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, building upon the success of previous RAV4 models, caters to a broad audience seeking a reliable and adaptable vehicle for daily commuting and recreational activities. The 2021 facelift brought styling updates, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain, solidifying the RAV4’s position as a leading contender in its class.
Toyota RAV4 V (Facelift 2021): An Overview
The RAV4, originally introduced in 1994, pioneered the compact SUV segment. Over the years, it has evolved from a rugged, utilitarian vehicle to a more refined and comfortable crossover. The fifth generation, launched in 2019, marked a substantial departure in design and technology. The 2021 facelift further enhances these improvements, focusing on aesthetics, interior enhancements, and optimized performance. The RAV4 V, with its 2.5-liter engine, is primarily marketed in regions where larger displacement gasoline engines remain popular, offering a balance between power and fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 V is powered by the A25A-FKS 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 203 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 249 Newton-meters (183.65 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5000 rpm. The engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port manifold injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.5 kg/Hp, translating to 132.8 Hp per tonne, providing adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The engine is paired with an ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent) automatic transmission, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. Fuel economy figures are rated at 7.8 liters per 100 kilometers combined (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l). The RAV4 V meets ULEV-II emission standards, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Design & Features
The RAV4 V maintains the fifth generation’s bold and angular exterior styling, with the 2021 facelift introducing subtle refinements to the front fascia, headlights, and rear bumper. The vehicle’s SUV body style provides ample interior space and a commanding driving position. It offers seating for five passengers and features a practical five-door configuration. A key feature of the RAV4 V is its spacious cargo area, offering 1062 liters (37.5 cubic feet) of space with the rear seats up and expanding to 1977 liters (69.82 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. The vehicle’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Ride height, or ground clearance, ranges from 213 to 218 millimeters (8.39 to 8.58 inches), enhancing its capability on varied terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 |
| Generation | RAV4 V (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (203 Hp) ECT-i |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7-6.9 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | ULEV-II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 203 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Torque | 249 Nm @ 5000 rpm (183.65 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A25A-FKS |
| Engine displacement | 2487 cm3 (151.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 103.4 mm (4.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1529-1581 kg (3370.87 – 3485.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2091 kg (4609.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510-562 kg (1124.36 – 1239 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1062 l (37.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1977 l (69.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 68 kg (149.91 lbs.) |
| Length | 4595 mm (180.91 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1702-1707 mm (67.01 – 67.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213-218 mm (8.39 – 8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11-11.4 m (36.09 – 37.4 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 304.8 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 281.94 mm |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 235/55 R19 |
The Toyota RAV4 V (facelift 2021) 2.5 ECT-i continues to be a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a compelling combination of practicality, reliability, and efficiency. Its refined design, spacious interior, and capable powertrain make it a versatile vehicle for a wide range of drivers.
