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Buyer’s Guide for the Toyota RAV4 (New Zealand Edition)

Updated 8 September 2022

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular midsize crossovers available in the New Zealand market. With its stylish design, high reliability ratings and strong resale value, this family-friendly vehicle continues to be a top seller in New Zealand. In this guide, we will take a look at the 2023 RAV4 as well as previous models. We cover:
Know This First:
  • ​For the 2023 model year, the RAV4 is receiving a mid-cycle update. That means that you will see a number of changes both inside and out.
  • The most significant change is an update to the Toyota Safety Sense System. The 2023 model year will see a 2.5 generation update that includes intersection support and emergency steering assist.
  • The 2023 model will also see the addition of more features to the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. That includes more music, phone, text, navigation, and vehicle information.
  • More details: Toyota RAV4 Specs

RAV4 - Pros and Cons

​There are a number of reasons why the Toyota RAV4 is so popular. Here’s a look at the top reasons you should put this popular SUV at the top of your shopping list.

Pros:

1. Leading reliability

​The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most reliable SUVs in its class. In fact, Toyota is consistently ranked in the top three when it comes to overall brand quality. That also includes the fact that repairing a Toyota RAV4 is more affordable than other vehicles in its class. If you are looking for a vehicle that will perform well after its manufacturer's warranty expires, then the Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice. 

2. Excellent value

​Much like other Toyota vehicles, you get a lot for your money. The Toyota RAV4 is consistently one of the best values on the market today. If you have a limited budget, then you will certainly want to consider a RAV4.

3. Easy to live with and maintain

​The Toyota RAV4 is designed to be a family-friendly vehicle. That means that it is easy to maintain and you have lots of room for both passengers and cargo. Additionally, it does not cost much to maintain the vehicle when it comes to routine maintenance such as brake pad and oil changes.
Cons:
​While the Toyota RAV4 is one of the most sought-after SUVs in its class, there are some potential downsides to consider. Here are some reasons why the Toyota RAV4 may not be for you:

1. Lack of power

​The Toyota RAV4 is certainly not a performance vehicle. If you are looking to have some fun on the road, then you will want to consider another SUV. 

2. Uninspired styling

​The exterior of the Toyota RAV4 pretty much screams, “status quo.” You won’t find expressive design lines nor head-turning curves. This is an SUV that pretty much blends in with the other family SUVs in a supermarket car park. 

3. Not designed for serious off-road driving

​While the 2023 Toyota RAV4 can handle the occasional off-road trail, you don’t want to take this family-friendly vehicle over large rocks or steep terrain. While this SUV is perfectly competent for road driving, it is not intended as an off-road machine. 

Standard RAV4 Features

1. Powertrain

​The 2023 Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol-powered engine which provides up to 127kW at 6,600 RPM. Fuel economy is rated at 4.8 liters per 100km. While this standard powertrain is perfectly suited for everyday family hauling, it is not really intended for intense performance driving. That being said, there is a more powerful engine available on the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine that provides up to 152 kw at 6,600. This more powerful engine has a fuel economy rating of 7.9-litres per 100km.
 
If you are looking for hybrid power, then you are in luck. The Toyota RAV4 also offers a hybrid petrol-electric powertrain across most of its trim levels. This hybrid engine is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with an electric engine and a total output of 163Kw at 5,700 rpm. Fuel economy on the hybrid powertrain is rated at 5.3-litres per 100km.

2. Tech features

​While the Toyota RAV4 is known for its affordable price, you won’t be short on essential tech features. Standard on the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Bluetooth connectivity and a Mobile Assistant function that allows you to control SIri Eyes Free and Google Assistant through a connected Android or iPhone device. Other standard tech features include 4 USB charge ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an 8-inch colour display screen. Finally, the RAV4 comes standard with the SUNA traffic channel which provides real-time traffic information.
 
On higher trim levels, you will find more advanced tech features such as a 9-speaker JBL premium audio system and a Voice Recognition System.

3. Comfort and Convenience Features

​The 2023 Toyota RAV4 also offers lots of popular comfort and convenience features. For instance, you can get the RAV4 with 10-way power adjustments for the driver as well as memory, heated and ventilated seating. Also available is dual-zone automatic climate control and a digital rearview mirror. Also, you can equip the RAV4 with leather-appointed seating as well as a leather steering wheel and shift knob. 

4. Trim levels

For the 2023 model year, the Toyota Rav4 is available in the following trim levels:
  • GX
  • GXL FWD
  • GXL AWD
  • XSE
  • GX Hybrid
  • GXL Hybrid
  • RAV4 Limited
  • RAV4 Adventure
  • XSE Hybrid
  • Limited Hybrid
  • Aventure Hybrid
  • Aventure Hybrid with two-tone paint 

5. Safety Features

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is a leading SUV when it comes to standard features. All models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense. This is a suite of advanced safety features that can help prevent accidents on the road. Here’s a look at what is included with Toyota Safety Sense: 
  • Lane departure alert - This feature will give you an audible and visual alert if the vehicle veers out of its lane.
  • Automatic high beam - The RAV4 can automatically turn on the high beams when there is a lack of exterior light.
  • Dynamic radar cruise control - These features automatically maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
  • Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian protection - With this feature, the RAV4 will automatically apply the brakes if there is a vehicle or a pedestrian directly ahead. 

More details: Rightcar.govt.nz

6. Reliability Ratings

​The Toyota RAV4 has received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal.com. Overall, the Toyota RAV4 ranks 3rd out of 26 vehicles in its category. Also, the Toyota RAV4 has a lower-than-average repair cost. 

7. New Zealand Awards

​The Toyota RAV4 has been awarded the AA Driver New Zealand car of the year in 2021 for best Medium SUV. Additionally, the Toyota RAV4 has also received the AA Driver New Zealand car of the year award in the Hybrid category. 

8. Worldwide Awards

​The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most awarded vehicles in its class. That includes a Best Buy Award from Kelly Blue Book and the Best Value Award from Kelly Blue Book.

Resale Value of Previous Models

​Toyota vehicles are known for retaining their value. Therefore, you may be wondering what the resale value of a 2023 Toyota RAV4 may be in the future. To assist you, here is a look at the current values of Toyota RAV4 vehicles from previous model years.
 
NOTE: The following data was compiled from average values found on AutoTrader.co.nz. Also note that the exact retail price of a vehicle will vary according to a number of factors including mileage, condition, accident history, number of owners, and the trim level. 
  • 2021 - A 2021 Toyota RAV4 GX model with 11,000 km is being offered for around $50,000.
  • 2020 - ​A 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model with 2,711 km is being offered for around $57,000.
  • 2019 - A 2019 Toyota RAV4 GX model with 27,500 km is being offered for around $37,000.​
  • 2018 - A 2018 Toyota RAV4 GXL model with a larger 2.5-litre engine and 60,600 km is being offered for around $32,000.
  • 2017 - ​A 2017 Toyota RAV4 GX model with 123,000 km is being offered for around $23,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended trim level?

​The GXL AWD drive model provides you with many popular features along with all-wheel-drive which is ideal for year-round driving conditions. 

Who is the Toyota RAV4 ideal for?

​The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is an ideal choice for small families or for people who want a fuel-efficient vehicle and need more space than what is available on a small or a mid-size saloon. 

What is the average price of the Toyota RAV4 in New Zealand?

​The 2023 Toyota RAV4 starts at $39,240 for the entry-level GX model. A well-equipped model will cost around $46,000. 

Are 2023 Toyota RAV4 models hard to find in New Zealand?

​Currently, the chip shortage may make it a little difficult to find the 2023 Toyota RAV4 in your desired trim level. However, if you are willing to wait several weeks, you may be able to have your model delivered from the factory.
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