If you’re considering buying a brand-new compact SUV, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is a common option. As one of the most popular vehicles in its class, it’s earned its reputation. For the 2023 model year, the RAV4 is touted as a comfortable, spacious, accessible model with a quiet interior. However, there are many trim levels in the lineup, so which should you choose? No matter what you’re interested in, there’s only one 2023 Toyota RAV4 trim that’s worth buying, the XLE Premium model.

Which 2023 Toyota RAV4 trim should you buy?

You’ll find a few different answers if you’re searching for the best 2023 Toyota RAV4 trim. Within the lineup, there are four different trim levels that vary significantly in equipment and price. Moreover, it’s worth noting that none of the RAV4 trims are bad. Each one provides a surprising amount of value for the price, which is one of the best things about the Toyota compact SUV. Everyone has different requirements, but you can’t go wrong with the Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium.

We agree with other experts that the best RAV4 trim to buy is the XLE Premium. Unfortunately, it isn’t the cheapest in the lineup, but it isn’t much more expensive either. Starting at $33,710, the XLE Premium trim is roughly $4,500 more than the LE base model. It comes with everything included with the LE and XLE trims, plus even more.

For example, LED foglights, 19-inch wheels, a slightly raised suspension, a sunroof, a power liftgate, and synthetic leather upholstery.

Edmunds recommends the RAV4 XLE Premium

First, Edmunds recommends buying the 2023 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium. “In addition to all of the features found in the supporting LE and XLE models, you get some desirable updates that include a power liftgate, a sunroof and synthetic leather upholstery.”

It’s clear that the additional features included with this trim level are essentials most people value. In addition, the price doesn’t rise very much from lower trims. It’s also difficult to justify paying more for the RAV4, like with the Limited trim. Not only is it more expensive, but features like an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system are unnecessary for most compact SUV buyers.

Car and Driver agree about the best RAV4 trim

If you really want to test if a trim is the best, check with multiple experts. Car and Driver agree with Edmunds about which RAV4 to buy. Many critics rarely agree on something, so that’s how we know it’s true. C/D perfectly explained that it’s tempting to go for higher trims for off-road capability or some extra luxurious features, but the XLE Premium has everything a driver truly needs.

“It provides plenty of standard equipment that the LE and XLE don’t offer, such as 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, faux-leather upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Toyota makes its suite of driver-assistance features standard across the lineup, so there’s not much reason to go with a pricier trim—unless, of course, you really want ventilated seats.”

1 Toyota RAV4 trim worth buying

In conclusion, there is only one 2023 Toyota RAV4 trim worth buying. If you’re interested in the compact SUV, the XLE Premium trim is the best bang for your buck option. Other options in the RAV4 lineup are excellent, but none provide as much value. Higher trims are perfect for buyers searching for more luxury in their crossover, while lower trims offer the basics at an affordable price. Choosing the expert-recommended XLE Premium gets owners the best of both worlds.