Before purchasing your next vehicle, consider what you need it to do for you. For some people, towing capacity is a must. If you’re interested in an SUV that can tow, you may want to research the different towing capacities of the various options available. In doing so, you’re sure to come across the Toyota RAV4. This stylish SUV has everything you could want in a new car, including the ability to tow. Here’s more about the RAV4’s capabilities.
Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity
When it comes to towing capacity, it’s all about torque. Luckily, the RAV4 has plenty of it, regardless of whether you choose the gas-powered engine or the hybrid version. The gas-powered RAV4 models come equipped with a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine. This block gives you 184 lb-ft of torque, allowing you to tow up to 1,500 pounds. It offers three standard driving modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport.
If you prefer a gas-saving hybrid model, you’ll get the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and battery combination. This option delivers an impressive 219 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, allowing you to tow up to 1,750 pounds.
You can add a tow hitch receiver and wiring harness package to any of the Toyota RAV4’s trim levels. A 100-amp alternator and automatic transmission fluid cooler help the gas models with towing. This makes the RAV4 the perfect SUV for adventurous drivers and those with a job to do.
Performance
Taking on the road in a vehicle that’s fun to drive and comfortable to ride in will make your day much better, especially if you’re towing. Driving the RAV4 means sitting behind the wheel of an SUV that handles like a smaller car. McPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension help absorb any imperfections on the road. Meanwhile, active cornering assist works to guide you around curves with ease. Hill start assist control makes it easier to go up steep inclines, making your commute or towing experience less stressful.
Upgrade to the dynamic torque vectoring all-wheel-drive system for improved traction and control when you’re on rough, rocky, or slippery terrain. It provides more traction to individual wheels when it senses they’re slipping. Upgrading to all-wheel drive also gives you access to multi-terrain select, with additional drive modes to give you more control over your driving experience. Wheel sizes for the RAV4 range from 17-inch up to 19-inch, depending on which trim level and package options you select.
No matter how much you tow behind you, the RAV4’s eight-speed automatic transmission seamlessly moves the SUV through the gears. An Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission ECVT shifts the RAV4 effortlessly through the gears in the hybrid models. Getting up to speed won’t be an issue, even with a load in tow.
RAV4 Exterior Style
While the RAV4 boasts a fantastic interior, it’s exterior is also a head-turner. Although the RAV4’s engine does most of the work when it comes to towing, the exterior style helps with the SUV’s aerodynamics and overall stability. It has a wheelbase of 105.9 inches and a length of 180.9 inches, giving it a solid stance. Every model has aerodynamic underbody panels and an integrated rear spoiler that improves gas mileage and enhances the SUV’s appearance. LED lighting provides you with better visibility and gives the RAV4 an aggressive stance, while the dual chrome-tipped exhaust leaves an impression when you pull away.
Going with a higher trim level opens up additional features you may want to take advantage of. For example, bumping up just one trim level to the XLE means you get heated outside mirrors with built-in turn signal indicators. Move up to the Adventure trim if you want unique raised black roof rails that allow you to take even more gear on your outings. Top-tier trim levels offer exciting upgrades, such as a moonroof, active grille shutters, and black and chrome accents.
Safety and Technology
Whether you’re towing your ATV to the mountains for the weekend or driving your daily route to work, safety is key when you’re behind the wheel. That’s why every RAV4 comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard. This suite of driver-assist features includes pre-collision alert with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and automatic high beams. You’ll also get lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and dynamic radar cruise control.
A backup camera lets you see what’s behind you as you’re backing up without having to look over your shoulder constantly. Meanwhile, you can use the tire pressure monitoring system to ensure your tires are always properly inflated. If you choose a higher trim level, you’ll benefit from a blind-spot monitor with a rear cross-traffic alert, which helps you stay alert and aware when pulling out into traffic. As an additional safety measure, the top trim offers a package that includes a bird’s-eye view camera.
How the Toyota RAV4 Measures Up
You may wonder how the Toyota RAV4 compares with other vehicles of the same size and class regarding towing capacity. Take a look at the tow ratings for some similar vehicles:
- Ford Escape: 1,500 pounds.
- Volkswagen Tiguan: 1,500 pounds.
- Honda CRV: 1,500 pounds.
- Chevrolet Equinox: 1,500 pounds.
- Subaru Forester: 1,500 pounds.
- Nissan Rogue: 1,350 pounds.
If you’re looking for similar Toyota SUVs, check out this list of towing capacities:
- Corolla Cross: 1,500 pounds.
- Highlander: 3,500 pounds.
- 4Runner: 5,000 pounds.
As you can see, the Toyota RAV4 is an excellent vehicle that can meet all your needs for space, power, performance, and towing. When you’re ready to see it for yourself, stop by Dublin Toyota. Our friendly staff is waiting to help you learn more about your dream car and advise you on what you need to do to get behind the wheel. You can take it for a test drive to see how it handles on the road and then talk to our knowledgeable finance department about how to get the funds you need to drive the car you love home.
Toyota corolla logo inside car on steering wheel by Christina Telep is licensed with Unsplash License
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