The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that offers a smooth ride and a good amount of cargo space for its class. For 2017, Toyota added several driver assist safety features and made them standard on all the trim levels. These include forward collision warning and mitigation, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. There are five trim levels to choose from, so you can decide which RAV4 trim is perfect for you.
The LE
The LE is the base trim and comes with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. You’ll get the Safety Sense pre-collision system, Bluetooth, a USB port, and an auxiliary jack. The LE also comes with a multifunction remote, a rearview camera, and the LATCH system for car seats.
The XLE
The XLE builds on the LE, adding 17-inch aluminum wheels and the Entune infotainment system. In addition, the XLE also has a moonroof with a sliding sunshade and integrated turn signals in the exterior mirrors. The upgraded infotainment system includes navigation, traffic information, and the Scout GPS link.
The SE
The SE is the sporty version of the RAV4. This model has a different exterior trim with a different front bumper and grill. It also adds LED headlights in front and premium vinyl upholstery for the interior. You’ll also get automatic climate control, dual front air conditioning zones, and the driver’s seat has an adjustable lumbar support feature. The SE also has front fog lights and LED tail lights. Choose the SE for paddle shifters, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and some additional safety features, including a blind spot sensor and rear cross traffic alert.
The Limited
The Limited trim adds chrome door handles and 18-inch wheels. On the inside, the driver’s seat has a memory function, and you’ll also get navigation and Sirius satellite radio as part of the infotainment system. The upgraded Entune system will even add voice recognition, a touchscreen display, and electronic messaging assistance that comes with a read function. The Limited adds extra comfort features, including an automatic dimming rearview mirror, a push-button start, and a universal garage door opener. The seats have Toyota’s SofTex synthetic material that looks and feels like leather. As a safety feature, this trim adds front and rear parking sensors.
The Platinum
The Platinum trim gets you an upgraded JBL stereo system and a proximity entry system along with a trunk release. On the outside, the Platinum has a monochromatic look with body-color door handles and other exterior features. This new trim will also get you a heated steering wheel, and navigation is a standard feature.
All the RAV4 trims come standard with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive also is available, no matter which trim level you choose. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only option among all the trims, and the engine is also the same. The biggest differences between the trims come down the to the creature comforts and technology.
Image by Admiral_Lebioda, used under CCO 1.0