the destruction of the EGR cooler heat exchanger, coolant ingress the EGR channels and then into the cylinders. At the same time, abundant deposits (in the form of powder or crystals) form in the gas channels, often the EGR valve sticks. External symptoms - white smoke from the exhaust pipe, engine hesitation and power loss, the appearance of DTC codes (P319000, P04019C etc.), antifreeze level drops and engine overheat is possible.

Summary

Since the moment of the presentation, it was clear that the new RAV4 turned out to be at least interesting and judging by the press almost the best popular crossover... Partly this turned out to be fair, partly - illusions dispelled over time. There are few fundamental cons: subjectively - unsuccessful organization of the driver's workspace, objectively - inadequate noisy engines, problematic 4WD in top versions, cut out safety systems on local models.

In our rankings, RAV4 has made significant progress, but still not a revolution - there are more interesting models in this price category in terms of driver comfort; there are models with a higher level of 'quality feel'; there are models for which the concept of 'driving pleasure' applies...

However, RAV4 in any case will live long in the top of the local sales of mid-size crossovers. Someone ironically says "millions of lemmings can't be wrong" - but it is rather an echo of resentment - in itself a design for most is adequate, and what about the cost... Beati possidentes.

We continue to observe!



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