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...
The RAV4 from 2019 has a CVT transmission, right?
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.
Is there a CVT transmission in the Toyota RAV4?
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).
Present Toyota RAV4 (5th Generation)
For 2019, the newest Toyota RAV4 made its premiere. It transitioned to a contemporary platform used by numerous brand-new Toyota passenger automobiles. The width rose while the length somewhat shrank.
The RAV4 hybrid’s power grew to 219 horsepower, while the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine now produced 206 horsepower. The hybrid’s fuel economy is rated at 41/38/40 MPG in the city, on the highway, and in the combined cycle. To improve driver control, the CVT now imitated an eight-speed traditional automatic transmission.
All-wheel-drive vehicles now have a controller that allows the driver to choose the type of road so that the car may be properly programmed to maintain motion. Additionally, the Adventure model was back.
The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid crossover, was also introduced with this generation of the RAV4. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor provide 302 horsepower in total. It has a 42-mile range on electric power alone and a 40/36/38 combination city/highway/combined fuel economy rating.
Along with a wireless smartphone charger, other technology features included compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa.
Adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with automatic braking, and lane departure warning were all featured as standard safety features.
Toyota also introduced the new Adventure, TRD Off-Road, and Limited trims for this version of the RAV4.
The RAV4 is still one of the best-selling cars in the United States despite all the changes.
Toyota RAV4 (4th Generation)
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.
Toyota RAV4 (3rd Generation)
Toyota drastically increased the RAV4 for 2007 in order to provide customers more of what they desired.
A V6 was made available for the first time, providing 268 horsepower, significantly more than anything else in the class, although a four-cylinder engine with slightly greater power was still the standard. The car itself extended by 15 inches, and some models even included a third row of seats. It could only be used by children due to its small size, but when not in use, it could be folded into the cargo floor.
As before, front-wheel drive was the default and all-wheel drive was an option. An automatic transmission was now standard on all variants.
Additionally, this generation added amenities like push-button start, keyless entry, available backup cameras and navigation systems, and side curtain airbags. Run-flat tires were also available on a Sport variant.
2012 saw the introduction of an electric-only version of this generation. The RAV4 EV had a 37kWh battery pack with a range of about 100 miles thanks to a deal with Tesla. In California, a limited number of clients could lease it for three years for $599 a month. There were about 2,500 made. The EV did not have a third row seat or spare tire.
Toyota RAV4 (2nd Generation)
Toyota increased the size of the second generation, which was released in 2002, in order to capitalize on the RAV4’s surprise popularity. The vehicle, which is now exclusively offered as a five-door, has grown in length by about three inches and in width by about an inch and a half to provide more room for passengers and goods.
Additionally, power rose by roughly 20 horsepower. Although a four-speed automatic transmission was an option, most buyers chose the conventional five-speed manual.
Later on in the life of this model, a 2.4-liter, 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine was installed.
Stability control, a six-disc CD changer, and a driver’s seat with height adjustment were among the new amenities.
An exclusive Sport Package was made available. It included decorative elements such as an imitation hood scoop, chrome highlights, and unique wheels.
Toyota RAV4 (1st Generation)
When Toyota introduced the RAV4 in the United States in 1996, it carved out a brand-new market segment by combining the elevated driving position and rough styling of an SUV with the comfort and economy of a car.
The RAV4 shared a chassis with several Toyota cars and had a 120 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a basic five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic.
The initial body variants were a four-seat, three-door vehicle and a larger five-seat, five-door model, but a convertible model debuted in 1998.
The RAV4 had basic front-wheel drive with an all-wheel-drive option, which was unusual for an SUV at the time.
All RAV4s had power windows, locks, and mirrors as standard equipment, and many also had air conditioning and alloy wheels.
The back door’s ability to swing outward rather than upward, along with the spare tire mounted on the door, were two RAV4 features that endured for many years. However, the design was a hit and inspired rivals like the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V.
All-electric RAV4 models were temporarily made available to government fleets in 1997 before being made available to the general public in 2003. It had a top speed of 85 mph and an estimated range of 95 miles. It had a 27kWh battery pack.
How many gears does a 2019 Toyota RAV4 have in its transmission?
The 2019 RAV4’s gasoline engine produces 203 horsepower and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Adventure variant we tested had a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system with the ability to disconnect the rear axle to increase fuel efficiency. This new RAV4 outperformed its predecessor at our test track, reaching 60 mph in 8.0 seconds for the 2019 model and 8.3 seconds for the 2018 model. The obedient four-cylinder engine may be noisy, especially when attempting to pass on the highway, and the transmission in our test car appeared to stutter when a downshift was required. We haven’t tried the hybrid powertrain that will be offered with the RAV4 but is unique in its class and pricing range.
Although the ride and steering feel are greatly improved, the RAV4 is still not an athlete. It doesn’t inspire as much as the Mazda CX-5, but it feels robust and steady when driving down the highway and won’t crash if thrown into a curvy section of road. With a smooth, firm brake pedal underfoot, our test vehicle stopped from 70 mph in 166 feet, demonstrating good braking capability.
RAV4 is automatic or 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.
Is there a CVT available for the 2020 RAV4?
The TRD Off-Road package is a new feature for the 2020 Toyota RAV4 that adds “mucho to the already-macho soft-looksjust roader’s not much hardware.
An inline-4 powers every crossover, TRD Off-Road or otherwise. Although they don’t provide much more power, RAV4 hybrids improve fuel efficiency by adding an electric motor and batteries.
The RAV4 performs well overall, even if some vehicles do somewhat better, so we award it an average performance rating. It’s a 5.
A standard 2.5-liter inline-4 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission and 203 horsepower powers the gas-only RAV4. It’s capable but not particularly refined. All crossovers are standard with front-wheel drive, but only Adventure and TRD Off-Road trim levels come standard with all-wheel drive.
In the RAV4, Toyota provides two all-wheel-drive systems: The TRD Off-Road, Adventure, and Limited trims come with an all-wheel-drive system that also uses the brakes to provide side-to-side traction. LE and XLE trims come standard with a traditional system that quietly moves power around. The latter technology brakes slipping wheels when it notices them in order to improve traction on the non-slipping wheels. Although efficient, the technology somewhat reduces fuel efficiency.
The RAV4 has a smooth ride over bumps thanks to its sturdy structure and four-wheel independent suspension (MacPherson struts up front and multi-link, trailing wishbones in back). However, rivals like the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V are a little softer.
The 2.5-liter inline-4 of the RAV4 Hybrid is enhanced with a nickel-metal hydride battery and electric motor to produce 219 horsepower. To maintain the crossover’s efficiency, an electronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is used. The RAV4 Hybrid’s exceptional combined EPA rating of 39 mpg when compared to the standard RAV4 is remarkable. The 39 mpg rating is also outstanding when compared to just about every other car on the road.
The RAV4 Hybrid is kept at low rpm by the CVT; press the throttle and the Hybrid continues to roar.
All-wheel drive is the only drivetrain option for the RAV4 Hybrid, but it isn’t as well-designed as the RAV4 Adventure or TRD Off-Road trims. Off-roaders might not even think about the hybrid RAV4 because it can take a moment or two longer to scrabble to gain traction.
Despite the additional weight, the RAV4 rides comfortably. In our tests, it behaves just as coolly and collectedly as the conventional RAV4.
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.
Is there a CVT available for the 2018 Toyota RAV4?
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.
How many gears does a Toyota RAV4 have in its transmission?
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.