Skip advert
Advertisement

Toyota RAV4 SR

Nip and tuck brings 4x4 bang up to date

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Toyota RAV4
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The tweaks to the design and step up in equipment have breathed new life into the ageing RAV4. But with newer and more distinctive competitors like the MINI Countryman on the horizon, the compact SUV class is set to become more congested than ever. And as Toyota can no longer really sell on its bulletproof reliability record, it’s difficult to see what the new car offers that rivals don’t.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The elder statesman of the compact SUV segment has received some nip and tuck! The revised RAV4 features Toyota’s latest family face, with the same wide grille as the Avensis and Verso, as well as fresh headlights, bonnet, bumper and front wing.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Toyota RAV4

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"69264","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]] 

As a result, the car looks muscular and aggressive, and more modern. To complement the styling, Toyota has added 17-inch alloys and two new colours to the options list: our car’s Deep Titanium metallic and White Pearl pearlescent.

On the inside, lower-spec XT-R models now get leather and Alcantara upholstery and heated front seats as standard, while flagship SRs have sat-nav and 18-inch alloys. The cabin feels solid and is logically laid out, even if it doesn’t carry over the exterior’s visual appeal.

The driving position is as commanding as SUV fans demand, and with the torquey diesel delivering power to all four wheels, the car feels sure-footed and nimble on the road. If only the light steering inspired more confidence in corners.

The styling update has definitely upped the RAV4’s game, while the extra kit only adds to the appeal.

Rival: Nissan Qashqai
With its unique styling, the Nissan crossover appeals to SUV and family hatchback fans alike. Add a very practical, high-quality interior, and it’s no surprise that the Qashqai has proved such a big UK hit.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £15,975
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £4,685 off RRP*Used from £16,811
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,995
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,050 off RRP*Used from £13,162
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
New MG Cyberster Black is a dark sign of things to come for the brand
Cyberster Black - front 3/4

New MG Cyberster Black is a dark sign of things to come for the brand

MG boss thinks special editions like this might be the ticket to keeping up demand for the electric sports car
News
10 Jul 2025
New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons
Mazda CX-5 - front

New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons

The Mazda CX-5 has been revolutionised to take on the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson
News
10 Jul 2025