Is the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Too Old to Keep Up?
Today we’re putting the Toyota RAV4 in the spotlight to take a closer look at it. We know that there are tons of great things to say about it. It’s capable, spacious, and reliable. But is the 2023 Toyota RAV4 old? Is its age starting to show?
Is the 2023 Toyota RAV4 outdated?
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 might be due for more updates than it recently acquired to stay current with the competition. Rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, and Kia Sportage just got fresh makeovers, more power, and advanced tech.
AutoBlog noted that the 2023 RAV4 is an elder in its class. It was radically redesigned back in 2019, but that doesn’t seem that long ago. It’s in the fourth year of its current generation, so a solid mid-cycle refresh should help it out.
For 2023, the RAV4 got an updated infotainment system with an available 10.5-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. These items should provide a more modern and premium feel.
The older 8.0-inch and 9.0-inch infotainment screens felt pretty dated in the 2022 model. They didn’t have the best graphics and looked fuzzy. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were preferred over the built-in system.
We also hope that the larger screen is connected to updated cameras. The older backup camera was small and difficult to see. The optional 360-degree camera is helpful with the 2022 model, but the surroundings are so tiny on the screen that you may need to squint.
Does the RAV4 have a dated interior?
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 has a simple yet elegant layout that’s not cluttered with tons of buttons. There’s plenty of access and space. However, the infotainment screen can seem a little hard to reach.
Also, rivals have higher-quality materials. The RAV4’s base model is plenty spartan with hard plastics. It could benefit from fresh textured trim pieces and more durable items. Accent stitching and ambient lightning could spice things up too.
The seats are spacious and well-padded, but the rear cushion is a bit flat. Also, the driver’s seat could use more adjustment controls to find the perfect driving position. The passenger seat doesn’t even have power-adjustment controls. It also only has faux leather upholstery.
Rivals offer more comfort and adjustment features. But on a positive note, the RAV4 offers heated and ventilated seats. The rubberized flooring and features are easy to clean as well.
Does the RAV4 need more power?
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 9.1 seconds, making it slower than rivals in its class. It’s a bit unrefined, loud, and clunky.
But it does get an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and up to 35 mpg on the highway. If only it had a little more power for a sportier acceleration. Also, it sounds a bit hoarse under hard accelerations.
Luckily the RAV4 Hybrid and Rpime are faster and sportier. But the RAV4 is starting to fall behind the pack regarding interior quality, tech, power, and comfort. It could be due for a mid-cycle refresh.
