2015 Toyota RAV4
New for 2015
The RAV4 rolls into the 2015 model year mostly unchanged. A Blizzard Pearl Premium trim package is now available on the RAV4 Limited, and there’s also a new Hot Lava paint option, along with some other small changes.
Seek Adventure
With a name that stands for Recreational Activity Vehicle with 4-Wheel Drive, it’s not surprising that the 2015 Toyota RAV4 can handle just about anything you throw at it. The RAV4 combines the space and all-wheel drive capability with the fuel economy and style of a car, making for a compact crossover that should definitely be on your short list.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is available with just one powertrain, but it can change to suit the driver’s mood. It consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Like many modern cars, the RAV4 has multiple driving modes, and they can really alter the car’s behavior depending on the situation. In Sport mode, the RAV4 quickens shift timing, and sharpens throttle response and steering feel. It also blips the throttle on downshifts, giving some of the feel of a manual transmission.
On the other end of the spectrum, Eco mode sets up the powertrain to maximize fuel economy. The RAV4 is also available with either standard front-wheel drive or optional Dynamic Torque Control all-wheel drive.
With front-wheel drive, the RAV4 claims EPA-rated fuel economy of 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway)*, while all-wheel drive models are rated at 25 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway)*.
Features and Trims
The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is available only as a five-door, five-seat small crossover. It comes in three trim levels, starting at $23,680**.
Even the base RAV4 LE represents good value, with standard features including auto-off headlights, a rear spoiler, tilt/telescope multifunction steering wheel, 60/40 split-folding rear bench, eight cupholders, a tire-pressure monitoring system, audio system with 6.1-inch touchscreen display, and a multifunction steering wheel.
The mid-level RAV4 model is the XLE, which includes all of the applicable standard features from LE, as well as fog lights, a power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, sport-bolstered front seats, a cargo-area tonneau cover, and other features.
The top RAV4 model is the Limited, which incorporates the standard features from the LE and XLE models, and adds auto on/off headlights, a power liftgate, Toyota’s Entune App Suite, a premium audio system with navigation, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever, heated power front seats, Smart Key system with pushbutton start, and a sliding center armrest with console storage box.
Optional features for the RAV4 Limited also include heated power-folding exterior mirrors and the Blizzard Pearl Premium appearance package.
Exterior/Interior
The current-generation RAV4 embraces its car-based crossover roots with exterior styling that doesn’t bother with any truck-like false machismo, instead emphasizing the RAV4’s role as a sensible on-road vehicle.
Previous generations of RAV4 had spare tires mounted on the tailgate, but the 2015 model does away with this for a cleaner look, easier access to the cargo area, and the ability to fit the power liftgate that’s available on certain models.
Instead of the flat noses of many trucks and SUVs, the RAV4 features a streamlined schnoz, part of a sleek design that includes a fast roofline and nicely-rounded wheel arches. The optional 18-inch alloy wheels add a touch of sportiness.
The cabin is pretty sporty as well. The driver faces an asymmetrical dash panel with clear-blue illumination and a multi-information display in the gauge cluster. It includes useful information like fuel economy, distance to empty, selected gear, and warning lights.
The front seats feature a slim-back design to maximize rear-seat space, and are available with optional sport bolsters. They do a good job, too, allowing for 37.2 cubic feet of rear legroom. There’s also 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, or 73.4 cubic feet with the 60/60 split-folding rear bench folded.
Safety
The 2015 RAV4 comes standard with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and Smart Stop Technology. It also features front, driver’s knee, front-side, and side-curtain airbags and Whiplash Injury-Lessening front seats.
Optional safety equipment includes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and auto high-beam headlights.
Bottom Line
The 2015 Toyota RAV4 combines the best attributes of a car and a traditional SUV into a highly practical and appealing package.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at DCH Toyota of Oxnard to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices list are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other charges.
Image: Toyota