The Toyota RAV4 V, specifically the TRD Off-Road 2.5 (203 Hp) AWD ECT-i variant introduced with the 2021 facelift, represents a significant iteration in Toyota’s popular compact SUV lineup. The RAV4, initially launched in 1994, pioneered the segment of car-based crossover SUVs, offering a more comfortable and fuel-efficient alternative to traditional, truck-based models. The “V” designation denotes a facelift, bringing updated styling, technology, and in the case of the TRD Off-Road, enhanced off-road capability. This model is primarily sold in North America, with similar RAV4 variants available globally, though the TRD Off-Road trim is largely a North American specification. The RAV4 competes with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Nissan Rogue, focusing on practicality, reliability, and now, a more adventurous spirit.
Toyota RAV4 V TRD Off-Road: A Detailed Overview
The 2021 facelift of the RAV4 V brought subtle but impactful changes to the exterior styling, including revised headlights and grille designs. However, the TRD Off-Road trim distinguishes itself with unique styling cues designed to emphasize its rugged character. These include distinctive alloy wheels, a special front lower valance, and TRD badging. The core appeal of the RAV4 remains its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and Toyota’s renowned reliability. The TRD Off-Road variant builds upon this foundation by adding features geared towards light to moderate off-road excursions, appealing to buyers seeking an active lifestyle vehicle.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2021 Toyota RAV4 V TRD Off-Road is the A25A-FKS 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 203 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 249 Nm (183.65 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5000 rpm. The engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 8.1 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.6 kg/Nm. The engine is paired with an ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent) automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth and efficient operation, adapting to driving conditions to optimize fuel economy and performance. The drivetrain is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system where the internal combustion engine drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are engaged through an electrically operated clutch when needed. This system enhances traction in various conditions, including snow, gravel, and dirt. Fuel economy is rated at 8.4 l/100 km combined (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg), with 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) in urban settings and 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) on the highway.
Design & Features
The Toyota RAV4 V TRD Off-Road is a five-door, five-seat SUV. Its body-on-frame construction contributes to its durability and off-road capability. The TRD Off-Road trim features a more aggressive aesthetic, with unique exterior styling elements. Inside, the RAV4 offers a comfortable and practical cabin with ample space for passengers and cargo. The trunk offers 1062 liters (37.5 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up and expands to 1977 liters (69.82 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features including ABS, and various driver-assistance technologies. The TRD Off-Road trim adds features like all-terrain tires, upgraded suspension components, and a distinctive interior trim. Ride height (ground clearance) is 218 mm (8.58 in), enhancing its ability to navigate rough terrain. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4610 mm (181.5 in) in length, 1864 mm (73.39 in) in width, and 1742 mm (68.58 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2690 mm (105.91 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 |
| Generation | RAV4 V (facelift 2021) |
| Type | TRD Off-Road 2.5 (203 Hp) AWD ECT-i |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | ULEV-II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 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 | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2134 kg (4704.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 494 kg (1089.08 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%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 159 kg (350.53 lbs.) |
| Length | 4610 mm (181.5 in.) |
| Width | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Height | 1742 mm (68.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 19° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 304.8 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 281.94 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
