Toyota continues to bring the heat in the compact SUV segment with newer and better models of the RAV4. Although saying you can’t live without something is a bit of a stretch, we’ve got six features that make the 2023 Toyota RAV4 something special for you to drive.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 finally receives a TRD-tuned suspension

Toyota took long enough to realize it can best most compact SUVs by simply giving the RAV more off-road juice. That juice starts with the TRD-tuned suspension, which we’ve seen in most larger Toyota trucks and SUVs. The Toyota models wearing the TRD Pro badge are well-known for being more capable than their non-TRD counterparts. This new suspension is refreshing and provides the missing oomph to the RAV4.

The off-road prowess of this Toyota compact SUV is much better

Many compact SUVs must stick to driving between the lines on a paved road. You won’t take the Nissan Rogue Sport or Mazda CX-5 out on a light or medium trail unless you want to get stuck. Most of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 trims come equipped with AWD to make this a more capable off-roader. The wilderness package adds more rugged characteristics and qualities to give you that adventurous feeling.

The RAV4 is surprisingly quick

You’ll probably never need to hit the gas for much more than getting up to highway speeds, but it’s nice to know you can reach that speed quickly in the 2023 Toyota RAV4. The Hybrid model has a quoted sprint speed of 7.4 seconds to reach 60 mph, according to HotCars. Most other compact SUVs can’t come close to this speed. This Toyota SUV isn’t a speed demon, but it’s not slow or sluggish either.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 features a larger infotainment screen

Move over Honda CR-V; the Toyota RAV4 has a larger touchscreen right out of the gate. This bigger screen measures eight inches in the base model and replaces the old 7-inch system. Although Honda redesigned the CR-V for 2023, Honda kept the 7-inch screen in the lower trims, giving the RAV4 the edge in screen size.

Toyota hits all the right safety marks with this compact SUV

The newest Toyota RAV4 offers an array of safety features, including but not limited to:

• Lane departure warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane tracing assist
• Road sign assist

The result of adding these items is a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA. This makes the 2023 Toyota RAV4 one of the safest compact SUVs you can drive.

A disconnecting rear axle adds fuel economy to the RAV4

Toyota didn’t leave you high and dry with the AWD versions of the RAV4. Instead, this compact SUV includes a new disconnecting rear axle. This feature enables the FWD model for most of your driving. This saves fuel and brings you the quality drive desired. When you need power to all four wheels, the rear axle reconnects, and you’ve got the AWD capabilities desired.

Will these six features of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 put it at the top of your shopping list?