If it seems like the Toyota RAV4 has been around a long time, that’s because it has. In fact, for 2022, the RAV4 celebrates its 25th year in the U.S. market. The RAV4 was an early entrant in the SUV segment as it rose in popularity over wagons and vans, and RAV4 is now not only the best-selling vehicle in the Toyota lineup but also the best selling SUV in the U.S.
While the current generation was refreshed and introduced in 2019, Toyota still wanted to do something to commemorate the RAV4’s 25th anniversary. Rather than start with another new generation, Toyota decided to offer a new, affordable trim for the RAV4 Hybrid. As such, for 2022 there will be a new SE Hybrid grade as well as some exterior and interior updates across all grades.
So, let’s take a look at everything that is new for the 2022 Toyota RAV4 as it celebrates 25 years.
Hybrid iterations for the RAV4 are now available up and down the entire RAV4 line. Toyota says the hybrid variations represent a growing segment and expanding the hybrid offering at a more base trim entry makes good sense and could attract more buyers, with a lower price point.
Pricing is not yet available for this new hybrid trim that slots below the SLE, but Toyota says the intent of the SE Hybrid is “designed for customers looking for sporty performance and sporty style but at a lower price than the XSE.”
The SE Hybrid will differentiate itself with some noticeable changes including mono-tone paint, fabric trimmed seats, a 7-inch touchscreen and an audio system with six speakers.
The weather package, which includes heated steering wheel, heated leather seats and rain-sensing wipers is available for the SE Hybrid. As part of the Convenience Package, the SE Hybrid will have a moonroof, height adjustable power liftgate and a new a 9-inch touchscreen.
Fuel economy ratings for this hybrid are not yet available and pricing is expected in mid-December.
As a refresh to the current generation, Toyota will showcase some new exterior and interior changes for all trims when it goes on sale next month.
The popular XSE trim gets a new color called Calvary Blue, which will also have black roof to add to the boldness. Toyota says Calvary Blue will also be available on the SE Hybrid as well as the existing TRD Off-Road. An additional design change includes new styles for the wheels of the 2022 RAV4.
One of the most noticeable changes is to the headlamps. New LED foglamps are being introduced for XLE Premium, Limited, Adventure and TRD Off Road. And the XSE Hybrid gets the same distinctive vertical lights that debuted on the XSE Prime in 2021.
Highlights of the interior changes include:
The RAV4 may not be the flashiest or sportiest SUV on the road, but 25 years is a long time for a vehicle to be successful. Typically Toyota plays things pretty conservatively. Case in point, rather than create a new generation to celebrate their 25th year, Toyota gives the 2022 RAV4 some new looks and a new hybrid trim. We think that’s good enough.
What is your favorite year or trim for the RAV4? Mine is the RAV4 Prime. Leave me your comments below.
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