The fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA40) marked a significant shift in the model's philosophy. It abandoned the rugged, compact off-roader look (dropping the rear-door-mounted spare tire and the V6 engine option) to become a more conventional, spacious, and family-oriented crossover SUV. A major facelift occurred in late 2015 (for the 2016 model year), which introduced a sleeker front fascia, improved interior materials, better sound insulation, and, crucially, the highly successful Hybrid powertrain. While the petrol and hybrid variants are renowned for their bulletproof reliability, the diesel engines (which are the primary focus of this review) present a more complex picture. Pre-facelift models utilized Toyota's own AD-series diesel engines (2.0L and 2.2L), which had overcome the catas
If you are buying a Toyota RAV4 XA40, the general rule is: Buy the Hybrid or Petrol, be very cautious with the Diesel. While the RAV4 is fundamentally a highly reliable vehicle, the diesel engines do not live up to Toyota's legendary standards. The early 2.0L and 2.2L AD engines are plagued by DPF and EGR issues if not driven hard on the highway. The later BMW-sourced 2.0L is better to drive but brings timing chain and EGR cooler anxieties. If you absolutely must buy a diesel for heavy towing or high-mileage highway driving, the post-2015 2.0L (BMW) is the lesser evil, provided it has a flawless service history. However, for 90% of buyers, the 2.5L Hybrid is the definitive choice: it offers diesel-like fuel economy in the city with zero emissions-system headaches.