2012 Toyota RAV4
- 2011 Toyota RAV4
- Used Toyota RAV4
- RepairsToyota RAV4
Based on analysis of 79 RAV4 reviews and test drives.
U.S.News Scores
| Overall: | 8.5 |
| Performance: | 8.1 |
| Exterior: | 7.9 |
| Interior: | 7.4 |
| Safety: | 9.5 |
| Reliability: | NA |
Pros and Cons
- Powerful optional V6
- Can seat up to seven with available third row
- Lots of cargo room
- Awkward cargo door
- Competitors have nicer interiors
- Rivals have more refined performance
Research Other Years
Toyota RAV4 Review - What the Auto Press Says
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 ranks 3 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 79 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota RAV4, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The automotive press likes the 2012 Toyota RAV4 because it has a ton of cargo space, a powerful optional V6 engine and an optional third row.
The compact SUV class is pretty large, and the 2012 Toyota RAV4 has two features that make it stand out: an optional third row, which is one of few in the class, and a powerful V6 engine.
If you’re considering another SUV that offers more cargo space than the RAV4, you should keep in mind that only one model in the class, the Honda CR-V, has as much overall cargo space as the RAV4. That means the RAV4’s combination of heaps of interior space and optional seating for seven make it one of the best family vehicles in the class. But if you’re not shopping for your family, reviewers think shoppers looking for a greater dose of luxury are better served by the competition.
Fancy or not, reviewers can't deny the RAV4's practicality or its powerful V6 engine. That’s why the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is our 2012 Best Affordable Compact SUV with 3 Rows for the Money.
Other SUVs to Consider
Reviewers consider the Honda CR-V the family-oriented and more refined alternative to the Toyota RAV4. While it doesn’t have an optional third row, the CR-V does come standard with a conversation mirror, which helps the driver monitor children in the second row. It also has about as much cargo space as the RAV4 with its rear seats folded. Shoppers who don’t mind giving up the RAV4’s more rugged-looking exterior and optional third row in exchange for more family-friendly features should be pleased with the CR-V.
For a crossover that doesn’t look quite as frumpy as the CR-V or RAV4, consider the GMC Terrain. Reviewers like that the Terrain breaks the mold with its boxy, truck-like exterior styling, yet still manages to handle family duty. The Terrain doesn’t have as much cargo space as the CR-V or RAV4, but it does have a versatile cargo storage system and a very comfortable rear seat that slides forward and back.
Details: Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 comes in base, performance-oriented Sport and top-of-the-line Limited trims. Four-wheel drive is optional, as is a third row. For 2012, the RAV4 sees few changes. It offers a new audio system with Entune services. Entune-equipped models have a three-year subscription to apps and services that owners can use by pairing their smartphone to the RAV4. With Entune, drivers can access Pandora Internet radio, for example.
- "Its size makes it a great errand runner, even if the rear cargo door opens from the wrong side for a U.S. audience. There is the Toyota promise of quality construction and long life. Plus, if you can hold the line on options, you can get one for a reasonable price." -- MarketWatch
- "With an available powerful V6 engine, impressive cargo room, and fine road manners, RAV4 is a Recommended choice. Base prices are reasonable, but stickers skyrocket with options, so choose carefully. Several test models also have disappointed with unacceptable quality gaffes. Shop around, but don't leave the RAV4 off your list." -- Consumer Guide
RAV4 Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 has an optional V6 engine that reviewers like, but they say other SUVs in the class offer a more comfortable ride. Read More
RAV4 Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 has a more rugged look than the Honda CR-V, and reviewers like that the RAV4’s exterior isn’t quite as bland. View Photos
RAV4 Interior - 7.4 (Good)
Reviewers are impressed that the 2012 Toyota RAV4 has a ton of cargo space and optional seating for seven, but they are disappointed with its interior quality. Read More
RAV4 Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 has good safety scores, but it doesn't have the highest ones in the class. Read More
RAV4 Reliability - NA
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, which is normal for the class. Read More
