2019 Toyota RAV4 Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus: What It Means for You

What is the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus?

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is a trusted nonprofit organization that rigorously evaluates vehicle safety. Its highest honor, the Top Safety Pick Plus, is awarded only to vehicles that perform exceptionally in a series of stringent crash tests and evaluations, including front crash prevention and headlight performance.

2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron

$39651

electric

14310 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD

$24950

Gas

37670 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

BMW 6 Series 640i Coupe RWD

$50000

Petrol

63325 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

2019 Toyota RAV4 Crash Test Performance

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 received Good ratings—the highest possible—across all six crashworthiness tests conducted by the IIHS:

• Driver-side small overlap front
• Passenger-side small overlap front
• Moderate overlap front
• Side impact
• Roof strength
• Head restraints and seats

This consistent high performance demonstrates that the RAV4 is structurally sound and provides excellent occupant protection in a variety of collision scenarios.

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Front Crash Prevention System

The 2019 RAV4 comes standard with Toyota's advanced Safety Sense system, featuring a comprehensive front crash prevention system. The IIHS rates this system as Superior, meaning it effectively reduces the likelihood or severity of frontal collisions through automated emergency braking and forward collision warnings.

2011 BMW 1 Series 128i

$6176

Gas

158183 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

2011 BMW 1 Series 128i

$6176

Gas

158183 mi

Good Deal  

5 (5)

2024 Bentley Bentayga

$270257

Gas

36 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

Headlight Ratings: A Critical Factor

While the RAV4 performed exceptionally in most areas, its headlight options were a differentiating factor. Only the Hybrid Limited trim offers adaptive LED headlights that received a Good rating from the IIHS. Other available headlight configurations on lower trims received Marginal or Poor ratings, which could affect the model's overall safety designation.

--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Why Headlights Matter

Headlight performance plays a significant role in real-world driving safety, particularly in low-light or inclement conditions. Poor visibility can reduce a driver's reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents. The IIHS evaluates headlights for visibility, glare, and illumination consistency to determine their ratings.

2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia

$27697

Gas

28912 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2020 Acura ILX

$22400

Gas

31702 mi

Good Deal  

5 (5)

2024 Genesis G70

$54454

Gas

1568 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

How the RAV4 Compares to Competitors

The compact SUV segment is competitive, with several models achieving high safety scores. Here’s how the RAV4 stacks up:

• Subaru Forester: Top Safety Pick Plus with standard crash prevention and qualifying headlights.
• Mazda CX-5: Top Safety Pick Plus; top-rated LED headlights on select trims.
• Honda CR-V: Top Safety Pick with optional front crash prevention and lower-rated headlights.
• Hyundai Tucson: Also a Top Safety Pick Plus, but only with specific headlights and optional crash prevention.

Among these, the RAV4 remains a standout, especially for buyers seeking a balanced mix of performance, value, and safety.

--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Recommendations for Buyers

If safety is your top priority, it's crucial to understand how trim levels and available features impact ratings. When purchasing a 2019 RAV4, opt for trims like the Hybrid Limited to ensure you get the top-rated headlights. This choice not only enhances nighttime visibility but secures the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating.

2020 Lincoln Aviator

$40843

Gas

25714 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

2024 Acura MDX Type S

$64030

Gas

45002 mi

Very Good Deal  

4 (5)

2025 Cadillac CT4

$48135

Gas

0 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

Why the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is a Smart Choice

The RAV4 continues to be a leader in its class, not just for safety but also for reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value. With Toyota’s commitment to standardizing advanced safety tech and a strong structural build, the RAV4 provides peace of mind for families, commuters, and adventurers alike.

--THIRD CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Final Verdict: RAV4’s Safety Is No Accident

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 demonstrates that safety doesn’t have to be optional. By delivering high marks in crash protection and driver-assist technologies, especially when equipped with the right headlight package, it secures its place among the safest SUVs in the market.