A 9-inch touchscreen, a motorized liftgate, and heated front seats with a heated steering wheel are all optional extras.
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Is the steering wheel on the 2019 RAV4 heated?
Industry professionals refer to the Toyota RAV4 as a category killer. This means that Toyota sells a lot of them and that the opposition, although believing that its car is more attractive and capable, is unable to unseat the king.
The fourth-generation RAV4 wasn’t as exciting as some other compact crossovers, and it was outdated. There were 11 different trim levels to choose from, but they all had a similar appearance. Despite its obscurity, the old RAV4 was America’s best-selling passenger car last year (pickups excluded).
The fifth-generation RAV4 has improved on many aspects, which is bad news for the rivals.
As proven by the three trim levels making their global debuts at the 2018 New York car show, it actually does look different. The 2019 RAV4 has a more noticeable front end that is slightly slanted but not far enough to earn the nickname “shark-nose,” making it racier and sportier. The new RAV4 sports redesigned grilles, sharp LED headlights, and squared-off octagonal wheel arches on the front end (think Lexus), and a spoiler, LED taillamps, and twin exhaust on the rear. To improve sight, the side mirror is moved from the A-pillar to the door.
However, the significant modifications are found beneath the sheet metal. The RAV4 switches to Toyota’s much-touted TNGA platform from its tiny chassis used by other small cars (Toyota New Global Architecture). The crossover also switches from the TNGA C platform (Prius, C-HR, and eventually Corolla) to the K midsize platform along with the Camry and Avalon with a longer wheelbase.
The switch increases the RAV4’s wheelbase by 1.2 inches to 105.9 inches, widens the track, and raises the ground clearance by half an inch. However, the overall length is reduced by 2.6 inches as a result of the wheels being forced to the corners. A more stable posture is the outcome. Bonus: The new architecture enables top trims to be equipped with 19-inch wheels.
Toyota’s brand-new Dynamic Force 2.5-liter I-4 with direct and port injection and VVT-iE has replaced the old 2.5-liter inline-four. Expect similar numbers here since the engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque in the Camry. An eight-speed automatic is used in place of the six-speed.
The gas engine is coupled to an upgraded CVT, an electric motor, and four hybrid vehicles. The Camry Hybrid produces 176 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque.
There are currently no high-end turbo-fours or V-6s planned; executives claim the I-4 is competitive in its class. Although plug-in hybrids and full electric vehicles were intended to be compatible with the architecture, they were not originally planned for the RAV4.
Better handling was another goal while designing the TNGA platform, which is lighter and stronger. The rigidity of the unibody chassis is increased by 57%. Its exact weight is unknown according to officials. But if TNGA can make a dowdy Prius feel enjoyable, consider what a RAV4 could do.
The RAV4 has all-wheel drive for the first time on the TNGA. Additionally, it gets Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Driveshaft Disconnect, making it the first Toyota marque to do so. Sending up to 50% of the available power to the rear wheels when necessary, as well as to the specific wheel that needs it most, is standard on the Limited and Adventure AWD trim levels. Driveshaft Disconnect converts the car into a front-driver that uses less fuel by preventing power from traveling to the rear when it is not needed. The hybrids have the upgraded AWD-i technology, while lower trim levels have an AWD system without torque vectoring.
Multi-Terrain Select, in addition to Normal, Eco, and Sport settings, offers the best traction in snow, mud, sand, pebbles, or dirt. Toyota now adds downhill assist control with torque vectoring in addition to the hill climbing control that comes standard on the RAV4.
In order to appeal to both urbanites and outdoor adventurers, the RAV4’s nine trim levels for the 2019 model year are more distinctive. There are five trim levels with gasoline engines and four trim levels with hybrid powertrains.
The exciting new addition to the lineup is the two-tone performance-trim XSE Hybrid, which promises to be the fastest off the line while maintaining best-in-class fuel economy. We need specs and a test vehicle to back up those assertions. Standard paint is two-tone with black accents for a meaner appearance on the lower rockers, front end, mirror caps, foglamps, and wheel arches. The sport-tuned suspension with stiffer shocks and springs is only available on this model. For the first time, a panoramic sunroof is an option, and the inside is a luxurious black with blue accents. The hump in the cargo space is eliminated by moving the batteries behind the back seat, resulting in a flat floor and segment-leading load capacity.
To entice customers off-road, the Adventure trim adopts Tacoma pickup characteristics, such as the prominent lower lip and foglight design. Toyota hasn’t released exact figures yet, but it boasts stronger roof rails, a higher towing capability than the previous model’s 3,500 pounds, distinctive 19-inch wheels, and a new “lunar green” color that will only be available on the RAV4 for the first year. The interior of the black leather is scorched by orange stitching. Even in the second seat, there is plenty of headroom inside. There was no desire to reinstate the third-row seating option. The car takes care of charging your phone wirelessly on a rubbery surface next to the USB port. There are five USB ports total, including two for backseat users. Additionally, the front passenger gets a sturdy shelf where they can keep their phone.
Entune 3.0 comes with a 7.0-inch infotainment screen as standard; upgraded models come with an 8.0-inch screen, satellite radio, and navigation. Apple CarPlay is now available on the RAV4 along with the new Avalon and Corolla Hatchback, but Android Auto is still unavailable due to Toyota’s ongoing dispute with Google over the sharing of third-party app data. The RAV4 now offers Wi-Fi and Alexa connectivity for 2019, an improvement over the Camry’s system. The JBL sound system has eleven speakers.
A 7.0-inch cluster display in front of the driver shows the power distribution to each wheel using torque vectoring on one of the screen options.
A digital rearview mirror is available in a Toyota sold in North America for the first vehicle (Limited trim only). Turn on the camera view to get a larger perspective of your surroundings and the ability to choose between showing more or less of one side of the scene.
Although the 2019 model gains more soft-touch components and surfaces, the RAV4 shouldn’t be considered luxurious. The front seats are heated; chilled seats, a heated steering wheel, and warm rear seats are optional.
With the addition of automated emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist recognition during the day and at night, as well as lane keeping assistance with Lane Tracing Assist, which keeps the car centered rather than pinging from side to side, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 is now available. Another feature updates the driver’s display with information concerning signs, such as speed restrictions.
Electric parking brakes are now standard across all trim levels, taking the place of the manual parking brake lever. It allows for full-speed dynamic stopping, which will completely stop the vehicle.
The Limited is currently the top trim as a result of the decision to eliminate Platinum. The SE gas-powered trim and the SE hybrid, which are being bid farewell by the enhanced XSE, are the remaining trims.
Japanese engineers and designers created the RAV4. This generation’s production will be shared between the adjacent Cambridge plant and Woodstock, Ontario. Additional RAVs can be backfilled from Japanese manufacturing facilities if demand for the vehicle remains high.
At year’s end, the gasoline-powered RAV4 goes on sale, with the hybrid model following in early 2019. Although the price has not been disclosed, it is not anticipated to rise significantly from the $25,505 beginning price.
Is a heated steering wheel available from Toyota?
The RAV4, a hugely popular crossover from Toyota, has undergone a complete makeover for 2019. The most prominent changes include a beautiful new look, a new, more potent engine, and a plethora of new tech options, including, of course, a heated steering wheel.
Power & Fuel Economy
The new engine is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder unit that cranks out an impressive 203 horsepower (27 hp more than the outgoing model). The fact that the new engine is both more powerful and fuel-efficient than the old one truly impressed us. The 2017 RAV4 easily ranks among the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its segment with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The new powertrain, which incorporates a brand-new, lighter 8-speed automatic gearbox, is far lighter than the previous one, which is the main factor behind these amazing numbers.
Driving Dynamics
The 2019 RAV4 is one of the most well-balanced and adaptable crossovers on the market right now, despite its lack of mind-blowing driving qualities. The RAV4 performs well in terms of acceleration and responsiveness. The new transmission effectively makes up for the engine’s somewhat limited low-end torque. Around town, the RAV4 seems nimble, and passing and merging go relatively smoothly. Additionally, the new RAV4 drives brilliantly on the highway. It tracks nicely and provides good wind resistance.
Ride Quality & Handling
The RAV4 handles with a sense of equilibrium and coordination. When turning, there isn’t much body roll, and mid-corner bumps are well-handled. If you choose the “Limited” or “Adventure” pack, an all-wheel drive system with torque-vectoring provides more traction and security in icy or rainy situations. The RAV4 makes for a comfortable long-distance highway cruising vehicle. The back seats are luxurious and supportive, and the cabin does a good job of blocking out road noise. The ride comfort is also great. The suspension has been configured to offer the best possible balance between control and softness, resulting in a smooth overall ride with excellent moderate impact absorption.
Interior
A well-designed cabin is another characteristic of the new RAV4. The controls are intuitively placed and simple to use. Space, accessibility, and driving position The RAV4 succeeds in every area with flying colors. Furthermore, whether the back seats are folded or not, it has some of the best cargo space in the market. The space behind the back seats can hold 37.5 cubic feet, and when they’re folded down, it can hold a roomy 69.8 cubic feet. The cabin is also strewn with helpful nooks and small-capacity shelves for storing items of different sizes.
Trim Levels
The 2019 RAV4 is offered in five trim levels: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Limited, and Adventure, which are the highest trim levels. Although the “Limited” bundle has the most features, in our opinion, it is not the greatest deal. In our opinion, the mid-range ‘XLE’ model is the one to choose.
The XLE package adds 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, automatic LED headlights, push-button start, heated mirrors, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control4, additional USB ports, and a sunroof in addition to the low-profile roof rails, rear privacy glass, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 that are included as standard equipment on the base trim.
In addition to the Toyota Sense 2.0, you also receive additional driving aids, such as a blind spot monitoring system with rear-cross traffic alert. The top-tier “Limited” package’s improvements are also available for the XLE trim. These include a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, and a heated steering wheel.
Is the steering wheel on the 2018 RAV4 heated?
Six trim levels of the 2018 RAV4 are offered: LE, XLE, SE, Limited, Platinum, and the brand-new Adventure. This year’s addition of the Cold Weather package adds heated and power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a de-icing system for the windshield wipers to cars with cloth upholstery.
What distinguishes the RAV4 LE from the XLE?
Customers have traditionally preferred the Toyota RAV4 as a vehicle. Toyota is a company that many people are familiar with, and the RAV4 is a fantastic balance of strength, adaptability, and usefulness. It feels like a regular SUV because it has two rows of seating, and it outperforms its rivals in many areas.
Compare the 2021 Toyota RAV4 LE vs XLE Trim Levels. What is the Difference?
First of all, there are hybrid and non-hybrid variants of both of these trims. Many of the trims, which will be discussed later in this overview, fit this description.
2.5-liter engines and electric motors are used in the hybrid LE and XLE models. These parts work together to produce 219 horsepower. It makes logical that the non-hybrid LE and XLE have fewer horsepower because they lack the electric motors but still have the 2.5-liter engines. Despite this, these trims still have a respectable amount of power, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.
The hybrid vehicles are far superior to the competition in terms of efficiency. Up to 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway are possible with a hybrid RAV4. The LE, on the other hand, is predicted to get 27 city and 35 highway miles per gallon. The XLE is almost same; it has a 28 mpg official estimated city fuel efficiency.
Both the LE and XLE provide all-wheel drive. Electronic on-demand AWD is standard equipment on hybrid models. The RAV4 isn’t nearly as efficient because it has all-wheel drive, which reduces fuel economy by one to two miles per gallon.
That brings us to the topic at hand: how is the LE trim different from the XLE? First, while the LE lacks an autonomous stop/start feature for its engine, the XLE does. As it only activates when the SUV is stopped for at least a few seconds, such as at a red light, this feature has no impact on driving at all. The XLE boasts five-spoke silver alloy wheels that look a little more sophisticated than the LE’s steel wheels.
There are further external variations as well. The LED headlight bezels on the LE and XLE are black on the LE and chrome on the XLE. The XLE boasts integrated fog lights, heated side mirrors, turn signal indicators, and blind spot monitors, among other features. The door handles on the XLE contain touch sensors that can be used to unlock and lock the doors because it comes with a Smart Key. The XLE has a sunroof as an option, whereas the LE does not.
The XLE distinguishes itself from the LE in a few ways once we go inside the cabin. The XLE trims have embossed seat inserts, however both trims have fabric seats. The LE only has a manually operated climate control system, whereas the XLE has a two-zone automatic climate control system. If desired, the XLE’s front seats and steering wheel can be equipped with heating elements. The XLE features a cargo area cover, sliding extensions for its sun visors, and silver door knobs rather than black ones, among other minor modifications.
Given all the technology utilized nowadays, having more than one USB port can be a great benefit. The XLE contains five USB ports compared to the LE’s single USB port. Both trims support smartphones and have seven-inch touchscreens. SiriusXM and Amazon Alexa are also available. For those who enjoy the latest technology, the XLE may be updated with an eight-inch touchscreen.
Compare the 2021 Toyota RAV4 XLE vs XLE Premium Trims. What is the Difference?
Like the XLE, the XLE Premium features a lot of extra flair and is available in hybrid and non-hybrid models. Some of its characteristics are immediately noticeable. For instance, it has 19-inch chrome alloy wheels and a power sunroof as standard. Its motorized liftgate has an adjustable height feature; the XLE also offers this option.
The XLE Premium’s cabin features some noteworthy enhancements. Instead of having cloth seats, it has seats with SofTex trim, a faux leather. Its shifter is also wrapped in leather, and its steering wheel is leather rather than urethane. Both wireless charging and a smart rearview mirror are options on the XLE Premium. An eight-inch touchscreen can be added to the XLE, but the XLE Premium can also come with 11 JBL speakers and the same touchscreen.
The truth is that all Toyota RAV4 models come well-equipped from a safety perspective. They all have adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing, and pre-collision braking that can stop both oncoming traffic and pedestrians. The XLE Premium is the first trim to include a parking assist feature, while the XLE is the first trim to include blind spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring. Drivers can be warned when they are approaching things too closely, and it can even apply the brakes to prevent a collision.
Compare the 2021 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium vs Adventure Trim Level. What is the Difference?
The Adventure trim comes equipped with all-wheel drive. The Adventure is more suited for folks who will tackle the trails because its all-wheel drive system is a more durable version than what’s seen in the preceding grades. Its system has a feature called Downhill Assist Control that makes descending steep inclines simpler.
When discussing the RAV4, towing capability should be brought up because some customers may have large ambitions for their SUVs. The lesser models’ standard towing capability is 1,500 pounds, while the hybrid powertrains boost that to 1,750 pounds. There are certain consumers who will take note of the towing capability increase to 3,500 pounds at the Adventure level.
The Adventure has 19-inch split five-spoke wheels, the same size as those on the XLE Premium. The Adventure’s wheels, bumpers, and badging all have black accents, and there is an option for a striking two-tone appearance. But unlike the XLE Premium, the Adventure lacks a sunroof.
The Adventure features a digital speedometer, whilst the XLE Premium has an analog one, which will be noticeable to the driver. Although the seats in the Adventure have orange accents, both grades include SofTex seats. Orange stitching can be seen on the doors and dashboard, and it is present throughout the entire cabin. Front seats with heating are an option in the XLE Premium, while front seats with heating and ventilation are an option in the Adventure.
These two levels’ infotainment systems are essentially identical. The Adventure’s eight-inch touchscreen differs from the XLE Premium’s seven-inch display in size.
Compare the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Adventure vs TRD Off-Road. What is the Difference?
These trims share a lot because they were created for those with adventurous souls. The TRD Off-Road is even more energetic than the Adventure looks to be.
To make it even more suited for difficult terrain, it incorporates TRD-tuned suspension parts. It is the only trim with a front skid plate that is embossed with the trim name in addition to having TRD badging on its outside. The LED fog lights on the TRD variant have black trim surrounding them, and the side mirrors are also distinctive. The TRD Off-Road may be ordered with the two-tone color scheme and includes black roof rails that are slightly elevated, just like the Adventure.
The Adventure’s accent color is orange, whilst the TRD Off-are Road’s red. The seats, cup holders, console, and doors all have crimson stitching. While the Adventure does not have a sunroof as standard, the TRD Off-Road does.
The Adventure and TRD Off-Road are on the same technological footing. However, it should be noted that navigation can be added to the Adventure.
Compare the 2021 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road vs XSE Hybrid Trims. What is the Difference?
Toyota built the RAV4 in the XSE Hybrid level, but not in the XSE non-hybrid trim, which is an unusual decision. The XSE Hybrid utilizes a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, just like the previous hybrids. Having a car that can recharge its battery on its own without being connected into an outlet can be practical.
The XSE Hybrid sports a sport-tuned suspension and blue shock absorbers, giving it a more sporty feel than some of the other trims. It boasts a stylish dark gray front grille as well as a two-tone exterior color scheme as standard. Although the XSE Hybrid comes with a moonroof as standard equipment, a panoramic glass roof is also an option. This can be compared to an extra-large sunroof with a portion that slides back or tilts to open.
Toyota chose the color blue for the embellishments on the XSE Hybrid. The seats and doors have blue stitching, and the general illumination is blue. The front seats are heated for the first time in the XSE Hybrid variant. It’s also the first trim that has a computerized rearview mirror as standard equipment.
A bird’s eye view camera is one feature that is optional in the TRD Off-Road but not in the XSE Hybrid. Perhaps this is so because TRD Off-Road drivers are more prone to encounter challenging circumstances.