Toyota RAV4 2.0 AWD GX-R (2019) Review
Fast Facts:
Price: R508 100
Engine: 2.0-litre i4 naturally-aspirated petrol
Gearbox: CVT
Fuel economy: 6.7 L/100 km (claimed)
Power/Torque: 127 kW/203 Nm
Pricing and warranty
The Toyota RAV4 range kicks off with the 2.0 GX derivative, the price of which begins at R416 400. This version is the 2.0 AWD GX-R, which retails for R508 100, while the top-of-the-range 2.5 AWD VX comes in at R577 900. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan are standard across the range.
Verdict
When we first shared images and info about the new Toyota RAV4, not all of our users were convinced by the newcomer's outlandish (by RAV4 standards) looks. Comments such as "it looks like a Jeep" were bandied about and while social media commentary is to be taken with a hefty pinch of salt, the underlying sentiment was valid. Most South African consumers are conservative by default: vehicles that are extreme, too "out of the comfort zone" and quirky are at risk of selling poorly.
However, our fears of the RAV4 not carrying on where its previous generation left off were totally unfounded as customers looked beyond the product at face value and explored its other talents. The result? As many as 839 units of the RAV4 were sold in April 2019, which is 23 more than the entrenched-in-SA Fortuner could muster. It's not surprising: the look-at-me styling grew on us during the RAV4's tenure and we found its build quality, practicality and refinement deeply impressive.
Should you buy one? The lack of a torquey turbodiesel option or another form of forced induction dents the aspirations of those who wish to tow and if you do need to tow trailers regularly, then we suggest you fork out a bit more for a diesel-powered entry-level 2.4 GD-6 Fortuner, which is similarly priced. No need to tow (and not all people do)? Good, because then you'll be satisfied with the levels of comfort, space and refinement in the new RAV4. Granted, the engine is not the most enthusiastic – you'll encounter some mildly unpleasant noise when the GX-R ascends a steep hill while fully loaded.
If you have a relaxed driving style, however, you'll be hard-pressed to find a gentler cruising experience in the family car segment. The new RAV4 is one of those vehicles in which you can effortlessly cover hundreds of kilometres and emerge from the cabin feeling reasonably fresh. There aren't many drawbacks to the package, but we would have liked more connectivity options. Overseas models come with fancy JBL sound systems, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility and Amazon Alexa, but perhaps the inclusion of such a high-end setup would have driven up the range's asking prices too far.
All in all, the new RAV4 feels thoroughly fresh and represents a big leap forward for Toyota's popular family car offering. With rugged styling, a well-thought-out cabin and ample space, it's virtually guaranteed to remain a popular choice.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/toyota-rav4-20-awd-gx-r-2019-review/46608/







