The Toyota RAV4 V, specifically the facelifted version introduced in September 2021, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular compact SUV. Positioned within the highly competitive crossover segment, the RAV4 V (for Versatile) aims to balance practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features. This generation, while not initially designed for the North American market in its original form, has become a global success, with the RAV4 consistently ranking among the best-selling SUVs worldwide. The 2021 facelift brought styling updates, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain, solidifying its appeal to a broad range of buyers.
Toyota RAV4 V (Facelift 2021): An Overview
The RAV4, originally introduced in 1994, pioneered the compact SUV segment, offering a car-like driving experience with the versatility of a sport utility vehicle. The “V” designation typically denotes a trim level offering a balance of features and value. The 2021 facelift focused on enhancing the RAV4’s already strong points, improving its aesthetics and refining its driving dynamics. This particular model features a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, making it a capable and efficient all-weather vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 V is powered by the M20A-FKS 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 173 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 203 Nm (149.73 lb.-ft.) of torque between 4,400 and 4,900 rpm. The engine utilizes both direct injection and multi-port manifold injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The power-to-weight ratio is 9.5 kg/Hp, or 105.8 Hp/tonne, providing adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The engine’s naturally aspirated design contributes to a smooth and predictable power curve. The CVT transmission is designed to maximize fuel efficiency by continuously adjusting the gear ratio to keep the engine operating in its optimal range. The AWD system enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph).
Design & Features
The RAV4 V maintains the SUV’s robust and modern exterior styling, with the 2021 facelift bringing subtle but noticeable changes to the front fascia, headlights, and rear taillights. The body is a five-door SUV configuration, offering seating for five passengers. Key features include a spacious interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. The interior design emphasizes practicality and comfort, with durable materials and ample storage space. The trunk (boot) offers a minimum capacity of 733 liters (25.89 cu. ft.), providing generous cargo space for everyday needs. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for occupant protection. The vehicle’s ride height of 195 mm (7.68 in) provides good ground clearance for navigating varied terrain. The suspension system, featuring McPherson struts in the front and a double wishbone setup in the rear, is tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining responsive handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 |
| Generation | RAV4 V (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (173 Hp) AWD CVT |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 105.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 124.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 203 Nm @ 4400-4900 rpm (149.73 lb.-ft. @ 4400-4900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M20A-FKS |
| Engine displacement | 1986 cm3 (121.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97.6 mm (3.84 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1635-1680 kg (3604.56 – 3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495-540 kg (1091.29 – 1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 733 l (25.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4615 mm (181.69 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 195 mm (7.68 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels driven by clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 18 |
The Toyota RAV4 V (facelift 2021) 2.0 AWD CVT continues to be a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a compelling combination of practicality, efficiency, and reliability. Its refined design, comfortable interior, and capable all-wheel-drive system make it a versatile vehicle for a wide range of drivers.
