A Buyer’s Guide to the 2023 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular SUVs on the market; in fact, it’s the most popular option in the compact SUV segment. People appreciate the RAV4 because it delivers solid performance, seats plenty, can tote a large amount of cargo, and has some of the best reliability ratings in automotive history. Some would say it’s not the most exciting vehicle Toyota makes, so its loyal following is no surprise. The RAV4 may be the hottest commodity at your local Toyota dealer.

The RAV4 doesn’t come in one flavor, however. Like most modern vehicles, buyers have a few options—and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is no different. While some don’t offer anything drastically unique, other Toyota RAV4 trims make certain situations seriously easier for drivers. Here’s what you should know…

The Trims of the 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 comes in six different trims, meaning this compact SUV can appeal to a reasonably diverse group of people. Those wanting a version of this SUV that does well off-road will be happy, while those who want a smooth ride will also find a RAV4 they’ll like.

You should note that each trim of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 has the same engine setup. While some may prefer a bit of diversity in this regard, the RAV4 isn’t an SUV that needs multiple engine options. However, it does offer two different hybrid variants.

The RAV4 LE

The RAV4 LE is the base trim of the compact SUV. Naturally, it’s also the most affordable. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE comes with a 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine. It has a maximum power output of 203 hp and a torque of 184 lb-ft. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and has front- and all-wheel drive configurations.

Of course, given that this is the base trim, there are a few shortcomings when people compare this version to any other. When examining this vehicle, buyers may notice that it lacks certain special features both on the exterior and within the cabin. This trim’s body may seem less impressive compared to higher trims, with its 17-inch steel wheels and the absence of advanced mirror options and fog lights found on other trims.

On the inside, the RAV4 LE has an 8.0-inch infotainment screen. Though not as big as other options, it has everything most buyers need and it’s easy to use. It also has connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and there are three USB ports to keep drivers and passengers plugged in. The 2023 RAV4 LE also has Wi-Fi hotspot support. In terms of driver assistance technology, the brilliant Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite is standard even on the base trim. Although this is the cheapest of the lineup, several of the RAV4’s competitors are more expensive.

The RAV4 XLE

The RAV4 XLE isn’t a huge difference from the base LE, but it’s one of the most popular versions of this SUV. One of the differences is that it has 17-inch alloy wheels; this alone makes many people like the XLE more. This trim also comes with black roof rails and colored door handles. Additionally, it has heated side mirrors, which are a huge convenience.

The RAV4 XLE has cloth seats on the inside, but it’s still an upgrade over the LE; this is partly due to the eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support. There are also five USB ports in this version as well as dual-zone climate control and two auxiliary ports. In terms of driver assistance technology, this trim has Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as well as a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

The RAV4 XLE Premium

The RAV4 XLE Premium is almost a different SUV than the lower trims. This one has 19-inch alloy wheels, which provide an ultra-smooth ride. It has LED fog lights and a power liftgate, making grocery shopping super convenient when you’ve only got one free finger.

The 2023 XLE Premium has SofTex leatherette upholstery and stitched accents around the cabin. For added comfort, it has soft touch armrests. Both the steering wheel and gear shift are wrapped in leather. Additionally, this trim has a power moonroof. It has the same safety features as the XLE trim, including the bonus BSM.

The RAV4 Adventure

The Adventure trim is where off-roading enthusiasts should pay attention to the RAV4. All-wheel drive is standard on this trim, and it has a much more aggressive-looking front grille. It also has raised roof rails. These changes make the 2023 RAV4 Adventure look much more like the utility vehicle that other trims have masked with luxuries. Regarding aesthetics, this is only one of two trims that offer a two-tone paint job. Perhaps most importantly, the Adventure trim has a multi-terrain drive selection.

This SUV is a solid build for off-roaders and can provide a well-rounded, sturdy backcountry experience. The RAV4 makes for an attractive option because it’s cheaper than other off-roading SUVs while also having higher reliability ratings than pricier options like the Jeep Renegade.

The RAV4 TRD Off-Road

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is the original of Toyota’s beloved off-road trims. It gets incredible handling and performance on uneven and loose ground despite its smaller size. It has a ground clearance of 8.6 inches thanks to its 0.5-inch lift; additionally, it has a front skid plate to ensure the undercarriage doesn’t get damaged on trails. It also comes standard with Falken all-terrain tires as well as features like Hill-Start Assist Control and an independent front suspension by MacPherson. You’re getting more here than with the Adventure trim, however, so you should account for that in your budget.

The RAV4 Limited

At the top of the trim lineup is the RAV4 Limited. For the most part, it offers much of the same as the other advanced trims of the 2023 RAV4. However, it differs because it adds some notable luxurious features. For one, it has a much more advanced torque vectoring system. Additionally, this trim has active grille shutters, side mirror puddle lights, and LED projector-style headlights.

The Legendary Reliability of the RAV4

Overall, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is a strong, stable, and reliable vehicle. Of course, most Toyota SUVs are, but this one gives that guarantee at a gloriously affordable price. With its high reliability ratings, your 2023 RAV4 should last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles without any serious issues, presuming it’s well maintained. All six of these trims will get you the same dependability—everything else is just roses.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 has much to offer to almost anyone who wants a small SUV. It’s a worthy option for those who want a tough off-roader, but it can be outfitted just as well into a comfortable den. It’s simply a well-rounded SUV, and it’s been around for quite a while now, proving its popularity and reliability. Toyota includes trims to speak to a variety of needs and interests.

If you’re interested in looking over one of these trims or taking the 2023 Toyota RAV4 out for a test drive, stop by Marietta Toyota. Our friendly showroom staff can walk you through the perks, answer any questions, and hand you the keys to one of your own.