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There’s a big reason why many models of Toyota are so popular. In a word, “Reliability.”

However, as it turns out, proven reliability alone is not enough to remain popular with Toyota shoppers.

Related article: Toyota Rav4 Engine Warning for Used Car Shoppers

There’s More to a Popularity Contest Than Reliability

In a recent Consumer Reports newsletter titled “Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead” it turns out that popularity can and does change---even with one of the most popular Toyota models sold: the Toyota RAV4!

According to CR analysts, “There's no need to settle for what's popular when you can buy a smart, reliable SUV that performs well in CR's tests.”

More to the point, based on customer surveys and rigorous road testing, what once was a highly praised and recommended Toyota model has now dropped in their estimation based on what they have observed and what customers expect in the latest RAV4 model.

“The original Toyota RAV4 pioneered the small, car-based SUV segment in the mid-1990s, and it has continued to set a high standard for the class with each subsequent generation—until now. Today, the RAV4 is no longer among the best in class in our road tests…the recent move to a lower, wider appearance has compromised interior space. Plus, its bland cabin, droning engine noise, and ride comfort that trails the competition have resulted in below-average owner satisfaction in our Annual Auto Surveys,” stated CR analysts online and in their latest newsletter, respectively.

The New RAV4

Accompanying the newsletter “Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead” a new video review of the 2024 RAV4 offers these pros and cons to the new model:

Pros

• 27 mpg in an AWD model with good acceleration reaching 0-60 in 8.3 seconds making it among the quickest in its class of vehicles. (The Hybrid version gets 37 mpg without unpleasant engine noise and is quicker---reaching 60 mph in 7.8 seconds.)
• The multi-trans terrain system for varying road conditions in the AWD model is a nice addition and covers aside from the usual Normal, Eco and Sport modes; now offers, "Snow," "Rock and Dirt," "Mud and Sand," driving modes.
• The interior fits both short and tall drivers with good overall visibility over the hood.
• Rear seats fold flat to increase cargo space.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian and AEB Highway come standard.
• Adaptive cruise control and lane keeping features work well on highway

Cons

• Noisy acceleration with a constant irritating engine drone-like noise---a major downside to its redesign.
• The multi-trans terrain system although nice is “too taut,” making for a stiff ride.
• Higher ground clearance with a wider and shorter body makes the RAV4 difficult to get into and significantly decreases the interior space---especially headroom in the rear passenger seating.
• Thick rear pillars blocks driver viewing.
• Bland, plasticky interior trim.
• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW) are optional.
• Lane keeping feature requires constant fighting of the steering wheel on country roads.

Should You Buy One?

Consumer Reports advises shoppers that if a small SUV RAV4 is what they still prefer, then they should go with the XLE model with its extra features at the price they paid of $32,109.

However, according to their “Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead” newsletter there are two better choices.

1. Subaru Forester 2024

Price Range:  $27,095 - $37,395

CR MPG:  Overall 28 / City 20 / Hwy 38 mpg

#1 of 27 Compact SUVs

Predicted reliability: 82/100 (compared to the RAV4 73/100)

Predicted owner satisfaction: 4/5 (compared to the RAV4 2/5)

2. Mitsubishi Outlander 2024

Price Range:  $28,395 - $50,345

CR MPG:  Overall 25 / City 17 / Hwy 34 mpg

#10 of 27 Compact SUVs

Predicted reliability: 87/100 (compared to the RAV4 73/100)

Predicted owner satisfaction: 3/5 (compared to the RAV4 2/5)

Final Thoughts

While the CR review was unexpected in light of early, more positive reviews online by dealers and owners, the value is that it provides shoppers with a guarantee of a non-biased and informative review.

However, the real test is with the personal driving test, which should be done because like cars, we are…well…all different in many respects and the 2024 RAV4 just might be good fit for you after all.

For a more detailed breakdown of recommended and not-recommended vehicles for 2024, be sure to visit the Consumer Reports website. Note that while access to some information requires a CR membership, the potential savings make it negligible in comparison when looking for the latest information to aid your car buying research.

For additional articles related to recent new and used car recommendations, here are three for your consideration:

• 10 Most Reliable 2024 Car Models and What They Will Cost You
• Consumer Reports Best Used SUVs, Sedans, Small Cars, and Trucks Guide for Shoppers
• Consumer Reports Recommends These 10 Cheap Cars

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on  “Zen and the Art of DIY Car Repair” website, the Zen Mechanic blog and on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites  and Facebook for daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.

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