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New year, new Toyota RAV4, right? Well, maybe, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is certainly due for some updates. The 2023 Honda CR-V is rocking a total redesign, but what’s up with the 2023 Toyota RAV4? Is it any better? To be honest, it might still feel a little dated.

Is the 2022 Toyota RAV4 different from the 2023 Toyota RAV4? 

2023 Toyota RAV4 off-roading
2023 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

While the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is great, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 got a few notable improvements. A new standard 8.0-inch infotainment screen is replacing the 7.0-inch unit. Plus, you can opt for a 10.5-inch unit. 

This is a big deal because the screen on the outgoing model was a little dated. The graphics seemed old and the camera graphics were little blurry. The software was a little slow too. It also maintains plenty of physical controls.

Now the updated graphics are vibrant, and the system is smarter. Plus, now it can receive over-the-air updates and includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. The system is more intuitive and faster as well. 

Other upgrades include a standard 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster, while a larger 12.3-inch model is available. It should provide updated information for the driver. 

Other than that, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and 2023 Toyota RAV4 models are pretty much the same. The RAV4 could benefit from a mid-cycle refresh soon. Hopefully, that’s coming in 2024. But it’s not looking like significant changes are on the way yet.

How much does the 2023 RAV4 cost? 

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 price starts at $27,975, while the 2022 RAV4 begins at around $26,795. This represents a $1,180 increase over the outgoing model. It seems a bit high, but the new tech could be worth it. 

Also, the RAV4 delivery fee is 1,095, and the prices listed are the MSRP’s. Dealership markups are not included. 

The RAV4 has the same amount of power as before. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine cranks out 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.0 seconds. That’s slow, but adequate for merging into traffic and passing others.

When properly equipped, the RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 lbs which matches rivals in the class. Plus, you can add AWD to every model in the lineup. 

There also aren’t any interior updates aside from the updated tech. The base model starts off a little sparse, with plastic trim pieces. Higher trim levels add leather upholstery, soft-touch covered surfaces, and a panoramic sunroof. 

The 2024 RAV4 starts at $28,475, so that’s only a $1,000 increase. It’s pretty much a carryover model with no notable upgrades aside from a new shade of Army Green paint.

Is the 2023 RAV4 worth buying? 

A blue 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid small hybrid SUV is driving.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | Toyota

Yes, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent SUV to consider. It’s practical, spacious, and reliable, with plenty of comfort and convenience options. It provides a smooth ride over pavement and a peaceful interior. However, the engine noise can be intrusive at times. 

The front and rear have plenty of space for adults to stretch out comfortably. Also, there are tons of storage cubbies and trays around. You can access 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear and up to 69.8 cubes overall. 

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, forward collision mitigation, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. 

If you want your new Toyota RAV4 model to feel more modern and fresh, then it might be best to wait for the 2025 model. Perhaps it will gain a slight redesign with even more tech if it gains a mid-cycle refresh. But mid-cycle updates typically don’t include powertrain upgrades.

We can’t believe the RAV4 has been pushed back by another year. However, it’s still a sales leader in the segment, so Toyotoa can afford to wait.