Is the Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid Shortage Improving?

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Submitted by Jeff Teague on September 13, 2023 - 1:51PM

Positive signs the 2023 Toyota RAV4 inventory shortage might be getting better.

Imagine you have a strong interest in buying a specific vehicle.

You have done your research. It checks all the boxes. You know what trim level and even what colors you would be happy with.

And then you go to visit your local dealership. Not many cars on the lot. And in some cases, absolutely no vehicles at all are available to buy.

This is one of the most challenging things these days about searching for new cars – there is so little inventory ready right at the dealership to drive home that day.

It becomes a frustrating process for both consumers and for dealership personnel. And often leads to extremely long waiting times.

2023 Toyota RAV4

One of my favorite vehicles these days is Toyota RAV4 (and RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime). It is efficient and versatile, gets solid gas mileage, and is super reliable.

But when you are the best-selling SUV in the country, and when also in the middle of a worldwide vehicle shortage, it can become extra tricky to find your ideal one.

I have heard consistent stories of buyers all over the United States (and the world, for that matter) having to wait weeks and months for their Toyota RAV4 (especially Toyota RAV4 Hybrid).

There just are not many RAV4s to be found.

But could there be hope on the horizon?

I’ll Take RAV4 Hybrid Inventory for $400 Please

I was just walking around one specific dealership, Fred Anderson Toyota in Raleigh (inventory is at fredandersontoyota.com), and got a positive sign that we have been hoping for.

I counted about 15 total 2023 RAV4 and 2023 RAV4 Hybrid vehicles sitting on their lot waiting for new homes.

And these are not just the ones that have been pre-sold to other customers. Literally, someone could come in and drive all of these home the same day.

There were a handful of 2023 Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid (including 2 Hybrid LE, 3 Hybrid XSE, and several XLE Premium) ready to roll. Shocking really, considering the shortage these past few years.

VIDEO: Learn about RAV4 Hybrid SE

Some people have been waiting over a year for a RAV4 Hybrid XSE, and one individual dealership has three just sitting there available for purchase. Could things be improving nationwide?

Now, I totally understand this is a tiny sample size of just one Toyota dealership. But could this mean many other dealers all over the country are also getting ready to ramp up their supplies for anxious and excited customers?

Time for Your Toyota RAV4 Comments

We can only hope this is a rapidly improving situation. I know many buyers who have their fingers crossed that this is a positive sign of good things to come.

This is definitely a story worth monitoring. Let me know if you have been searching for a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, or a gasoline only RAV4. How is your search going?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story.

READ MORE:

- Fans offer RAV4 redesign suggestions

- Surprise new Toyota that could beat RAV4 in sales

Jeff Teague - I have been involved in the auto industry for just about 20 years. I enjoy learning and sharing the most up-to-date news and information.

My other talent is creating informative and entertaining automotive videos. I’ve been building and growing my Toyota YouTube channel “ToyotaJeff Reviews” for the last 8 years. I take pride in delivering informative automotive news, how-to information, and reviews.

My background serves me well with my writing. I hope you enjoy the news I bring you. Follow me on YouTube at “ToyotaJeff Reviews” and “AutoJeff Reviews”, Instagram at “ToyotaJeff Reviews” and “AutoJeff Reviews”, and TikTok at “ToyotaJeff Reviews” and “AutoJeff Reviews”.

Submitted by Alan Sheinker (not verified) on September 14, 2023 - 3:36PM

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I located in a suburb of KC. I ordered a RAV4 Prime 18 months ago. Nothing yet and no time table to get one.

Submitted by BrianFlorida (not verified) on September 17, 2023 - 2:02AM

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3 days ago i placed an order for a rav4 le in black. I went to two dealerships and they didnt have the black color avaliable. The first told me 3-6 months. The second told me 27 days. Hopefully it arrives in less than the 27 day period so i can have my new vehicle!

Submitted by Chris J. (not verified) on September 17, 2023 - 12:20PM

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I recently have had the great experience of having to deal with the Toyota and the inability to get the MSRP. purchase as for the vehicles are not available but with forced South East Division options ■{$2000 of not needed plastic on hood or cell phone cords ETC.} not neeand with a buyer's premium of $3000 to $4000 on top. This is ridiculous, that's why you seeing some people ,buy kia and Hyundai Who used to buy Toyota . Like Ford whom have stated in the last qarter stock meeting... we are doing this on purpose , produce less and demand more $. I hope it bites them all in the tale in the end !!!

Submitted by Ron (not verified) on September 18, 2023 - 10:55AM

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I have been trying to buy a RAV 4 Prime for over a year also. I've had two offers in the last two months. Ridiculous dealer mark up. Mazda might be the answer. CX 70 PHEV could stir some competition.