Toyota RAV4 IV 2.5 (176 Hp) ECT-i


Overall Rating

8.5 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.7 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Toyota RAV4:

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It is known for starting the wave of compact crossovers. The RAV4 is the best-selling sport utility vehicle of all time, having sold over 10 million units by February 2020. In February 2025, the RAV4 replaced the Ford F-150 as the top selling car in the United States, after nearly four decades of the F-150's reign.
It made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994, and in North America in 1995, being launched in January 1996. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the maneuverability of a mid-size car. The vehicle's name is an abbreviation of "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", or "Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", although not all models come equipped with the four-wheel drive system....(Read more on Wikipedia)

IV Overview:

Toyota RAV4 (IV). With 233 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.8 l/100km). With a weight of 1558 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2013
Adult Occupant 89%
Stars 5
Expert Note:
The Toyota RAV4 IV achieved a commendable 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2013, demonstrating strong performance in adult occupant protection and overall safety features for its class.

2.5 (176 Hp) ECT-i Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The most powerful petrol option, delivering strong acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities for a compact SUV.

Fuel Economy

While offering robust performance, fuel economy is expected to be lower than the diesel options, typical for a larger petrol engine.

Best Use Case: Drivers prioritizing strong performance and responsive acceleration, particularly in markets where larger petrol engines are common.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent reliability and durability reputation
  • • Spacious and practical interior with good cargo capacity
  • • Comfortable ride quality, especially on longer journeys
  • • Good range of efficient diesel and capable petrol engines
  • • Strong safety ratings (5-star Euro NCAP)
  • • Available AWD for improved traction in varied conditions

Cons:

  • • Some petrol engines can feel underpowered or less refined than rivals
  • • CVT transmission can be less engaging for some drivers
  • • Interior design, while functional, can feel a bit dated compared to some competitors
  • • Limited off-road capability despite AWD options
  • • Road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds in some trims

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(III (XA30, facelift 2008) Long: 2008 - 2012).

General:
Brand:Toyota
Model:RAV4
Generation:IV
Modification (Engine):2.5 (176 Hp) ECT-i
Start of production:2012
End of production:2015
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:176 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:70.6 Hp/l [51mm less]
Torque:233 Nm @ 4100 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:2AR-FE More details about the engine 2AR-FE
Engine displacement:2494
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:4.4 l
Coolant:6.8 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:90 mm mm
Piston Stroke:98 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.4:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.6 l/100 km
Emission standard:ULEV-II
Weight-to-power ratio:8.9 kg/Hp, 113 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.7 kg/Nm, 149.6 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1558
Max. weight:2034
Max load:476
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2078 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:1087 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):680 kg
Fuel tank capacity:60 l
Size:
Length:4569 mm mm [51mm less]
Width:1844 mm mm [28mm more]
Height:1661 mm mm [23mm less]
Wheelbase:2659 mm mm [1mm less]
Front track:1570 mm
Rear (Back) track:1570 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):160 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.6 m [above average]
Approach angle:29°
Departure angle:22°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeECT-i
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size225/65 R17
Wheel rims size7J x 17
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionDouble wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Toyota RAV4!