2019 Toyota RAV4 - Compact Crossover King?

Toyota's RAV4 hasn't been known for off-road prowess or handling ability for a while, but they are changing that for 2019 with an all-new model that is promising more of everything. More refinement, better handling, improved off-road ability, more features and better fuel economy. Is that enough to make the best selling compact CUV in America the best selling vehicle in America? We'll find out.
Follow AoA on Facebook: theautobuyersguide/
The Best Cars, Trucks & SUVs: • The A List - The Best ...
Want a free AoA sticker? Send a self-addressed stamped envelope (no stamp, no sticker) to:
DykLaine, LLC
Alex On Autos
PO Box 573
Redwood Estates, CA 95044
Follow these related channels!
The Mountain Garden: goo.gl/icFWcd
Mountain Winos: goo.gl/vor9kH

[@BL0HARD]

This guy doesn’t waste people’s time with bullshit just hammers out information. Good job.

[@karans9228]

Finally. No terrible music, no crappy slideshow and a proper comparison. Great balance of quantitative and qualitative information. Keep it up.

[@chrgav1286]

There were 6 vids on 2019 Rav4 but i picked Alex Auto because he does it right!!

[@jessemunoz2642]

Thats so funny cuz when i clicked my subscriptions there was 6 in a row of the same video. And i had to pick Alex on Autos first.

[@LacoteCohen]

Same here 😂

[@tonyvargas368]

Ditto. No one else does such a thorough, unbiased review like Alex.

[@Alumnikiid]

🤣Same here...Detailed and his Comparisons are excellent

[@mikemorales1725]

yeah, cause others just worry about 0 to 60 times and how cute the key fob is.

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

This will be the best selling SUV for years.

[@disco.lemonade]

yes, especially to rent a cars fleets. no fleet sales, no party

[@normt5463]

@@disco.lemonade The RAV4 is a reantal special!

[@bextar6365]

Sales will/should fall with the new styling and ugly short wheel well cladding...

[@joelg9700]

Just bought one last week and it’s sweet

[@jtomtl]

I saw so many RAV 4 on the road, I LIVE IN Canada

[@Tom-dz6yo]

In case you are in the market for a lightly used 19 Rav4 as I was, just wanted to share my buying experience. I was mostly sold on 19 RAV4 on paper. Great reliable 2.5l four cylinder w decent gas mileage. Good looks. No problematic cvt for a transmission, just a reliable standard mechanical transmission and no problem turbo involved. And I liked the new styling much better than the old. Then I test drove an xle and a limited. The test drive was horrible because of all the road noise at highway speeds. Not only did I have a problem with it but so did my wife. What we have to compare to is our 2017 Sorento sxl. It in comparatively very quiet in the cabin traveling on same stretch of hwy as our test drives. So we moved away from the Rav4. We ended up buying a 19 CX-5 grand touring which was very quiet on the highway, has similar mechanical reliability, plus gave us way more features than equivalent priced Rav4- android auto, leather, auto high beams, leds all way around, 19" wheels, and it drives great.

[@dennisscipio]

The new RAV4 looks a lot more rugged i like it.

[@Omfcody1]

The more any vehicle looks like a 4RUNNER, the more I like it.

[@mr.g.9685]

Yet another flawless review! I can always count on the most comprehensive, unbiased, reviews on youtube when it comes to Alex 👍

[@Jaymac720]

I wouldn’t be surprised if the hybrid outsells the gas. It’s only $1,800 more than the gas FWD and it gets insanely good fuel economy while being faster. I drive a lot in the city and gas is decently expensive so I’d make it back pretty soon

[@NoOne-xy6iz]

Good thing they didn't go nuts on the grill size on the new RAV4.

[@CNHabs]

No One haha I was afraid of that too.

[@winomaster]

I kinda prefer the variation they use on the Adventure model.

[@josepholague925]

You should see the 2020 edition 😆

[@robertn3009]

@@josepholague925that variation is only for the TRD and Adventure models. The rest of them will still use the regular grille.

[@whoknows8678]

@@josepholague925 Just bought a 2020. Love it!

[@PresidentMcAwesomesauce]

Half a dozen reviews on the same rig...Click on AoA first and never disappointing. Great review sir.

[@jeps5553]

The best initial review! Thank you for this!

[@ayushanand2901]

I love Alex on Autos... No random shit, just plain excellent car reviews!! 😀😀 Waiting desparately for your 2019 Santa Fe (formerly santfe sport) review!

[@mattmc8391]

Ayush A. Just thinking the same

[@winomaster]

Honda with their CR-V had this segment owned for years after taking it away from Ford's Escape. Honda tried a leap forward to keep the segment by coming out with a turbo. I don't know of any car makers who have not had reliability issues moving to turbos. You could see Honda's troubles as forced by the competitive pressure from Toyota. Toyota owns the segment now and will be tough to dislodge. In six years, the next RAV-4 may be all electric.

[@SarahEA1]

And I just bought myself the 2019 Rav4 AWD in the Blue Flame, I absolutely love it!

[@alliejr]

Alex, excellent job (as always), especially showing the differences between lower and upper trim interior details. No other reviewers devote the time and energy to these details, nor are they nearly as knowledgeable about the details of drivetrain and even the GoogleToyota issues. Many thumbs up.

[@jordancatcher6663]

The Color looks great.

[@verbnoun1531]

21:28 Alex.exe has stopped working

[@omegabeta3305]

hahaha one of the rare times

[@tommypan5281]

haha it is funny right

[@AbhiKohli]

Hahahahahahahaha awesome.

[@snazari1994]

Hahah s o funny

[@troylancaster3598]

After shopping for new cars for my wife and me for the last couple months, I have to Say Alex does the most thorough reviews I have found with the least amount of his opinion.

[@rightlanehog3151]

TL, Alex is the most comprehensive, rational and diplomatic reviewer on KZbin and definitely the best place to start your research. Cross referencing his reviews with Consumer Reports ratings is a sound basis for any buying decision. Now it is up to you to navigate the purchasing process at you local dealership. Good luck.

[@balalalala13]

Thanks Alex. This is a terrific review. I'm so glad I found you.

[@jerrymcquire4595]

Wow...I had no interest in anything Toyota but once this vid got started I had to see it through. Extremely thorough on everything I’d be interested in before buying a vehicle without all the normal sales fluff bull***t most reviews have. Very well done!

[@cornelbacauanu1544]

So far, the best presentation of new Toyota Rav 4 2019

[@D26982]

An absolutely fantastic and thorough/informative review !

[@SNESmapper]

Another incredibly solid product from Toyota, I think the rugged look really makes this the best looking in the segment. With all the engine issues the Honda CRV has been having Toyota was basically handed the win.

[@q-bert6454]

SNESmapper . Honda’s engines are made in Taiwan....nuff said

[@kevintran3612]

What's wrong with the CRV??

[@q-bert6454]

Kevin Tran The CRV was getting fuel mixed in with the oil while driving. Design flaw

[@siddiqze]

Turbo engine is causing issues and the worst part is that honda is not bringing a real fix.

[@rkgsd]

@@q-bert6454 it's an engineering problem from the homeland (JAPAN), not where the engine is made.

[@MsCaterific]

I will always pick Alex first for car reviews. I'm so excited that the RAV4 hybrid is now automatic.

[@vermilliontoaster3063]

This is my first video and I deeply appreciated it! Even size references!!!

[@rncondie]

Alex, you are the best on KZbin. It is worth mentioning the acceleration 0-60 mph in 8.0 second is at sea level. I live in Utah at 4,450 ft above sea level and I would estimate the same test will add about 2/10ths to your time.

[@salihalexanderesq.2243]

No, it'll add about 1.5 seconds.

[@RainnMakerr]

Great review Alex. Exactly what buyers are looking for.

[@nowellingram3855]

Thanks Alex! I have been waiting for the 2019 Rav 4 to come out. As usual A great Review.. I look forward to your review on the Hybrid version.

[@ckbumu]

Thank you for the review. It seems like other reviewers complain about engine noise level as well. I saw in your video that there is no sound deadening under the hood. Hopefully, the level is not terrible.

[@TuMuchTa1ent1]

Very detailed love the on screen prices helps a lot

[@travelinben1966]

I agree,the 3.5 v6 would be great in the Rav like it once was.I definitely do not want a turbo going into it.Excellent review,thank you!👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@mikemorales1725]

That modular platform Toyota developed has been one of the smartest things they've ever done.

[@bruin4937]

Excellent review, Alex. Thank you so much.

[@rubensandnes2858]

Just ordered one! Nice to see this review :) .

[@gallagher911]

Just bought a 2019 Limited. Love it!

[@Dfgzx12xyw]

Never thought I would consider buying RAV4.

[@iainmiddleton4175]

Alex, you are really good at this!

[@IamGroot786]

I gotta admit that I completely under estimated how capable Acura's torque vectoring system is. It's amazing how it helps my 2017 Ridgeline right through fast turns!

[@10tenman10]

I like the looks of the new RAV4. The previous generation looked very dated (even 5 years ago!)

[@werbrown]

Excellent review Alex, I certainly will be giving the RAV a test drive. Especially the hybrid.

[@RicardoATBarbosa]

Alex, you have the gift to make awesome reviews! When would you be doing the child seat review with this new version? Thumbs up!

[@jul5385]

Great explanation on the new AWD system. Very informative.

[@frvnkie_fjg]

Just ordered my 2019 rav4 adventure 🤪 comes first week of March

[@kylablattberg8017]

How are you liking it?

[@wind7sailor]

I'm interested since it sits up a little higher. How are you enjoying the adventure trim?

[@mchevownr]

Love your reviews, Alex!! Keep up the great work.

[@gumerdominguez4091]

Alex as. Always good job 👍 you are the best

[@1717jbs]

Great review! Thanks Alex.

[@matthewlockhart3226]

Great video as always! But I was hoping for a little more info on the Adventure trim. From what I understand the Adventure has an available tow package and some other things. It would have be useful for me to hear more about some of those items. Thanks, Alex!

[@ambastha09]

Thank you for this informative review

[@dsteffler54]

Nicely done review.

[@brucekendall52]

Nicely presented,thks.

[@brianwinkler8183]

How nice this is right down the road from you. The interior and exterior are much improved, and while the powertrains are improved, each has some compromises. Noise and a decent 8 speed, or drone from the CVT but better performance.

[@omegabeta3305]

When competition went crazy with their CVT's, direct injections, and turbocharging, Toyota was "hmmm, let's add the prius technology and what we've learned with Tesla to our vehicles".

[@cgrscott]

Very smart looking body lines.

[@karmastarr4193]

Thanks for your great Review on Toyota Rav 4 2019 🌞👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 I already have Toyota Rav 4 2014 and l plan to buy luxe’s but now after your review I change my mind

[@ttampi]

Alex, when will you update this video with all the numbers? That's what make your review unique to others. Cheers. :).

[@CeitDeVitto]

I just purchased the XLE very happy with my choice. I do wish it had a tad bit more power but I'll get over it quickly because it does handle very well. The Cabin Noise take a little bit to get use to as well. I am really enjoying it so far.

[@jaychon8418]

good cursory review. on my short list for the future

[@wes786]

I traded my 2018 Rav4 Hybrid with the new 2019 Hybrid. Can't wait for it arrive.

[@samlane703]

Alex, really enjoy your videos. I believe some of the very best on KZbin. Believe Toyota missed an important opportunity by not offering a turbo version for those who desire more sport.

[@stevearita3267]

As always, another great review! Thank you for all your work on this review, you definitely are one of the few reviewers who really know your stuff! I would really be interested to get your initial gut reaction as to whether the RAV4 Adventure beats the new Forester Sport, I really like the fact the RAV4 stuck with a traditional transmission, as opposed to a CVT. Your initial thoughts would be really appreciated!

[@WhittyPics]

Awesome review. Your reviews are always informative. I have a 2009 CRV that I may be replacing in a couple of years. It has been a good car but I have been hearing about some issues in the newer CRVs. I haven't been totally happy with the ride quality or the gas mileage of my CRV. Sounds like this RAV 4 may be a little better. I am glad you showed the spare tire. I feared it wouldn't come with one.

[@f42un84u]

Dennis W A problem with all late models Toyotas is elimination of transmission fluid dipstick and need to have a lift i.e. repair shop to change fluid. Do not care what Toyota says trans fluid must be changed periodically. Waiting to 100k a mistake. Ex. After towing season or off roading or after heavy loads. My CRV is easiest vehicle to maintain with near 200k and only routine maintenance. 2nd gen CRV hard to surpass. 32mpg hwy. Honda 2018 designs horrible. Turbos out. This 2019 RAV4 hybrid design finally may do it, but will wait until 2020.

[@KandKo]

What issues are you referring to with the new CRV's? I'm going to be getting either one of those or one of these Toyotas next year.

[@yandc1980]

@@KandKo Honda is fixing their 1.5 Turbo injection problems where Gas and oil will mix in the engine. Honda is aware of the problem since 2017 Models but will only be fixed in the 2019 Models.

[@PresidentMcAwesomesauce]

@@KandKo I have heard of the 1.5T in the CRV having heat issues in northern areas during winter also.

[@alexzman85]

Dennis W I bet you this first yr model will have problems.

[@tumee1661]

Happy new year Alex! Would it be possible for you to make a deducated review on Rav4 Adventure, please? Thank you

[@kenhoward3512]

'Glad I checked here. The first '19 RAV4 review I read elsewhere (not a video) described acceleration simply as "slow," rear seat room as "cramped," and quality of interior materials as "cheap." It makes me wonder how many people will be swayed by their apparent negative bias. Thanks, Alex, for your even-handed, methodical, and extremely-thorough reviews.

[@richardsroczynski7516]

Ken Howard 1

[@litoandjosievalencia1697]

Ken Howard s

[@nimab8935]

Looks great! Especially Adventure. One of the best designs

[@mdsims2107]

As always Alex, great "first drive" of the new RAV4, and as for the question of a sport trim for the RAV4, I know I would love to have a turbocharged 2 liter 4 cylinder under the hood! I think it would inject more personality and REAL adventure into the RAV and add to the new "mantra" of Toyota.

[@Gforce000]

Agree with Alex. If this one had v6 or turbo 2.0 this would be my next vehicle

[@jowowetan]

With CR-V oil dilution problem, RAV4 is definitely much better choice in this class.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Honda must be crying themselves to sleep every night thinking about Toyota's recent upgrades.

[@afcgeo882]

Looks like they decided to cut the approach angles on the standard model compared to the last generation. That was the one thing the Rav4 had going for it. The front end cladding was sloped in a way which would allow you to clear and climb large mounds of snow. This generation's bottom skirts would just break in the snow/ice. That said, the overall clearance is 2" higher, so that's a very good development.

[@louisstennes4542]

Take a ruler and look at 2 inches. It is abut the length of my thumb. What difference does that make. NONE!

[@sachinsathe5688]

Alex - I love to watch your videos , always very detailed. Front looks like 4runner for sure (baby 4 runner) + rear quarter Volvo XC40... Hybrid RAV4 is way to go... I own 2018 RAV4 and it gives me excellent gas millage (~ 5.5 L/100km in summer and ~ 6.5L/100km in hard core Canadian winter). I think 2019 RAV4 hybrid will give even better than this.

[@rightlanehog3151]

You made the right decision in 2018. Hybrid was absolutely the best choice in 2018 and it will remain the best choice in 2019.

[@WilliamRockseo]

Great Review, Thx

[@Deez_Nutts974]

Great Review 👍

[@MIAthe305]

If it came with a V6 I’d be instantly sold

[@rightlanehog3151]

Let Toyota know how you feel about a V6 option. Alex is not the only reviewer who noted this new chassis could easily handle a lot more power. Everyone I know with the 3rd generation V6 is very happy that they purchased the more powerful version.

[@noelsilva5381]

I like the new look

[@stephanematis]

The 4Runner certainly gave some of it's good DNA.

[@go8663]

Thanks

[@kylablattberg8017]

He is simply great!

[@justinfontaine5539]

Great review and explanation of the different AWD systems. I'm curious as to why they did the torque vectoring rear axle. More for off road ability or for hammering through mountain roads? I'd have to think its the first scenario. Not many people who buy these are going to be ripping through canyons regularly. Its a Toyota and that counts for a lot but I still think a new CX-5 Turbo AWD for the same money is just more car. Too bad the space in that car is so small. They blew it there but are still selling pretty well now after all the great reviews. That car is now pretty quick with that turbo. Under 6 seconds 0-60. Mazda people asked for a turbo in that car and they got it.

[@shamschandani4380]

I had a brief test drive and found engine noisy. I am waiting for a full review by Alex to get the score on cabin noise and also other factors.

[@xanth987]

I originally wanted an Awd gas engine in red but now that I think of it, I want it in voodoo blue like the new 4runner trd pro

[@tlicious121]

Very comprehensive review!! Which model is being driven on the off-road course (~23:37)? Is that the Adventure? Adventure Hybrid? or something else? TIA.

[@demoncleaner80]

Haha, you missed a cut on the Cabin Noise section. That being said you have the best car reviews on KZbin. Keep it up. I'm very interested in seeing the Adventure trim and hope you can get your hands on one for a full review!

[@soulheal6303]

Yes he did, but that showed how much effort he had to put in editing and selecting pieces of info. to make sure that his reviews are first class always.

[@mrbob9556]

@@soulheal6303 That was probably Toyota trying to make sure no body talked too much about interior noise. we can clearly see the bare bone metal under the hood. No excuse to do that when most of the engine noise can be eliminated with a peace of dampening material. Good job Alex!

[@soulheal6303]

@@mrbob9556 I really don't understand Toyota, how to give a car to being reviewed and at the same time being so reticent to reveal the main car characteristics expected from ant review!

[@gm2256]

I really like the blue color that Toyota has been doing on their new vehicles.

[@Gary65437]

Nice review Alex. Is the ride height less in the FWD vs AWD? I live in Houston where the roads flood every yr so ride height is good to have. Also I wonder if I get the Hybrid, what water level would ruin the elect drive system? 6in, 8 or a foot of water? I cringe at the thought of driving it in deep water..lol

[@willieboon6150]

This car from Toyota will sell like hot cake. No doubt.!!!!!

[@thedeadzonemaniac5]

What year would you recommend for a used model?? Thanks for your detailed video!

[@davidblack5654]

I like the new design. This in hybrid is on my list.

[@buddyebs1962]

Alex, always enjoy your reviews. But you missed an important element in this one. You should have folded down the rear seats so we could see if it is flush with rear cargo area. Also, instead of just giving cargo area sq footage, it would be helpful to give actual measurements, depth x width, both with rear seats up and down. People like to camp with these and like to know if they can sleep in back with seats folded down.

[@grasshopper33xx]

Would love to hear your thoughts on the differences between this and the 2019 Subaru Forrester

[@silentrefusal9911]

Wait what!? This vehicle actually has a 2 cubic feet bigger trunk than half a segment above vehicle, the new Santa Fe?? That's really impressive man

[@omelborpon3159]

To the right of the setup screen at 12:20 is a blank spot. Dare I hope that this spot is being reserved for the Android Auto icon?

[@BringOnTheCold]

The new Rav4 looks much better. More appealing to men. The previous version just looked off to me, almost like the embodiment of compromise. This looks great! I almost want to wait to see if they update the 4 runner..

[@ff11dream]

TY

[@johncarr123]

Your review wins!

[@ExpeditionaryRanger]

Hi Alex. So unlike the last generation, you can no longer lock the center differential up to 40 km/h? And, the transmission is no longer built by Toyota? Does that also apply to the new 8 speeds in the Sienna and Highlander?

[@roadwarrior280]

Good review.Is it quieter than the 2018 model?2018 was not terrible on hard acceleration.Any improvement though would be welcomed

[@Ben-bs4od]

Great review? Is the torque vectoring worth the complexity of all the technology having reliability issues? It's amazing these cars work with the complexity of the technology of all wheel drive, and now braking around corners. It all sounds almost too complicated and not worth it.

[@BuddyPickleball]

Alex, which one would you buy, Rav4 or Forester?

[@xiaodongshi27]

Just wondering how useful is the eAWD system in inclement weather conditions?

[@earlpainter2143]

Better lookin than previous version.