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2019 Toyota RAV4 Review Video, MotorVero Test Drive & Features Walkthrough

2019 Toyota RAV4 Redesign: A Complete Breakdown of the Game-Changing SUV | MotorVero

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Redesign: A Bold New Chapter in Compact SUV Excellence

2019 Toyota RAV4

The automotive world witnessed a significant evolution when Toyota unveiled the completely redesigned 2019 RAV4, setting new benchmarks in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. This fifth-generation model represented more than just a refresh—it was a complete reimagining of Toyota's best-selling vehicle, bringing dramatic styling changes, advanced technology, and improved performance to challenge rivals like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Ford Escape.

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Key Takeaways: 2019 Toyota RAV4 Redesign

  • Radical exterior transformation with bolder, more rugged styling cues
  • All-new platform offering improved handling and ride comfort
  • Enhanced interior design with upgraded materials and technology
  • New available hybrid powertrain with impressive fuel efficiency
  • Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 across all trim levels

A Revolutionary Exterior Design

The 2019 RAV4 broke away from its predecessor's conservative styling with a dramatic transformation that drew inspiration from Toyota's FT-AC concept vehicle. The new design language featured:

  • Angular body lines creating a more muscular, aggressive profile
  • Wider stance with prominent wheel arches for improved road presence
  • Geometric grille design that became a signature element of Toyota's SUV lineup
  • Available two-tone color options for certain trims, adding customization possibilities

This bold approach positioned the RAV4 as a more adventurous alternative in its class, appealing to buyers seeking both urban sophistication and off-road capability.



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Interior Upgrades and Technology

 Toyota RAV4 features

Toyota completely rethought the RAV4's cabin for 2019, implementing numerous improvements that addressed previous criticisms while introducing cutting-edge technology:

Cabin Design and Comfort

  • Horizontal dashboard layout creating a more spacious feel
  • Higher quality materials throughout the cabin
  • Improved ergonomics with better control placement
  • Available leather-trimmed seats with heating/ventilation options

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2019 RAV4 introduced Toyota's latest Entune 3.0 system with:

  • Standard 7-inch touchscreen (8-inch available)
  • Apple CarPlay integration (finally added after years of consumer demand)
  • Amazon Alexa compatibility for voice-controlled smart home features
  • Available navigation with real-time traffic updates

While Android Auto remained conspicuously absent at launch, Toyota later added this feature via software update in response to market demand.

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Performance and Powertrain Options

The 2019 redesign brought significant mechanical improvements that transformed the RAV4's driving dynamics:

Gasoline Engine

  • 2.5L Dynamic Force four-cylinder producing 203 hp (up from 176 hp)
  • 8-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous 6-speed
  • Available Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD for improved traction

Hybrid Model

RAV4 hybrid review

The RAV4 Hybrid became more compelling than ever with:

  • Combined 219 horsepower from its hybrid system
  • EPA-estimated 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway in hybrid models
  • Standard electronic on-demand AWD in hybrid variants

These improvements positioned the RAV4 as one of the most fuel-efficient non-plug-in vehicles in its class.

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Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Toyota made its comprehensive Safety Sense 2.0 suite standard across all 2019 RAV4 trims, including:

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (now full-speed range)
  • Automatic High Beams
  • Lane Tracing Assist (new for 2019)
  • Road Sign Assist (new for 2019)

Available safety upgrades included Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and a 360-degree camera system for higher trims.

Trim Level Breakdown

The 2019 RAV4 offered five distinct trim levels to suit various buyer needs:

LE

The base model came well-equipped with:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • LED headlights and taillights
  • Automatic climate control
  • All Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 features

XLE

Added premium touches like:

  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Power-adjustable driver's seat
  • Smart Key System with push-button start

XLE Premium

Brought additional comfort features:

Adventure

Offered rugged styling cues and capability:

  • Unique front fascia with silver skid plate
  • 18-inch matte-black wheels
  • Multi-Terrain Select system

Limited

The luxury-oriented top trim featured:

  • 19-inch chrome wheels
  • Perforated leather-trimmed seats
  • Adaptive front lighting system

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

The redesigned RAV4 faced stiff competition in the compact SUV segment. Here's how it compared to key rivals:

Feature 2019 Toyota RAV4 Honda CR-V Mazda CX-5 Ford Escape
Base Engine HP 203 190 187 168
Hybrid MPG (city/hwy) 41/38 40/35 N/A 34/30 (Energi plug-in)
Cargo Space (cu. ft.) 37.6-69.8 39.2-75.8 30.9-59.6 34.3-68.0
Standard AWD Availability Available Available Available Available
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto CarPlay only (at launch) Both Both Both

While the CR-V offered more cargo space and the CX-5 delivered superior interior refinement, the RAV4's combination of bold styling, strong standard safety features, and excellent hybrid efficiency made it stand out in the segment.

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Ownership Experience and Reliability

The 2019 RAV4 built upon Toyota's reputation for reliability with several owner-friendly features:

  • 24-hour roadside assistance included for 2 years
  • 2-year/25,000-mile complimentary maintenance
  • 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
  • 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
  • 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid component warranty

Early reliability data suggested the 2019 model maintained Toyota's strong dependability reputation, though some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional wind noise at highway speeds.

Why the 2019 Redesign Mattered

The fifth-generation RAV4 represented a pivotal moment for Toyota's compact SUV by:

  • Addressing previous criticisms about bland styling and interior quality
  • Embracing bolder design language that influenced future Toyota SUVs
  • Making hybrid technology more accessible and desirable
  • Setting new safety standards with comprehensive standard features

This redesign successfully maintained the RAV4's position as one of America's best-selling vehicles while attracting new buyers with its more adventurous character.

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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2019 RAV4?

The redesigned 2019 Toyota RAV4 excelled for buyers who prioritized:

  • Reliability and resale value from a trusted brand
  • Fuel efficiency, especially in hybrid models
  • Standard safety technology across all trims
  • Adventurous styling that stood out from competitors

While it might not have been the absolute best in every category, the 2019 RAV4's well-rounded package, dramatic redesign, and strong value proposition made it one of the most compelling choices in the compact SUV segment.

Pro Tip for Shoppers

When considering a used 2019 RAV4, pay particular attention to:

  • Service records for hybrid models (if applicable)
  • Functionality of all safety systems during test drives
  • Software update status for the infotainment system
  • Wear on Adventure trim's unique interior materials
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Last Updated On Jun, 23-2025

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