Toyota RAV4 IV (XA40) (2012 – 2018)

Reliability score : 8.8/10

The fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 (codename XA40) marks a radical turning point in the model's history. Gone is the small adventurous 4x4 with the spare wheel on the tailgate: the RAV4 IV becomes more refined and transforms into a spacious family SUV, focused on road comfort and interior space. Launched in late 2012 and marketed in 2013, it benefited from a major facelift in 2015 (Phase 2) which introduced the highly acclaimed hybrid powertrain (HSD). While diesel versions have had mixed fortunes in terms of reliability, the gasoline (which is our focus) and hybrid powertrains show exceptional robustness, worthy of the Japanese brand's reputation.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional reliability of gasoline engines (2.0L and 2.5L) and the hybrid system
Generous rear passenger space and trunk volume (547 liters)
Very reasonable maintenance cost for gasoline versions
Exceptional resale value (especially for gasoline and hybrid)
Significantly improved suspension comfort compared to generation 3

⚠️ Weaknesses

Capricious reliability of diesel powertrains (DPF, EGR, chain on the 2.0 BMW)
Slow and dated infotainment system (Toyota Touch 2), without native Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Imperfect sound insulation on the highway (wind and road noise)
Quality of some interior plastics (hard and prone to scratches)
CVT gearbox (Multidrive S) on the 2.0 gasoline engine which tends to make the engine 'rev high' under strong acceleration

🎯 Verdict

The Toyota RAV4 IV is an absolute rational choice, provided you choose the right engine. If you opt for the gasoline versions (2.0L or 2.5L depending on your market), you are buying one of the most reliable SUVs of its decade. These naturally aspirated engines, though lacking a bit of character compared to small European turbo engines, offer unparalleled peace of mind and negligible maintenance costs. The hybrid version (introduced in 2016) is the pinnacle of the range, combining this same reliability with controlled fuel consumption. However, diesel versions are to be avoided, unless you are a very high-mileage highway driver and the maintenance history is impeccable.

Common issues

Problèmes de transmission automatique (hésitations, à-coups) Medium

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km

💶 200 – 1 500 € (mise à jour logicielle, vidange, ou remplacement de capteurs/solénoïdes)

Tester la transmission à froid et à chaud. Vérifier l'historique des mises à jour logicielles.

Défaillance du compresseur de climatisation ou fuites du système Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 600 – 1 200 € (remplacement compresseur, recherche et réparation fuite)

Vérifier l'efficacité de la clim. Écouter les bruits anormaux du compresseur.

Dysfonctionnement du hayon électrique (bruits, non-ouverture/fermeture) Low

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 800 € (moteur, capteurs, vérins)

Tester plusieurs fois l'ouverture/fermeture du hayon électrique avant l'achat.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£850 – 1 700 (si nécessaire, non routinier)
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£500 – 950

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.