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Do people buy the most recommended version of the 2022 Toyota RAV4? One trim level is more popular than all the others. Every version of the Toyota SUV is a viable option, but some are better than others. According to a few experts, the best RAV4 trim level is not the most popular. Experts don’t recommend the most popular 2022 Toyota RAV4 trim.

2022 Toyota RAV4 hybrid side view by a snow mountain
2022 Toyota RAV4 hybrid side view by a snowy mountain | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

According to Edmunds, the most popular 2022 Toyota RAV4 trim is the XLE model. Out of six available options, the second cheapest is the one people usually buy. In its most affordable form, the RAV4 LE costs $28,190. However, opting for the XLE trim costs $29,660. What makes the XLE more popular than the base model?

Those who choose to buy the base RAV4 LE will still get a wide variety of equipment. Items like LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of safety features are all included. Features in the suite are forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, a lane-keep system, automatic high beams, and a traffic sign reader. Why do people keep upgrading to the XLE trim with all that equipment?

Choosing the most popular 2022 Toyota RAV4 trim gets customers all the LE features plus more. Paying around $1,500 more adds keyless entry and ignition, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a blind-spot monitor, dual-zone automatic climate control, and additional USB ports. Do those items sound like they’re worth the upgrade? We think you’d be better off upgrading to the XLE Premium trim, and other experts agree.

The best 2022 Toyota RAV4 trim, according to experts

Front angle view of Cavalry Blue 2022 Toyota RAV4
2022 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

Car and Driver and Edmunds agree that the 2022 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium trim is the best option overall. Compared to the most popular XLE model, it adds more desirable features without breaking the bank. Understandably, the cheaper trim is more popular, but we think it’s worth the upgrade.

CAD says it chooses the XLE Premium because it provides plenty of standard equipment the lower trim levels don’t offer. Additionally, the XLE Premium model remains affordable, at $32,550, compared to higher trims. Although some features like ventilated seats are lovely in the more expensive models, there’s little value elsewhere.

Next, Edmunds recommends the same XLE Premium model. Customers gain LED foglights, 19-inch wheels, a slightly raised suspension, a sunroof, a power liftgate, and simulated leather upholstery for just a bit more cash. That’s a lot of value for roughly $3,000 more. Opting for higher trims will get you fewer additional items and cost more money.

Is the RAV4 TRD Off-Road worth it?

Choosing the TRD Off-Road model will cost you $38,130. That’s quite a jump from the recommended XLE Premium trim and even more from the most popular XLE model. With the range-topping RAV4 TRD Off-Road, customers get 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, and unique black trim elements inside and out. Does that sound like it’s worth the money to you?

We don’t think so, and neither does Edmunds or Car and Driver. Overall, it’s not very likely that hardcore off-roading will occur inside a 2022 Toyota RAV4. For those wanting a serious all-terrain experience, choose a 4Runner or Tacoma from the same automaker. As for the RAV4, the off-road options are nice but likely unnecessary. For the most part, the XLE Premium model will provide the most bang for your buck.

In conclusion, the best 2022 Toyota RAV4 is the XLE Premium model. However, the most popular version of the SUV is the XLE trim. While the XLE trim is affordable and has some excellent features, the XLE Premium optimizes the RAV4. Since the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of features comes standard, the trim you choose depends on your personal needs. Finding a suitable model can be challenging, but most experts agree it’s the RAV4 XLE Premium, not the most popular XLE.

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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.