I Bought the Most Basic 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD - Review, Road Trip and MPG

Bought the brand new 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD, paid just hair over $30K for it.
Here's my initial impression of it and some road trip driving feedbacks.

[@robertgregory415]

You’re a smart man. You purchased what you needed, not what you wanted. That’s why you will be in a sound financial position when you retire. Although a base RAV4 , you purchased a very reliable vehicle.

[@bbman10pwns]

the MSRP of the XLE is only like $2k-$3k more lol I used to be the same way, but creature comforts are well worth the money sometimes.

[@rylans.5365]

⁠@@bbman10pwnsI totally agree. It’s a good mindset and decision in hindsight to only get what you need (the base model). However, when the price differential is that little, it makes more sense to go with the higher trim. I understand that the base model is more than sufficient for many people, but this RAV4 LE is really really bare bones basic. Even the lack of a smart key and push to start surprised me.

[@4397evan]

You think a push button start is worth 3 thousand dollars? That's 3 times what a new iPhone costs for a single button!@@rylans.5365

[@josiahademiluyi4677]

Why

[@cheryllawrence2652]

We just bought the 2024 RAV4 LE and I Love It!!! Same color similar fixtures. The only upgrade we’re getting later are the alloy wheels! 🤗🥰 This is our retirement vehicle although that’s not for about 4 years for me!

[@ecyfoto]

Holy cow! A real life auto review of a basic trim level. Great job!

[@repairman99]

Buying the higher trims for 2k to 3k price difference is a lot of money. Some people buy the extra add-ons they seldom or never use. I never bought a base model for the three cars I owned. Thirty two years and three cars. The last one I bought in 2012 is still going with 131k miles. Wise man to review a base model. Thank you.

[@KT_One]

I have a $70k sedan and a $13k hatchback sharing spots in the same garage. Guess which one I like more and will keep forever?

[@wibbles9712]

I genuinely love your appreciation for your new vehicle brother ! Aswell as seeing your happy family, I wish you longevity and health .

[@bebe0928]

Thank you 🙏

[@billybobbob3003]

@@bebe0928 base models 4 lyfe! lol 2014 honda crv lx/base model here i didnt want leather seats or sunroof

[@samkitty5894]

I am old school. I don't care for any of the bells and whistles higher end models come with. Just more things to confuse me, or to break. The more basic, the better. Also, used cars are so expensive today and with them you have no idea about the history, or the maintenance. No one ever gets rid of reliable, dependable, fun to drive car. All used cars have dirty secrets. For only few thousands more, one can get a new car, piece of mind, and a warranty...and be care free for years and years. Well done sir!

[@tonymarinelli7304]

Me too!!!

[@mospalacios]

its so refreshing to see reviews of base model cars. its the best representation of a company's intention with the car. thanks and look forward to your videos!

[@maxineperkinswordsmith]

I just bought a 2024 today. This is the most informative video ever! Thank you so much!

[@kypatriot7037]

Thank you so much for the pleasant and thorough review. I had purchased a Rav4 just like yours this week and I am liking a lot so far!

[@nunyabeeswax3936]

WOW. Had not even considered a Rav 4 but your presentation has me desiring one! Thank you!

[@helloimjeffjones]

I usually don't comment on videos like this but, excellent review. You were straight forward and went over everything that I wanted to know. Great job!!!

[@Mousirelen]

I had to subscribe, I just love how many times you shared it is basic and especially when your face light up, alerting us that you will update your viewers when you get your new alloys. Your a champ.

[@craftinite3528]

i appreciate this review, base model reviews are damn hard to find, thank you!

[@DanAllen1]

I really appreciate this review. I've been all over the place on the RAV and trim level. This helps a lot.

[@Grizzzly.]

loved the review bro / super down to earth / loved the RPM check at highway speeds / and smart purchase / bought everthing u needed in a RAV4 and not all those accesories that the upper trims come with that just add on to ur loan amount through interest / also the reasoning on sticking to all gas AWD is a great note / this RAV4 will be seen for years to come in ur family, solid purchase .

[@coastalbeer]

This is what my son bought. His first new car. We looked at everything else and determined this was the best buy. I may buy one too! I think the Rav4 has evolved with reliability and intelligent design in mind. The price is right and I highly recommend this car to everyone.

[@kenty6973]

Thanks for the review. I bought the same basic LE model with no "push start", no "stop and go", no sun roof, no Hybrid, no alloy wheels. I love it. I like the steel wheels because they are much stronger than alloy wheels. The base LE will save me lots of headaches in the long run.

[@Satellitegirl41]

@Hereandthere139 more stuff = more stuff that can break. lol I agree. Although I really like heated seats...but most of the other extras I don't care about.

[@OnTheRocks71]

@@Satellitegirl41 I can live without heated seats if they're cloth, but a lot of manufacturers are using that fake leather even on low end trims.

[@notmebutyou8350]

​@@Satellitegirl41EXACTLY!! More stuff that can break. Plus, I like simplicity. 🙂

[@samkitty5894]

The ONLY thing I would miss would be alloy wheels. I think Toyota is the only car maker that still sells basic models with plain hubcapped wheels. Makes it look cheap...although the rest of the car is great.

[@daodejing81]

Very interesting video! In the next day or so, I will be collecting my LE Rav4 hybrid AWD. I am looking forward. Thanks for the lovely review!

[@Jean-lr4hv]

Glad to see such a detailed review of the base model, thanks!

[@lexithelexus7377]

I always prefer base model dont need or want 10 K in options

[@BarakTheWonderer]

Nice job. Thank you. Congratulations on your new vehicle and drive it in good health!

[@richLS3]

Awesome video! Congrats on the new rav4!!!! You’re a smart man with doing the break-in oil change and 5000miles (or 6 months!) oil changes.

[@TobiasPhotographs]

I don’t normally comment on videos, but this was great! Thorough, informative, and enjoyable! Thank you! Just bought my Rav4 LE AWD today! :D

[@JR-pr8jb]

This is great, exactly the information (and commentary) I needed. Thanks!

[@kyaw-soemoe1412]

Thanks for video. I'm driving 2012 RAV4 base model now and still running smooth.

[@notmebutyou8350]

WOW! That's great! I love those little Ravs, especially with the tire on the back. I think they're really cute!! My first car was a 2017 Toyota RAV4 LE. I loved my "RAVI." 🙂

[@RR-on1gj]

I appreciate the detailed review of your new car. Well done and with Toyota reliability you should be good to go for many years.

[@lakeeconcepcion4260]

congats bro on ur new car...dreaming to have one...simple yet it meets the living needs...wise choice brother!take care...

[@PiotrekPan]

Thank you, very good review. I have enjoyed watching. Just purchased 2024 RAV4 XLE, excited to try it tomorrow

[@bebe0928]

Wow, congratulations to your new Rav4

[@robertross1670]

Just picked up the exact model two days ago and we absolutely love it!

[@chaule7246]

I liked your review, yes, everything goes to simple always nice . Congratelation & enjoy a new RAV 4.

[@CC19524]

Very well spoken and thoughtful review. I always go for a base model - best value for the buck.

[@gregsantos9731]

Wow! Lucky you! That's one of my dream car, actually it's on the top of my list! Congrats!

[@thatgameingchanel]

Really enjoyed this video, please do more car reviews

[@izzydaman2231]

I got a 2021 Rav4 LE got it new I drive Lyft in Los Angeles CA and I already have 90K miles on it, zero issues I have just followed regular maintenence such great cars

[@jgwalton]

You are so right, very few basic reviews. Thank you.

[@BadgolferJimmyJam]

Great video. I wish there were more reviews of the basic models without all of the options, turbos and hybrid "upgrades." Thank you for this video.

[@paulm6481]

You are very smart on your oil change cycles. I had never heard of that oil type 0W16

[@jml9550]

Yep, 0-16w on my wife new Lexus Nx350h. Had the oil changed at 1k miles, then 5k miles or 6 months after that.

[@mikedelta658]

Your review made me to stay on my decision of buying Basic Rav4 2023. Thank you for the great review.

[@bennygagaoin]

me too

[@137997311ful]

I'm currently looking at pre-owned RAV4. They are at a dealership where I live. One has almost 4k miles on the odometer and another has 30k plus. Thanks for making this video. I'm not familiar with RAV4, but I'm hoping through videos like yours I will educate myself enough to feel comfortable purchasing a RAV4. Thanks!

[@TheGunterGlieben]

Awesome review my good man. I like the car, and your reasoning! Cheers.

[@derronburrell7421]

This man is so excited about his new car it makes me excited

[@alexeimiloslawsky2978]

Man. You made a smart move. This car will serve many years.

[@Justatypo]

Have had a 2024 XSE hybrid since November, went with what i wqnted and let me tell ya it satisfied my needs. Totally recommend a rav4 to anyone no matter what package.

[@sennis1361]

Great video and review of your LE AWD. very informative and detailed. Awesome purchase. And look forward to future updates. Note i have a 2010 RAV4 Limited With V6 unfortunately just FWD 166,000 miles and pampered.. Wish it would last forever. But know Ill depend on you in a year or so to help me make the best decision.

[@guitar_fed]

This is genuinely the best car review I've ever seen on KZbin, real to the bones!!! I am a very disappointed that Toyota don't sell this model in the UK, as this is what the true essence of a RAV4 should be: solid, functional and no frills. Also, entry model for the UK market is a hybrid 2WD version at (today's) retail price of £39,885 ($50,718) ... sheer madness! Special prompt for the engine, that's genuinely one of the best Toyota has ever made, again, very disappointed that in the UK we can only get the hybrid or, even worst, the plug-in hybrid that they seem to be pushing very strongly in dealerships right now, which is absolutely unnecessary and adds a bunch of stuff that will go wrong, at some point, and will cost a lot to repair.

[@theadvocate4698]

In canada the plug-in has a 2 years waiting list, it really takes 2 years to get one! Knew several people who bought it....

[@KCYO0311]

I’m about to buy a used 22’ and I’m so excited. I have an 18 ram 2500 that gets me about 12-14 mph when hauling a trailer and about 17 hwy with diesel. So I’m really excited to have a little daily driver so I can keep the truck at home.

[@lokerola]

Nice review. I did something similar in 2021. I bought a base WRX with a stick shift. No sunroof, no heated seats, etc. But it drives like a dream and I love the thing. I got it right before Covid prices blew up for right under $30K.

[@cormaro13]

Wow so u spent 30k for a base model wrx 😂 would’ve told u to ditch that and get a Mazda , you got screwed on features badly lol

[@bbo1779]

Great video! The front seats look wide and comfortable, which is a must for me.

[@grandmastert01]

Your car is exactly what I want. Thank you for this video. I just want a car that will last forever !!!

[@cristianmetz9470]

Love'd everything about this video and review. Well done sir, and god bless your family.

[@pollyholly198]

The difference between Hybrid and non-Hybrid that I get is more that 7 MPG (something like 3.5 KPL), and considering the yearly mileage and the gas price I save on that difference pays off for the price difference between a Hybrid and non-Hybrid in about 2.5 years. The real beauty of Hybrid, is driving in city and/or traffic.

[@Riley_1955]

Yeah non-hybrid vehicles get their best mileage at highway speeds and Hybrid vehicles get their best mileage in town ..... Love my 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid LE AWD.

[@thechihuahua4523]

Just enjoyed this video thanks for all the info !!!

[@billyrock8305]

Topgun supercool ride. #1 selling vehicle in America. Most reliable and highest quality. Best value for the money automobile you can buy today. 💯 You’ve made an ideal and wise configuration choice. You are a very smart man. Well done sir! 👍 🇨🇦

[@scottwerner5862]

I bought a new 2022 LE gas in 2022 and I’m very happy with it. I’m amazed with the gas mileage and how well it does in the snow. Just an overall practical vehicle.

[@rundix3351]

Great review, I think you made my mind up.

[@zeekus2222]

Looking at your choice and the information about break in oil change clearly shows you educated yourself well before buying this new car. Congradulations!!

[@steamloco1705]

Great review and very nice car , congrats , you're a man of focus and pay the fair price for a beautiful and ultra reliable car , most people fall victims of the stupid trends that make the cars last less and cost more , you have a great product that with the right care , will last forever , hope to enjoy it. BTW , the color is perfect.

[@michaelanthony1797]

I agree on oil changes you mentioned. I am considering 2024 XLE AWD

[@canalesivany]

I just got a 2023 le rav4 for my daughter she’s really happy have what she needs

[@rafaelbetancourt3551]

I agree with you on the oil change intervals. I have a 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander with 145k running strong since I follow the same oil maintenance schedule

[@jaimecuate763]

This was such a great video thank you!!!!

[@marcinsobczak2485]

two years ago i bought most basic tucson hev. front passenger seat only goes forth and back, no vanity mirror lights, have to turn the key to start it (yes, in hybrid) has analog gauges, normal bulbs for headlights and rear lights, no parking sensors just camera. and i still love it. cost 39000 euros

[@johnoberle9750]

A nice down to Earth review of a common persons car. Nice!

[@tomkato6400]

I rented a RAV4 like yours (LE AWD) several months ago and I was amazed by the fuel economy (averaged 32 MPG over 3 tanks) and how well it drove.

[@dwang552]

I bought the 2017 RAV4 LE, it can get 34 miles per gallon

[@lexithelexus7377]

you like it > would you buy used or new

[@johntalbert8227]

Thank you for the content. You made great choices.

[@chuckappel]

Refreshingly different review. Thank you very much.

[@carmenmarcinkiewicz7149]

Thank you so much for this review. I'm in need of a new car, and Toyota Rav 4 and Highlander are the two cars that are at the top of my list. I'm an older widow. I want to make sure to get a reliable car that I can drive across the country if I want. I'm going to need to buy used (I'm on a tight budget). I pray that I will get a car that will carry me through whatever I want to do!

[@Scott-pn3np]

Enjoy your RAV4! Just so you know, that green light being lit below the SOS button means that Toyota is collecting your location and other data. You can turn it off by pressing the SOS button when you get the car or by opting out of the master data collection agreement by calling Toyota.

[@ryanmanning5348]

Why do you care if they have your data?

[@falconclutch4051]

@@ryanmanning5348 why would you want any company to have your data?

[@marylinthicum678]

If it helps should your car get stolen then I am for it. At least they can track the location of your car.

[@CrazyGreek80]

Great review congratulations on your purchase!

[@gmill4977]

I did EXACTLY the same in august 28, 2020! I didn't want to pay more for the XLE AWD version. My review after almost 4 years of ownership. SIR, let me be clear to you. THIS IS THE BEST COMPACT SUV THAT YOU BOUGHT. Let me repeat it again. THIS IS THE BEST COMPACT SUV THAT YOU BOUGHT. 2 month before this I had bought a 2020 corolla se upgrade edition, since I live in Montreal in there's a lot of potholes and hard winter I had to change it for a more robust vehicle. The first 5 months, I missed terribly the corolla because it looks cools, had the sunroof, appealing to see, feels fun to drive until the winter arrives.... This is where I started to love the Rav4. She is stronger than her previous generation, first time driving it you will get the sensation of driving a strong mini truck of the 90´s, it took me 3 months to get used to the height position because she is higher on the ground than the corolla. Extra. I had mine on august 28, 2020. On the next day I started to make uber eats with her. "Danm man, you were crazy!! How old were you? How many problems you had so far? You probably fu*** the car!" Sir, I was turning the key almost 135 times per day for the 4 seasons for one year. Let me tell you something, I HAVE NEVER HAD A SINGLE ISSUES. Coming from a Jeep Compass which was my first car. I HAVE NEVER HAD A SINGLE ISSUES WITH THE RAV4!! I went trough a lot of huge potholes never had a flat so far, back up camera so clear and precise they call me Paul Walker, I never complain about gaz my tank is always full from the day I purchased it till know. I have always put the regular gaz. I changed my oil every 8 000 km instead of 16 000 km to make it perform better. I went to a lot of Places with it without any issues!! I do visit a lot of cottages per year and she is perfect for long roadtrip due to the large trunk size and the seats conforts. In September 2023 i had the funeral of one of my aunt in Staton island (New York) and it was my first long road trip. Guess what? I did Montreal to Staton Island wich was 7 hours and 50 minutes with less than ONE FULL TANK OF GAZ on cruise control!!! No, I don't have the hybrid version, mine it's the same as yours but in dark magnetic gray. I did everthing with it. Today you can tell by my words that I am a PROUD TOYOTA RAV4 OWNER! Oops I forgot, for almost 4 years Toyota dealership keep calling me to rebuy it from me. I won't!!!!! Don't worry🫱🏽‍🫲🏼🏆 You don't know what you bought Sir!! You clearly don't know what you bought yet. CONGRATULATIONS SIR 🎉

[@aznpersuazn]

Thank you sir, I am also in Washington, just moved here for work and the base model RAV4 is going to be my very first car. Hopefully I could get it under MSRP.

[@nurseratched5537]

I appreciate this video. I've been looking at these, but I wasn't sure id the difference.

[@geraldjohnson7937]

Cool video Yakfish!

[@shally89]

My friend is trying to talk me into getting the most basic Rav4. I think you might have convinced me. Thanks

[@hexhead5732]

Graduations on your new car good choice 👍

[@mateocafe45]

Congrats! It's nice! I just bought a 2023 Toyota Corolla LE AWD Hybrid. I Love anything Toyota or Lexus.

[@jml9550]

Same here. 3 Lexuses in my household. Sons’s 08 RX350 AWD, wife’s 24 NX350h and my 17 ES350.

[@dilemmadelima]

I love cloch seats, just doesn't get too hot or too cold. Good choice!

[@celinepark6855]

Thank you so much for this review. Not that many base trim review 😢

[@coston1986]

Just wanted to let you know that you can change your speedometer to digital if you would like to! I was impressed to learn that the LE trim allowed that. Great review!

[@sammyelliott5554]

I too, bought the basic LE 2019 RAV4. The only issue is not mechanical but with the interior cloth seats. They are light tan and water spots from rain stains the seats. Was cleaning them at least once a month. Had to buy some expensive seat covers made from faux leather to make them look nice.

[@cormaro13]

Oh the poor and not knowing about cars lol U do know they make ceramic coating for the interior right ? So it goes on cloth , carpet , leather or etc and it makes it hydrophobic, anti-static and much more

[@witchdoktor69]

We have a 2015 LE AWD with the black cladding. Love it. It doesn't get any stone chips or bug splatters

[@user-tk5jb8fn2p]

I'm not really interested in buying a Rav but this guy is very Informative. I really enjoyed watching the video. I hope Toyota can offer him a job being the spokesperson!

[@RollieFingers59]

65k on my 2021 AWD LE. Still running on original brakes. Only have done oil and filter changes and basic maintenance. Bullet proof.

[@robertjenkins84]

you are hilarious, i loved the review, thank you for all the info

[@lafettemorgan6676]

Bought one in October this thing run on zero gas!! Love it.I knew nothing about hybrid but told the man that it will start giving problems in a few he seemed to agree with me😅 So basic was it for me.

[@Dexterosa]

Koda loves the car, he wants to drive it :) Thank you for the information

[@MegaRetr]

Awesome video 😊 thanks a lot

[@HeadGasket7915]

Thank you for making this. Very insightful and well documented.

[@Xitecar]

You've earned a sub😊

[@searchersearcher8286]

Great review very informative

[@desabat]

Beautiful car hope you get it to 500k + miles. I have a Forester but would have been happy with the RAV4 as well

[@simons5193]

Excellent review.

[@CrispusAttucks2315]

I have the same car minus awd. I didn’t want a cvt or turbo nor the bells and whistles. It performs marvelously. Great gas mileage and does the job.

[@felix_five]

I have the same base model in Silver - hybrid awd. Love it

[@616civicmt8]

My girlfriend and I decided to trade our encore gx on a rav4. At the time our local dealer only had an LE hybrid so that’s what we got. We absolutely love it, comfortable and awesome mpg. Reliable as they come too.

[@lexithelexus7377]

good choice my man

[@omoyiwolaoluyemi9729]

Thanks for the review , you just made my decision easy for me as I get confused with all this different options. I like simple . Also Toyotas are known for engine oil leak. Little concern about that

[@Blackhawk556.]

My 2015 Camry has never had leak issues. 130k miles with no mechanical issues

[@champagnedw]

Nice review. Thank you!

[@JB-he1jt]

Beautiful Rav 4! I currently own 2 Camrys and a 4Runner. We are eventually going to sell one and get one of these down the road. I will not be buying brand new so will be looking to private sale pre-owned as Toyota quality never disappoints if you know what to look for.

[@btrswt35]

Really appreciate the low trim level review. And you were very thorough with all your information

[@Teejco_1228]

Congrats. We just purchased a base 2024 camry. It doesn’t even have the auto start stop which is a plus and it doesn’t have electronic parking brake either. I actually love how basic it is

[@aengmax]

I bought 2022 Silver Rav4 LE. i Didn't need all those extra stuff except for Heated mirror. Which the base model doesn't have. However i was able to install heated mirror after researching it.. I rather have a key to start vehicle than push button. So far i am very happy with the base model. I did install alot of the aftermarket stuff that is available.

[@earthling1984]

Great choice. I've been eyeing the 4runner and Rav4. I have a FJ Cruiser, which I plan to still keep many years (I've had it about 10 years so far, but only have 85k miles). I don't care for all the fancy electronics, self driving systems, and all that. I can drive myself thank you. And my phone does everything I need for navigation and entertainment. Basic is what I want in terms of extras. I just want a quality vehicle that will last and be reliable without a lot of 'bells and whistles'. Sadly, the more time that goes on, the less and less good options there are. I may just end up keeping my FJ another 20 years.

[@EcBuddy123]

I haven't read that screen name in years. But similar sentiments, have hady 08 4runner for about 7 years, but at 206kmiles. An 07 FJ I drive sits at 270k almost (parents 3rd vehicle I maintain and drive as needed)

[@georgewoodget271]

Keep the FJ I rarely hear someone mentioning that name