Some cars and SUVs just get it all right on the first try, like this compact option from Toyota. The 2018 Toyota RAV4 is one of the best used SUVs out there for a few reasons, like affordability, standard safety features, and a long history of reliability. Whether in search of a daily commuter, a vehicle for weekend adventures, or a family road trip companion, the 2018 RAV4’s well-rounded attributes and Toyota’s proven track record of quality and longevity make it a compelling option for those looking for a used SUV.

Why is the 2018 Toyota RAV4 a good used SUV?

Even though the 2018 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV, it has a lot of versatile space. In this segment, that is an integral part of the equation. Toyota made the RAV4 easy to load with a low cargo floor that is wide and flat. This makes it easy to totes things around town without having to fold the seats down. The 2018 RAV has 38.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. That increases to 73.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. The seats are 60/40 folding for added versatility.

Additionally, the Toyota RAV gets pretty good fuel economy as far as used cars go. When equipped with front-wheel drive, the RAV4 gets 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. With all-wheel drive, that falls to 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Toyota offers a RAV4 Hybrid that returns 34 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Good fuel economy is one of many reasons the RAV4 has been a best-selling SUV for so long.

The 2018 RAV4 price started at $24,660 for the base LE trim, while a fully loaded RAV4 Platinum started at $35,000. These days, the base LE is around $12,000, and the Platinum is upwards of $32,000. That’s a pretty big range for this used SUV, but it depends on the mileage to determine the price.

Is the 2018 Toyota RAV4 a safe, used SUV?

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 is a safe, used SUV to seek out, thanks to various standard safety features. These include forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Limited and Platinum trims come with blind-spot monitoring, a power liftgate, a 360-degree parking camera, and more.

Additionally, the IIHS made the 2018 RAV4 a Top Safety Pick winner when equipped with better headlights. These LED projector headlights came on the Platinum, Limited, Hybrid Limited, SE, and Hybrid SE trims. On straightaways and curves, the headlights provided good visibility.

The Halogen projector headlights on the XLE, Hybrid XLE, LE, Hybrid LE, and Adventure trims earned a lower score. These provided acceptable visibility, but the other trim levels are a safer option if you can find it. The higher trim levels offer the best safety and convenience features.

How reliable is a used Toyota RAV4?

As far as used cars and SUVs go, the Toyota RAV4 is among the most reliable vehicles on the road. Toyota SUVs tend to run for a long time as long as maintenance is performed at the correct intervals. Beyond that, J.D. Power gave the 2018 RAV4 a score of 88 out of 100 for quality and reliability, one of the highest for compact SUVs. When it comes to used cars, reliability is a significant factor to consider.

The 2018 Toyota RAV4’s reputation for reliability, fuel-efficient engine options, and modern safety features make it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. Even beyond the small SUV segment, the RAV4 has been a popular choice for many years. Its versatile nature combines practicality with family-friendly attributes that make it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable, all-around SUV.