The LE, XLE, Adventure, SE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels of the Toyota RAV4 are each available with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The RAV4 has a 176-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that is mated to a 6-speed automated transmission across the board. A flexible lockup torque-converter in the transmission allows for increased efficiency, especially at slower speeds.
The XLE Hybrid keeps the 2.5L four-cylinder engine but adds front and rear electric motors with a combined 194 horsepower, driven by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The engine is front-wheel drive and coupled to a continuously variable transmission, but it also automatically engages the rear motors when more traction is required. The RAV4 Hybrid achieves a combined EPA rating of 33 mpg.
All-wheel-drive vehicles have a Dynamic Torque Control system that, when necessary, may transmit up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels via an electromagnetically controlled connection immediately in front of the rear differential. To enhance fuel efficiency, the system sends all of the available torque to the front wheels. The system has three driving modes: Auto, Sport, and Lock. In heavy snow, mud, or other conditions where slow, sure traction is required or wheel slide may be beneficial, select Lock mode. An automatic limited slip differential that may be used at low speeds and aids in navigating slick terrain, such as a snowy driveway, is standard on front-wheel-drive variants.
The MacPherson strut-type suspension in front and double-wishbones in back give the RAV4 car-like handling. Crisp responsiveness is provided by speed-sensitive electric power rack and pinion steering when maneuvering parking lots or winding mountain roads.
Front seats are updated in XLE and Limited models, and thin-profile front seats aid increase legroom in the back. French stitching on the SofTex leatherette upholstery and trimmings of limited variants further improves the sitting. The rear seats now have more room, and the seatbacks can recline substantially or 60/40 split-flip forward to increase the load capacity (with easy-retracting rear headrests).
Eight airbags in total, including a driver’s knee airbag, and anti-lock brakes with electronic braking-force distribution and brake assist are among the safety features. Radar sensors are used in blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert to alert the driver to oncoming vehicles.
The 17-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, cruise control, power windows, and air conditioning are all standard on RAV4 LE variants. Alloy wheels, roof rails, a sunroof, fog lights, folding power mirrors with integrated turn signals, dual-zone automatic temperature control, sport-bolstered front seats, and a tonneau/cargo cover are additional features added to XLE versions.
With sporty exterior details, 18-inch wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension, the SE trim expands on the characteristics of the XLE level. In addition, it has paddle shifters, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, and a driver’s seat with 8-way power adjustment.
Limited variants also come with leather-wrapped steering wheels, 18-inch alloy wheels, Smart Key entry, push-button start, and synthetic (SofTex) seats.
The Platinum trim of the RAV4 is at the top of the food chain. Additionally, it has a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting in the footwell, an overhead 360-degree camera, and an Entune Premium JBL sound system.
All RAV4 models come standard with Display Music sound systems that have six speakers, a 6.1-inch touch screen, AM/FM/CD, a USB connector, an auxiliary input, Bluetooth audio streaming, and hands-free calling. Using the available navigation system, the climate control settings, or Entune features with mobile apps for services like Bing and Pandora may all be configured via the touchscreen. Additionally, there is a multi-information display with buttons on the steering wheel that provide quick access to trip-computer features and other displays. The RAV4 Limited’s step-up JBL Premium Audio system includes eleven “GreenEdge” speakers and a 576-watt, 8-channel amp.
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Does the Toyota RAV4 have a CVT?
The transmissions of these two SUVs are another obvious distinction. The Toyota RAV4 features a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, but the Subaru Outback has a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
What type of transmission is the RAV4’s in 2021?
A 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and an eight-speed automated transmission power the 2021 RAV4. Although all-wheel drive is now an option, front-wheel drive is still the default system offered by Toyota. This depends on the trim level. The Adventure model we tested included an all-wheel-drive system that could be switched off when necessary to increase fuel efficiency. The 2019 RAV4 outperformed the 2018 model at our test track, clocking in at 60 mph in 8.0 seconds compared to 8.3 seconds for the 2018 model. The obedient four-cylinder may be raucous, especially when trying to pass on the highway, and the transmission in our test car appeared to stutter when it was time to downshift. In our hands, the RAV4 Hybrid, which was reviewed separately, clocked in at an even faster 7.4 seconds to 60 mph. The Mazda CX-5 is our segment favorite, but the RAV4 lacks the same confidence while driving down the highway or along a winding part of road. The RAV4 feels steady and robust in both of these situations.
What model year Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a CVT?
For this generation, the RAV4 is a little more conventional than it was for the last.
Even though the car was a little bit longer than previously, the V6 and third-row seats were gone. But to improve fuel efficiency, a four-cylinder and continuously variable gearbox combination became common. A liftgate was also introduced, and the spare tire was positioned underneath the cargo floor, a design strategy that other compact SUVs had been employing for years.
Toyota updated the RAV4 for the 2016 model year in 2015. It simplified the outside style, improved interior refinement by adding extra soundproofing, and introduced a number of other amenities.
Even though it wasn’t mechanically different from the conventional models, the 2017 lineup was finally expanded to include a tough-looking Adventure model.
Are there any gearbox issues with the 2021 RAV4?
Fist Pump Guy, also known as Gary, claims that there is a quick remedy for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 transmission. He asserts that the issue would be fixed by a software update that was made available in April 2019. However, some consumers said that even after obtaining this update from the Toyota dealership, the transmission issues persisted. In order to receive the update, owners must take their RAV4 to a dealership.
Toyota issued a service bulletin for this problem with the NHTSA catalog number T-SB-0107-19. Those with hesitant acceleration from a rolling halt will receive service. The update for the Engine Control Module lessens the possibility of stuttering. Additionally, the Toyota Federal Emission Warranty covers this repair. Nevertheless, the automaker chose not to initiate a recall for this problem despite these suggested solutions.
For the time being, the Toyota RAV4 model years 20202022 have no known transmission issues. However, when those cars log more miles, new issues can surface. It’s encouraging that the transmission issues with the 2019 model year Toyota RAV4 seem to have been resolved in the current generation of cars. There are only three complaints about the 2021 Toyota RAV4 on Car Complaints.
Which Toyota model does not have a CVT?
Toyota does not provide CVTs in the 86, Avalon (non-hybrid), Mirai, Supra, 4Runner, Highlander, Camry (non-hybrid), Corolla (manual only), Yaris, Land Cruiser, rav4 (non-hybrid), Tacoma, and Tundra.
Will the 2020 RAV4 have a CVT?
Toyota engineers have consistently viewed the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as a crucial tool in their pursuit of the highest levels of performance and fuel economy. What exactly is a CVT and are they available in the Toyota RAV4 series? In this in-depth, thoroughly researched post, we go over this and a lot more.
The fuel-effective CVT in the Toyota RAV4 is far smoother than the standard manual or automatic transmission. Other Toyota RAV4 models with a standard or optional CVT transmission are listed below, in addition to the RAV4:
- RAV4 LE Hybrid from Toyota
- Hybrid Toyota RAV4 XLE
- Hybrid Toyota RAV4 XSE
- Hybrid Toyota RAV4 Limited
CVTs are quickly replacing and updating the conventional automatic transmission. In this article, we’ll define a CVT, describe how it operates, and discuss its dependability. We’ll also take a deeper look at the various RAV4 models’ specifications, aesthetics, and functionalities. Why don’t we start now?
Are the CVTs in the Toyota RAV4 dependable?
Transmissions that have been tried and true over the past 20 years are perhaps the most dependable ones currently on the road. Even though they don’t require much care, anyone who has spent more than ten minutes around them will advise replacing the transmission fluid. Like a manual transaxle or differential, they empty and fill. Depending on your driving habits, it just takes about 15 minutes to complete and costs affordable insurance every 30 to 60 000 miles. Otherwise, they are quite resilient, which is why Toyota hybrids have taken over as the preferred taxi car. There are several vehicles with original drivetrains and 400k or more miles on the road in New York City.
Toyota CVT
The Toyota CVT transmission is marketed as the greatest option for both performance and fuel economy. The most effective elements of the traditional transmission and CVT are combined in Toyota’s Direct Shift CVT.
The Direct Shift-CVT uses a standard transmission’s initial gear to assist the car accelerate more quickly. The transmission switches to a CVT mode once the vehicle reaches the speed where a CVT is preferable. The following are the Direct Shift-top CVT’s advantages:
- amazing shift speed
- an increase in fuel economy of 6%
- increased belt effectiveness
- Ratio spread increased by 15%
- a small belt angle
The following Toyota models have a regular CVT (not a Direct Shift CVT):
- Honda CR-V
- Subaru Prius
- Corolla, Toyota
- Honda C-HR
- Honda Accord
Toyota is frequently praised for its dependability. They have experienced recalls even though this is generally the case. The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback was subject to one of the largest recalls because the CVT’s torque converters were prone to breaking.
Honda CVT
The Honda CVT has a special feature called Honda Control. The auto identifies “sporty driving” (i.e., driving down a curving road) and will keep the engine running at a higher speed. The vehicle enhances the smoothness of the ride during acceleration and deceleration by keeping a greater engine speed.
The Honda CVT offers the following key advantages:
- increased fuel efficiency
- smoother gear shifts for a more comfortable ride
- Honda Management
Numerous Honda models come with CVTs, such as:
- Honda Accord
- Honda Civic
- Subaru Fit
- Subaru Insight
Honda recalled a significant number of CVT transmissions. The 2014 and 2015 Honda Civic was subject to one recall because of a software problem with the transmission. Drive shaft pulleys broke as a result of pressure the program put on the CVT pulley. In addition, Honda is being sued for CVT transmission issues with the 20162018 Honda Civic, where the car claims to be in park when it is not.
Toyota CVT transmissions are they dependable?
Because of the smoothness they offer in urban areas and because Toyota and other manufacturers of hybrid vehicles favor CVTs, they are widely used.
On the other hand, CVT gears often offer excellent fuel efficiency and are extremely dependable. They are currently providing strong acceleration when you wish to pull away. Toyota offers the CVT in a number of different models, including the ones listed below. To find out if they have the characteristics you seek, click through!
Conclusion
Hopefully you now know what a CVT transmission is! Naturally, while buying a car, the reliability of the CVT transmission might play a significant role in your decision.
Even Toyota’s current lineup has several vehicles with CVT transmissions, including the Corolla and C-HR! Do you already drive a car with a CVT or have you ever considered getting one? Tell us if you drive a car with a CVT transmission or not by leaving a comment below!
Which issues does the Toyota RAV4 have?
There were 35 reports of gearbox issues made by RAV4 drivers as of December 2021. One customer claimed that after purchasing a 2019 RAV4 with 17,500 kilometers, he frequently experienced issues with the gears changing correctly. When this RAV4 owner brought his vehicle to a Toyota dealership, the problem was fixed with a software update. As vehicles do not become better with time, these kinds of software updates are frequently more of a band aid than a remedy.
Another driver complained that his RAV4 was lurching forward at slower speeds, making the on-ramp to the busy 10 highway unpredictable and perhaps dangerous. Shuttering and shaking were other prevalent concerns. He was informed that his vehicle was functioning as intended and that the dealership could not reproduce the problem.
There were reportedly six recalls for the 2019 RAV4 due to difficulties with the backup camera, separating suspension arms, and coolant leaks, among other things. Surprisingly, there were no transmission-related recalls.
Transmission issues with the 2019 Toyota RAV4 have been extensively reported. The 2020 RAV4 was expected to be an improved model, but there have already been far too many complaints and reports of unhappiness. The 2020 RAV4 has a number of concerns that drivers are having, some of which are listed below:
- Unsteady transmission.
- Transmission that is slow.
- Transmission Leaks
- The fuel gauge occasionally malfunctions and indicates that the tank is empty.
- Sometimes the brakes give out suddenly.
- Alignment and steering problems
No recalls have yet been issued as a result of the 2020 RAV4 transmission issues. But these are the recalls for the 2020 Toyota RAV4 as of April 2021:
- Select 2020 RAV4s have engine problems and coolant leaks, which led Toyota to conduct a recall and provide some RAV4 owners a free replacement engine and engine block.
- Toyota has agreed to replace the front lower suspension arms on some 2020 RAV4s at no cost in order to restore their safety. These arms may have cracks in them.
- Toyota has decided to replace the power steering gearboxes in a small number of 2020 RAV4s because they have issues with the electric power steering system.
- Toyota was compelled to replace the fuel pump assemblies in select 2020 RAVs because the fuel pumps in those vehicles have started to malfunction and create engine issues.
- Toyota is offering to replace the steering columns in select 2020 RAV4s because they may have an influence on the airbags in them.
Several sources claim that a software update that was issued on April 15, 2019, can fix the Toyota RAV4 transmission. However, other owners claimed that even after receiving updates from the Toyota dealership, the transmission issues persisted, and owners had to take their RAV4 to a dealership to get the update.