5 Reasons Not To Buy the 2026 Toyota RAV4 // Consumer Reports

This is a Motormouth couple car video talking about a recent release from Consumer Reports listing 5 reason not to buy the new 2026 Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 is a very popular choice for many. The first generation RAV4 came out in 1996 and it has become the most popular passenger vehicle in the US, that isn’t a full-sized pick-up truck. But Consumer Reports believes there are other great choices in the compact class. Consumer Reports tested the RAV4 XLE Premium model. Consumer Reports gives 5 reasons car shoppers should consider other options. The Interior Is Meh The cabin has a trucky aesthetic like the 4Runner, Tacoma and Sequoia than more family focused small SUVs. The interior consists of hard plastics giving it an industrial and functional cabin, rather than attractive and premium. For the price, Consumer Reports expected more soft surfaces and contrasting trim elements on its XLE Premium model, you have to step up to more expensive trims. Although Consumer Reports does like the large door pockets and extra storage. Overall, it feels the interior works well but it isn’t modern and inviting like some of its competitors. Compromised Driver Comfort Consumer Reports feels the RAV4 boxes the driver in with its intrusive centre console and firm armrests. Several CR test drivers said that their right knee rubs on the centre console. There is a hard plastic piece attached to the side of the console that Consumer Reports believes could be replaced with a softer material. The test drivers said, the front seats are fine but found the seats to be flat and firm. It Didn’t Change Enough Toyota kept the proportions the same and updated the infotainment system, noise level, ride and safety but no reinvention here. Consumer Report says, owners of previous models 2019-2025 may find the new model too familiar. Competitors that have been redesigned have grown in size, cabin amenities have improved and the technology. Selling for Over Sticker According to Consumer Reports, the RAV4 is transacting at about 4% over sticker price nationwide. There are many other Hybrid Small SUVs to choose from Consumer Report says at one point the RAV4 was the only game in town if you want a smaller SUV with great fuel economy. Now there are so many more, Honda CR-V, Hyundai, Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Forester hybrids.   Reasons to Buy a Toyota RAV4 Now It’s fuel efficient, it’s reliable and for many the RAV4 is high on the shopping list. The test XLE Premium test model got a combined 41 MPG based on the first 2,000 miles Consumer Reports drove it. So you get a more powerful RAV4 that is even more fuel efficient. Current owners will find the new model to be very similar with identical proportions but many improvements. Then you have the RAV4 PHEV with more range, it’s more fuel efficient, more power and improved ride.

Added 29 Jun 2026