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The clock is ticking for the Toyota RAV4 as it struggles against more modern SUVs. On the various lists of the best compact SUVs for 2024 and 2025, the RAV4 is tumbling down. However, it’s still more popular than ever. 

Why is the Toyota RAV4 heading toward last place? 

According to the U.S.News, the Toyota RAV4 is in a four-way tie with the Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-50, and Kia Sportage. Each of these SUVs has a score of 8.7 out of 10. 

While coming in fifth place isn’t bad, the RAV4 isn’t coming ahead of these rivals. It’s simply on par with them. The 2024 Mazda CX-5 is in first place with a score of 9.2. 

Also, after the RAV4, the 2025 Subaru Forester landed in ninth place with a score of 8.6. The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is in last place with a score of 7.8. 

Critics complain about the Toyota RAV4 because it’s a little sluggish. It’s powered by 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, which is behind the class average. 

Plus, comfort could be improved. While small impacts are quickly absorbed, the ride is a bit firm and bumpy. There is a fair amount of engine noise at highway speeds and the engine emits a coarse whine. 

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 off-roading on a dirt trail
2024 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

The interior is spacious and passengers benefit from rear air vents. But the seats are a little firm and the passenger seat doesn’t have any height adjustment controls. 

Other than those issues, it excels as a capable SUV with above-average off-roading capabilities. It has plenty of cargo space for gear and the roof rails provide extra storage room. The tech is modern and easy to use with plenty of physical buttons. 

The Toyota RAV4 has a long list of standard features to add to its value. It comes with LED headlights, 17-inch steel wheels, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite radio, and a wi-fi hotspot. 

Overall, the RAV4 is a well-rounded SUV with tons of value for the class. But is it time to become more athletic, comfortable, and refined?

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.