Why 2019 Toyota RAV4 is So Popular These Days

There is a time to pat oneself on the back for a job well done. The RAV4 is currently in the midst of incredibly strong sales and is setting records nearly every month. It probably deserves its high praise right about now.

And there is also a time to sit back and reflect on why this phenomenon is occurring. Why is the 2019 Toyota RAV4 so darn popular with consumers? I took pen to paper and wrote down some ideas I have on what factors are driving these record sales.

2019 RAV4 has a new body style

Certainly one of the reasons SUV shoppers are checking out the Toyota RAV4 is due to its complete redesign for the 2019 model year. This latest entry was introduced to the public last fall with a taller, sportier, more rugged stance that appeals to both men and women of all ages.

This new body style comes a new powertrain as well. Toyota paired a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. torque with a direct shift 8-speed automatic transmission for the 2019 model.

New body style plus more power equals better sales, right?

Here is a little secret, though. The 2019 RAV4 is currently extremely popular, but it was already this way before the redesign. In fact, the Toyota RAV4 was the best-selling “non-full-size truck” in the entire country for 2018. Its widespread mass appeal has been building for years already.

There is a tremendous variety of 2019 RAV4 models

One surprising factor for 2019 RAV4’s immense popularity is the sheer variety of models available to the public. I recently spoke with Mia Phillips, National Manager of Crossover Utility Vehicles, and she could not be happier with RAV4 sales results. “Our team is super excited with the success of the RAV4. There is a RAV4 for everyone.”

I have thought about Mia’s comments on and off since our discussion. Such a simple statement really. “There is a RAV4 for everyone.” I realized she is absolutely right and she nailed it with her analysis.

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is offered in so many different grade (or trim) levels that it can appeal to basically every type of driver in the market for a small SUV. There really IS something for everyone.

This something-for-everyone philosophy starts with the LE entry level, which comes with more than enough safety and technology features for even the most budget-conscious shoppers. It extends all the way to the Limited, with luxury features such as dynamic navigation, heated Softex seats, and intelligent clearance sonar.

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The 2019 RAV4 Adventure offers a rugged, “adventurous” appearance and the capability for towing 3,500 pounds, making it a terrific utility vehicle for both on-road and off the beaten path.

And as a teaser, wait until you hear more about the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road. Coming this fall.

Wait, did I even mention the RAV4 Hybrids yet?

2019 RAV4 Hybrids are a national phenomenon

This might be an obvious one, but 2019 RAV4 Hybrid buzz is exploding all across the country and ensuing sales are skyrocketing. In fact, RAV4 Hybrid sales showed a whopping 147% increase in July versus the previous year. This was a best-ever July for RAV4 Hybrid.

People considering a small SUV will be tempted to lean toward the RAV4 Hybrid for many reasons.

If you are looking for power in your vehicle, the RAV4 Hybrid has 219 combined hybrid horsepower as compared to 203 horsepower with the gasoline version.

Many people are sensitive to gasoline prices these days, so fuel efficiency is of the utmost importance. The 2019 RAV4 Hybrid provides families with an amazing 40mpg combined, which is 41mpg in the city and 38 on the highway. Savings at the gas pump and less need for fill-ups equates to happier RAV4 owners. Double bonus.

Speaking of budget, most people should find the RAV4 Hybrid to be a solid value. The cost of a RAV4 Hybrid (all RAV4 Hybrids are all-wheel drive) is most often just under $1000 more than its equivalent gasoline AWD companion RAV4. Bottom line is that the RAV4 Hybrid is an excellent value and should be considered strongly.

What do you think of the 2019 RAV4? Have you purchased one yet and how is it going so far? Do you have plans to check it out in the coming year?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story where I am discussing the pros and cons for the 2020 Toyota Tundra. Let me know there in the comments what you think about it, please.

Bookmark Jeff Teague's Toyota News and Reviews at Torque News Toyota. You can reach Jeff on Facebook and Instagram. Twitter @toyotajeff1 and tweet him tips for new stories. Jeff also shares Toyota news videos on his Youtube Channel at ToyotaJeff1.