The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. And for good reason. With versatile performance, reliable powertrains, and good looks, it’s a well-rounded SUV that drivers can trust. 

With a resume like that, it would seem the current RAV4 has plenty to offer for years to come. On the other hand, it hasn’t had a full redesign in a while. Does that matter? 

Let’s explore the Toyota RAV4, when it last had a redesign, and when we can expect a new version. 

2019 was the last time Toyota gave the RAV4 a real redesign

According to Torque News, Toyota last redesigned the RAV4 in 2019. Evidently, they found the right formula. The fifth-generation model has been a huge success, with astronomical sales figures. It serves as a trusted go-to for everyday drivers. In short, it’s a hit. 

The fifth-generation RAV4 has 57% greater chassis rigidity than the prior version, along with Dynamic Torque-Vectoring All-Wheel Drive. A multi-link rear suspension improves ride and handling. Repositioned side mirrors enhance visibility. 

As with any Toyota, the 2019 and newer RAV4 has a stout powertrain for hardy performance day in and day out. Standard is a 2.5-liter four with 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque that gets 27/34 mpg city/highway.

There are also hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) options for even greater torque and efficiency. The former makes 219 hp/252 lb-ft of torque and obtains 41/38 mpg city/highway. The latter produces 302 hp/288 lb-ft of torque, and achieves 94 mpge, along with a 42-mile all-electric range. 

Besides that, handsome styling and a high-quality interior give drivers all they could ask for. Whether cruising the boulevard or hitting the trails, the RAV4 looks good and drives comfortably. 

For the 2022 model year, Toyota refreshed the RAV4, adding a new SE Hybrid trim, stacked LED headlamps (except LE trim), new wheel designs, LED interior lighting, and more.

This is par for the course

While the RAV4 hasn’t been redesigned in a while, there’s good reason for that.

Through the years, as a manufacturer builds more and more of a specific model, they work out any mechanical bugs. So, while the fifth-generation RAV4 has been around for a while, buyers can trust it’s a refined piece of machinery. 

Not only that, but with the RAV4’s sales success, why mess with a good thing? As long as the compact SUV keeps flying off lots, there’s not much incentive to introduce a new model. Besides that, it gives Toyota more time for R&D on the next version. 

When will we see a new Toyota RAV4?

The 2024 RAV4 is ready for a strong finish to its successful run. And, according to rumors, the 6th-gen RAV4 should debut for the 2025 model year. Here are the details. 

Highlighting the Toyota 2024 RAV4 lineup is the Hybrid Woodland Edition. Exterior-wise, this outdoor-focused trim has available two-tone paint like Ice Cap or Army Green, combined with a Midnight Black Metallic roof. And with racy 18-inch bronze TRD alloy wheels, the Woodland looks ready for the trails. Additional features consist of high-profile black roof rails, 1 ¼-inch rear activity mount, and Falken WILDPEAK AT off-road tires.

Other than that, the RAV4 doesn’t offer many updates, other than a $900 price increase. But with a new model on the way, prospective buyers can begin saving their dollars and cents.

While details are sparse, rumors indicate a new RAV4 for 2025, as reported by Top Electric SUV. Speculation points to a 124-mile all-electric range for PHEV versions, for a new era of hybrid SUV efficiency. Other possible features consist of more comfortable passenger seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an MSRP of around $32,000. We can’t wait. 

Though the current RAV4 is due for a redesign, it’s still a strong package. With reliability and versatility that’s hard to match, the Toyota SUV keeps topping the sales charts. Because of that, there isn’t an urgent need to introduce a new version.

For 2024, the RAV4 Woodland Edition gives the model a strong sendoff, with rumors suggesting a sixth-gen model appearing in 2025. With Toyota’s engineering expertise, the new version could set a new standard for compact SUVs.