The 2022 Toyota RAV4 compact SUV is perfect for anyone looking for a model in its class. It’s one of the most popular options in America, and for a good reason. For instance, the model offers versatility in interior space, fuel economy, and a high-end interior. Historically, the RAV4 is popular because of its affordability while maintaining reliability and a luxurious feeling. When Consumer Reports got its hands on the SUV, there was plenty to like; however, there were a few things it didn’t like about the 2022 Toyota RAV4.

Consumer Reports doesn’t like the Toyota RAV4’s noise

According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 creates more engine noise than competitors. Reviewers at CR describe it as a “raucous-sounding engine.” Additionally, wind and road noises stay in the background, but not enough to cancel out the engine. While it certainly isn’t a deal-breaker for most people, engine noise can be annoying, especially when people are switching to EVs, which make little to no sound.

Alternatively, CR says the hybrid version is quieter with less engine noise than the standard RAV4 engine. However, it noted that even the hybrid engine noise is only about average among rivals. While it does reduce the sound of the non-hybrid RAV4 engine, it still doesn’t beat many competitors. Toyota’s offering could use some work in the engine noise department for an SUV that excels in most areas.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4’s ride could be better

For the 2022 model year, the Toyota RAV4 absorbs bumps and ruts “reasonably well,” according to CR. However, the reviewer noted that drivers “can feel some cracks and expansion joints in the cabin as well as abrupt pitches.” Compared to rivals, both the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester feature a much more comfortable ride quality.

As for handling, the RAV4 is a responsive, well-handling SUV that’s improved slightly over previous model years. However, as with other gripes, CR has, it doesn’t beat competitors. The Mazda CX-5 is notably more “athletic” handling than the 2022 Toyota RAV4. Regardless of how good the RAV4 might be, it needs to be better than the competition to satisfy CR.

Consumer Reports doesn’t like the fit and finish

Fit and finish, in layman’s terms, is how well the vehicle is put together. Does it fall apart with a touch or a little bit of wear and tear? If so, the fit and finish will be deemed poor. According to CR, “the cabin feels bland, bordering on cheap, because of its abundant use of hard plastic trim.” Door trims, among many other interior surfaces, are made entirely of firm surfaces. Only mildly padded armrests add some softness to the interior.

CR also mentioned that it noticed some panel gaps in the vehicle’s interior. There is an available leather-wrapped steering wheel, but the standard plastic variant feels and looks very cheap. Other than that, the reviewer was primarily satisfied with the interior of the RAV4. Items like features, buttons, gear selectors, and even wiper and headlight stalks are of good quality. Overall, compared to rivals, the RAV4 could have a much better fit and finish than it currently offers.

Should you buy a 2022 Toyota RAV4?

If you need an SUV with tons of reliability at an affordable price, the Toyota RAV4 is perfect. Despite some of these minor gripes, Consumer Reports still gave the 2022 RAV4 an overall score of 65 out of 100. It’s number nine on its list of 24 compact SUVs but still excels in reliability and other areas. Fuel economy, in particular, is a bright spot for this model. Consumer Reports doesn’t like the RAV4’s engine noise, ride quality, and interior fit and finish, but none of these items are complete deal-breakers. Regardless, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent overall compact SUV, but there are some things Consumer Reports doesn’t like about it.