The Toyota RAV4 IV 2.0 D-4D (124 Hp) represents a significant offering in the compact SUV segment, particularly within the European market. As the fourth generation of Toyota’s popular RAV4, launched in 2012 and produced until 2015, this iteration marked a shift towards a more streamlined and car-like aesthetic compared to its predecessors. While the RAV4 enjoys widespread recognition in the United States, the 2.0 D-4D variant was specifically engineered for regions favoring diesel powertrains, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and versatility crucial for its target demographic.
The Toyota RAV4 IV: A Global Perspective
The RAV4 IV signified a pivotal moment for Toyota’s compact SUV lineup. It moved away from the more rugged, off-road focused styling of earlier models, embracing a design that appealed to a broader, urban and family-oriented audience. This generation aimed to refine the driving experience, enhance interior comfort, and integrate more advanced technology, all while upholding Toyota’s renowned reliability. The 2.0 D-4D engine was central to this European strategy, providing a robust and economical option for consumers facing higher fuel costs and stricter emissions regulations.
Engine & Performance: The 1AD-FTV Diesel
The heart of the Toyota RAV4 IV 2.0 D-4D (124 Hp) is the 1AD-FTV engine, a 2.0-liter (1998 cm3 or 121.93 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel. This powerplant features a DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, designed for both efficiency and a responsive driving experience. It incorporates a sophisticated diesel common rail fuel injection system, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, optimizing fuel atomization and air intake for improved combustion.
The engine produces 124 horsepower at 3,600 rpm, equating to 62.1 horsepower per liter. More notably, it delivers 310 Newton-meters (228.64 lb.-ft.) of torque, available between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. This low-end torque is particularly advantageous for an SUV, providing strong acceleration and confident highway performance. The 2.0 D-4D is exclusively paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering a direct and engaging driving feel in this front-wheel-drive configuration.
Performance figures are competitive for its class. The RAV4 IV 2.0 D-4D accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10 seconds (0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds), reaching a top speed of 111.85 mph (180 km/h). However, its primary strength lies in its fuel economy. Combined cycle consumption is an impressive 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers (48 US mpg or 57.6 UK mpg). Urban driving yields 41.3 US mpg, while extra-urban cruising can achieve up to 53.5 US mpg. These figures, combined with CO2 emissions of 127 g/km, allowed it to meet Euro 5 J emission standards.
Design & Features: Balancing Utility and Style
The fourth-generation RAV4 adopted a more streamlined and contemporary design. Its body type remains that of an SUV, but with a more dynamic stance and sharper lines. Measuring 179.92 inches (4570 mm) in length, 72.64 inches (1845 mm) in width, and 65.35 inches (1660 mm) in height, the RAV4 IV balances a compact footprint for urban use with a spacious interior for five passengers. The 104.72-inch (2660 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and generous cabin space.
The interior offers a practical and comfortable environment. The five-seat configuration provides ample passenger space, while the cargo area offers a minimum of 19.32 cubic feet (547 liters) of trunk volume, expandable for larger loads. The vehicle’s design also prioritizes utility, with a maximum roof load of 187.39 lbs (85 kg) and a towing capacity of 3,527.4 lbs (1600 kg) with brakes, suitable for light recreational towing.
The RAV4 IV features an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension, designed for a comfortable ride and competent handling. Braking is provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, enhanced by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The rack and pinion steering system offers precise control. Standard tire size is 225/65 R17, mounted on 6.5J x 17-inch wheel rims, balancing grip and ride comfort. With a ground clearance of 7.36 inches (187 mm) and a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.314, the RAV4 IV is aerodynamically efficient and capable of light off-road excursions, though primarily geared towards on-road performance.
Technical Specifications: Toyota RAV4 IV 2.0 D-4D (124 Hp)
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 |
| Generation | RAV4 IV |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D-4D (124 Hp) |
| Start of Production | 2012 |
| End of Production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph (Calculated) | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 J |
| Power | 124 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per liter | 62.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1AD-FTV |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt) |
| Max. weight (Gross Vehicle Weight) | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 547 l (19.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal) |
| Max. roof load | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4570 mm (179.92 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2660 mm (104.72 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 187 mm (7.36 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.314 |
The Toyota RAV4 IV 2.0 D-4D (124 Hp) played a vital role in solidifying the RAV4’s position as a practical, efficient, and versatile SUV, particularly in markets where diesel powertrains were favored. Its blend of fuel economy, reliability, and comfortable driving experience made it a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV segment.
