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The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular vehicles in the world. As a brand, Toyota has a reputation for building reliable high-quality vehicles at an affordable price. Historically, the RAV4 is no different. This SUV is safe, reliable, and excellent to drive. However, there are a few drawbacks to the 2022 Toyota RAV4.

1. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 has an unrefined engine

According to reviews from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds, the unrefined engine is one of the 2022 Toyota RAV4’s low points. When many different reviewers say the same thing, it’s usually true.

Each RAV4 model uses a 203 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but an all-wheel drive is available for every trim level.

MotorTrend calls the engine “thrashy” but notes that the hybrid and Prime variants are a bit smoother. The reviewer also mentions that the ride isn’t as controlled as the Honda CR-V. Reportedly, the Honda CR-V rides more smoothly, is more fun to drive, and provides more interior space. Overall, the 2022 RAV4’s engine isn’t better than its biggest rival’s.

2. The base model is pretty barebones

Sure, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 starts below $30,000, but what does that get you? If the base model is far worse than every other model, you shouldn’t waste money. It’s hard to recommend the LE base model when the XLE and XLE premium provide so much more luxury for just a few thousand dollars more.

A 2022 Toyota RAV4 LE base model misses out on LED fog lamps, 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, faux-leather upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and knob. Fortunately, Toyota’s suite of driver assistance features is standard across all models. That makes it easy to recommend the well-equipped XLE or XLE Premium trims, but not the base model or most expensive trims.

3. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 doesn’t offer great legroom up front

Edmunds says the front passenger seat in the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is uncomfortable. “As for the front seats, they are nicely sculpted and padded appropriately, but the seat bottoms begin to feel flat on longer drives.” This indicates a low-quality material inside and out of the seats and definitely won’t do well if you’re a long-term owner. The reviewer also noted that the passenger side does not have much adjustment ability. That tends to make it challenging to find a comfortable position in which to sit.

Additionally, Edmunds noted that the seat quality and comfort could be upgraded, but only with the Limited trim. What this means is you’ll have to pay a minimum of $37,000 for comfortable front seats in your 2022 RAV4. That’s nearly $10,000 more than the LE base model, making it much less affordable than other options in the same segment.

Should you buy a 2022 Toyota RAV4?

By no means is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 a lousy SUV. It’s a great SUV with some minor flaws that could give rivals the advantage. With options like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 available, the RAV4 needs to be perfect.

Although a weak engine and uncomfortable seats don’t seem like much, the price increase is significant to improve these things. Especially when the competition offers the solution for a more affordable price.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.