We already know that the Toyota RAV4 is a great SUV. But does the TRD trim option make it even better? Is it worth upgrading to the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Roading model for more off-roading capabilities? 

Is The RAV4 TRD Off-Roading Trim Worth It?

To get started in the Toyota RAV4 base model, you need to spend about $25k, which isn’t bad for an all-wheel-drive SUV that can seat up to five passengers. 

However, to upgrade to the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road edition, the coast is raised to $35k.

So, we hope a lot of extra perks are included with the additional $10k you have to spend to upgrade. 

Upgrading only hurts the fuel economy a little. The base model RAV4 gets up to 26 mpg in the city and up to 35 mpg on the highway. 

The RAV4 TRD only gets up to 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, but that’s still very efficient. 

Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Performance 

The Toyota RAV TRD Off-Road option has a weaker fuel economy because it comes with more power. 

It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that offers 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This model can tow up to 3,500 lb. 

However, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road trim only comes with all-wheel-drive, making it pretty expensive compared to the Jeep Cherokee that has true 4×4 capabilities. 

The RAV4 TRD has a ground clearance of 8.1”, making it shorter than Jeeps as well. Because it’s shorter, it may have a weaker break over angle as well. 

It does come with 18” wheels that do enhance cornering and control, but drivers claim that the ride is stiff and bumpy. 

Also, the TRD version comes with an independent TRD-tuned  MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabilizer bar in the front. 

In the rear, you’ll find a multi-link suspension with a rear stabilizer bar, coil springs, and jounce bumpers. 

RAV4 TRD Off-Road Features 

With the TRD Off-Road RAV4, you get dynamic torque vectoring to automatically adjust the power and torque to the wheels in need. 

Also, you gain extra driving modes to select, including mud, snow, sand, downhill control, and more. 

The power liftgate and panoramic moonroof are also included with this trim option.

You also get a better infotainment center with more tech that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Wi-fi hotspot, and more. 

You also get raised black roof rails for a unique look and premium stitching that includes ‘TRD’ in the headrests to let people know what you’re working with. 

All of the safety features are also included, like the trailer sway control, downhill assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more.

These safety features are included in every trim option as well. 

So, no. Upgrading to the TRD Off-Road RAV4 isn’t worth it. All you gain is a few extra features for more convenience. 

Sure, a spiffier suspension is included, but it fails to provide extra comfort on the pavement.

Plus, the base model Jeeps are much more capable than the RAV4 TRD Off-Road.