The RAV4 is the best-selling SUV in the world. it is convenient, reliable and practical. It’s easy to love Toyota’s little SUV, but it’s not the right choice for every driver. There are still fierce competitors taking market share from the RAV4. Here are some reasons to give up on the world’s best-selling SUV.
1. The world’s best-selling SUV isn’t as refined as some rivals
Toyota excels in manufacturing value-oriented vehicles. The Japanese automaker is not known for the quality of the cabin. Its Lexus luxury division is more geared towards producing classy and comfortable vehicles.
They’re two small SUVs that have great cabins for their starting prices. The Toyota RAV4 is the most popular small SUV in the country, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best in its segment for the money. The younger nameplates have the potential to dethrone the RAV4 in the future.
2. Some small SUVs can outlive the RAV4
If longevity is what you’re after, the Toyota RAV4 is a great option. It’s not the only option. Contrary to popular belief, there are some small SUVs that can outlast Toyota’s small SUV if well maintained.
According to iSeeCars.com, an automotive research website, the Honda CR-V and are both (slightly) more reliable than the RAV4. Several automotive publications rate the Honda CR-V as the longest-running small SUV. This is important if you want the longest ownership experience possible.
Well maintained Honda CR-V models can last over 250,000 miles or a total of 17 years. This is more than double the average new vehicle ownership period (8.4 years).
Thus, the small SUV from Toyota remains one of the most reliable options in its segment, but it can be surpassed. Choosing a Honda CR-V over the RAV4 could mean a few more years of ownership.
3. There is a better version of the Toyota RAV4 on the market
The final reason for ditching the world’s best-selling SUV takes a minute to elaborate. The gas-powered RAV4 is the best-selling model, but is it the best iteration of the RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is fast becoming popular due to its great standard features and stellar fuel economy. The RAV4 Hybrid gets better gas mileage and can travel further on a full tank of gas than its predecessor. Best of all, it’s not much more expensive than the OG version.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid starts at $30,725. The 2023 RAV4 starts at $27,975. That’s a $2,750 price difference. The RAV4 Hybrid comes with all-wheel drive as standard. Between its hybrid propulsion system and standard all-wheel drive, the RAV4 Hybrid’s higher starting price is justified for many consumers. According to , the small hybrid SUV gets 40 miles per gallon combined.
The RAV4 has earned the title of the most popular SUV in the world. The question is, how long can the Japanese small SUV hold the title?
