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?
In This Article...
Has the Toyota RAV4 a CVT?
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.
When did the Toyota RAV4 acquire 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.
What type of transmission is found in the Toyota RAV4?
A 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and an eight-speed automated transmission power the 2022 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.
Do all Toyota vehicles have CVTs?
Which Toyota models are CVT-equipped? A CVT is either a standard feature or an option on several recent Toyota vehicles. Among them is the Toyota Camry.
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.
Are the CVTs in the Toyota RAV4 dependable?
The Toyota “transmission used in hybrids and PHEVs is extremely very very very reliable, to put it simply. The Prius, especially the 2nd Generation model (20042009, the distinctive oval egg), showed how dependable and long-lasting the “eCVT is. The hybrid eCVT served as the basis for advancements that were produced and applied to other vehicles.
Failures will occur, but they are much more the exception than the rule and occur much less frequently than with other methods of transmission.
The RAV4 from 2018 has a CVT transmission, right?
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors combined to produce 194 horsepower in the RAV4 Hybrid. It comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which works similarly to an automatic transmission.
What model year RAV4 is having transmission issues?
The RAV4’s main problems, primarily with its automatic transmission, occurred in 2002 and 2007. Unfortunately, although having a new iteration, the most recent RAV4 still has issues with its automatic transmission.
2008, 2006, and 2001 are some further troublesome years. There are concerns with every model year, but these five have the most complaints and the most serious problems. Car Concerns also considers how frequently these complaints appear in the media.
Is there a CVT available for the 2019 RAV4?
Connectivity is a crucial function to have, especially given how much your smartphone can do and how essential it is on a daily basis. Numerous connectivity functions are available with the Entune 3 infotainment system. It has Bluetooth built in, making it simple to connect to almost any phone. You can make calls in this manner without having to stop driving. Additionally, you have access to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing you to use your preferred smartphone applications, including navigation apps. It increases the functionality of your RAV4 by integrating your smartphone into the system seamlessly.
Electric All-Wheel Drive
The majority of drivers must decide between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, on the other hand, can perform both thanks to its electric all-wheel drive system. You can turn on the system to activate the additional traction control as necessary. It will use the electric motor and batteries to give you the extra oomph you need to get through challenging circumstances. The best feature is that it has a dedicated motor that is always ready to provide additional power and provide you with a brief boost of additional traction.
ECVT
Many motorists loathe CVTs, but the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid boasts an improved one that gives you the reliable performance and feel you want. A smooth transition between speed levels is provided by the ECVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission), which adjusts to your driving needs. For the optimal performance, it can then precisely match the output of your engine. The RAV4 Hybrid is more fuel-efficient thanks to the increased precision in the powertrain, which also results in more power without wasting gasoline.
You’ll also enjoy the multi-informational display as a feature. Your instrument gauge is replaced with a digital display. You can customize the gauge panel and decide what information is shown. It makes it simpler to swiftly and simply obtain the information you require. Additionally, it is simple to see in any situation, making it a fantastic choice for nighttime driving.
With a significant overhaul for 2019, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a ton of new features to explore. There are four trim levels available for you to select from. Although it is the newest model in the RAV4 family, it has already begun to gain popularity. To better understand the adjustments Toyota made to the RAV4, see it in person. With its quality and features, it will undoubtedly impress you.
Can I buy a 2016 Toyota RAV4 with a CVT?
In contrast to the RAV4 that only runs on gas, the RAV4 Hybrid has a CVT rather than a conventional stepped gearbox. The front-drive LE and XLE are the most economical of the gas-only RAV4 trim levels, at 23/30 mpg city/highway, followed by the SE and Limited at 23/29 mpg.
Is automatic preferable to CVT?
When compared to a conventional automatic, a CVT may offer a smoother driving experience depending on the car and the driver. One of the biggest benefits of having a CVT, according to Carfax, is that they frequently use less fuel than a standard automatic.