Toyota makes the most popular small internal combustion engine SUV in the world. Its RAV4 small SUV is a staple in its segment for more reasons than one. Choosing the Toyota RAV4 over one of its rivals is an easy decision for thousands of drivers. Choosing a RAV4 trim can be a much more difficult decision. Which trims provide the most value for the money? Luckily for consumers, one of the best 2023 Toyota RAV4 trims costs under $35,000.

Every 2023 Toyota RAV4 configuration

There are plenty of RAV4 trims for consumers to choose from. Toyota has options for drivers that want a daily commuting vehicle, a well-equipped family SUV, and even an off-road SUV. There’s a RAV4 for nearly every type of driver, but which trim universally offers value for the average American?

The Toyota RAV4 LE FWD base model is an easy option to consider because of its affordability, but it isn’t the best trim for the money. If you really want a balance of affordability and capability, you might as well add all-wheel drive. Additionally, Toyota only has one engine option for non-hybrid RAV4 models, so the real differences between trims are the drivetrain, pricing, and standard features.

Toyota’s fully loaded 2023 RAV4 Limited has the best standard features, but most consumers aren’t willing to shell out over $37K on a RAV4. After all, a huge part of why the nameplate is so popular is its affordability. The sweet spot between the slightly barebones base model and the kitchen sink fully loaded model is the 2023 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium AWD.

Why the Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium AWD is the trim to get

Of all RAV4 configurations, the XLE Premium AWD is perhaps the most balanced between affordability and great standard features. Its value proposition is emphasized for drivers with long-term ownership in mind. The small SUV is capable of lasting for over 14 years of 200,000 miles. If you’re keeping an SUV for over a decade, you’ll likely want some fun tech and incredible creature comforts.

2023 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium AWD standard features

• Multi-Terrain Select dial with Mud and Sand, Rock and Dirt, Snow, and Normal drive modes
• Hill-start assist control
• Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
• Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
• Tire pressure monitor system
• SofTex-trimmed seats
• Leather-trimmed steering wheel
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

The RAV4 XLE Premium all-wheel drive has standard features that make the small SUV more capable, more comfortable, and more convenient to drive than other trims. It’s a steal at $34,075 for long-term ownership.

Why do people like the Toyota RAV4?

Drivers enjoy the RAV4 so much because it’s affordable and efficient. It makes a great small family SUV for the average driver. The RAV4 has plenty of competition, but no small internal combustion engine SUV has outsold it in recent years. Is the Toyota RAV4 the best small SUV of all time?