The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Just Tumbled Down to 7th Place
What is going on with Toyota’s most popular SUV? The 2022 Toyota RAV4 just took a tumble against rivals. Instead of being near the top, the Toyota RAV4 dropped to seventh place on the list of Best SUVs for 2022.
Is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 worth buying?
Yes, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is worth buying. It’s a reliable and affordable SUV that drivers love. However, critics may disagree. The Toyota RAV4 came in seventh place on the list of Best Compact SUVs for 2022 by U.S. News.
The rankings are:
- 2022 Hyundai Tucson
- 2021 Mazda CX-5
- 2022 Honda CR-V
- 2022 Kia Sportage
- 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
- 2022 Subaru Forester (Ties with the Ford Bronco Sport)
- 2022 Toyota RAV4
A few other options like the 2022 Nissan Rouge, 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, and the 2021 GMC Terrain ranked below the RAV4. So, it really landed in the middle of the pack, but why isn’t it a top option anymore?
U.S. News ranks vehicles based on credible reviews performed by professional critics. The editions analyze reviews from automotive sites, magazines, and newspapers to generate a score based on performance, interior quality, safety, reliability, and more.
Why did the RAV4 get a lower score?
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 has plenty of positive features to brag about, including a great fuel economy, plenty of standard features, and tons of cargo space. But these qualities aren’t enough to keep it ahead of rivals.
U.S.News shared that the Toyota RAV4 is comfortable, but it just isn’t as upscale or as fun to drive as other options. They also noted that the powertrain is loud and whiney. Plus, the touchscreen can be slow.
The 2022 Hyundai Tuscon came in first place, but it was fully redesigned for 2022, making it fresh in comparison. It has one negative feature listed, and it’s because the touch-sensitive buttons with the optional infotainment system can be distracting.
With the RAV4, you get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 9.4 seconds. This is slower than the class average.
The RAV4 provides a relatively smooth ride over bumps and features a quiet interior. However, the engine does sound coarse when you accelerate. Also, the seats lack padding for long drives, and the passenger seat could benefit from more adjustment controls.
Does the 2022 RAV4 have nice features?
The interior of the 2022 Toyota RAV4 has a simple, well-thought-out layout. Everything is easily within reach while providing ample driver and passenger space. It’s crafted with durable yet high-quality materials. You can access up to 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 69.8 cubic feet total.
A 7.0-inch touchscreen comes with the lower trims, and you can upgrade to the 8.0-inch unit. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. You can opt for a wireless phone charger, navigation, and a JBL premium audio system.
Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 has plenty to offer. It seems to be ranked lower than rivals because it’s a little slower than the competition with vague steering. Other SUVs are a bit more comfortable and include more value as well.
