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Compact SUV · 1996–present

Toyota RAV4

The compact crossover that started it all.

The RAV4 helped invent the compact crossover when it launched in 1994, and it has since become America’s best-selling SUV. Six generations span a quirky two-door, a V6 rocket, and today’s hybrid-only lineup.

Shop 212 used RAV4sNewCertified
Class
Compact SUV
Body style
SUV
Model years
1996–present
Generations
6
For sale near you
212
Used from
$9,995

About the Toyota RAV4

Why the RAV4 matters

When Toyota introduced the RAV4 in 1994, “SUV” meant a truck-based body-on-frame wagon. The RAV4 built an SUV on car underpinnings instead (borrowing from the Corolla and Celica), and the result rode like a car, sipped fuel like a car, and still handled snow and dirt roads. Honda answered with the CR-V, and the compact crossover segment was born.

The name stands for “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive,” though front-wheel-drive versions have always been offered.

Buying a used RAV4

Every generation has a strong reputation for longevity, which keeps used prices high. The fourth generation (2013–2018) is the value sweet spot for many shoppers; the fifth generation (2019–2025) added a far more efficient hybrid and the 300-plus-horsepower plug-in hybrid. As with any used car, check the VIN for open recalls and get a pre-purchase inspection.

Toyota RAV4 generations

6 generations since 1996. Newest first.

  1. Sixth generation · XA60

    Current2026–present

    An evolution of the fifth generation that goes hybrid-only in the U.S., with a new software platform.

    • Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains only
    • New GR Sport trim
    • Larger touchscreens and new infotainment
    Shop 2026–present RAV4

  2. Fifth generation · XA50

    2019–2025

    Boxier, tougher styling on the TNGA-K platform, with excellent hybrid efficiency.

    • TNGA-K platform
    • Hybrid rated around 40 mpg combined
    • RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid (302 hp) from 2021
    • Adventure, TRD Off-Road and Woodland trims
    Shop 2019–2025 RAV4

  3. Fourth generation · XA40

    2013–2018

    Dropped the V6 and the tailgate-mounted spare, and added the first RAV4 Hybrid.

    • Rear liftgate replaces side-hinged door
    • RAV4 Hybrid arrives for 2016
    • Toyota Safety Sense standard from 2017
    Shop 2013–2018 RAV4

  4. Third generation · XA30

    2006–2012

    A big jump in size, with an optional third row and a surprisingly quick V6.

    • Optional 269-hp 3.5L V6
    • Optional small third-row seat
    • Second-generation RAV4 EV built with Tesla (2012–2014)
    Shop 2006–2012 RAV4

  5. Second generation · XA20

    2001–2005

    Grew up in size and refinement, and became a mainstream family choice.

    • Larger, more conventional styling
    • 2.0L, then 2.4L four-cylinder
    • Spare tire still on the tailgate
    Shop 2001–2005 RAV4

  6. First generation · XA10

    1996–2000

    A small, playful crossover offered in three- and five-door bodies, with a soft-top version late in the run.

    • Car-based unibody platform
    • 2.0L four-cylinder
    • Manual or automatic; FWD or full-time 4WD
    • Sold in Japan from 1994
    Shop 1996–2000 RAV4

Shop by model year

Jump to Toyota RAV4 listings from a specific year.

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Resources

Toyota RAV4 FAQ

What does RAV4 stand for?

Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive. Front-wheel-drive versions have been sold alongside AWD for most of its history.

Which RAV4 had a V6?

The third generation (2006–2012) offered an optional 3.5-liter V6 rated at 269 horsepower. It is the quickest non-plug-in RAV4 ever sold.

When did the RAV4 Hybrid come out?

The RAV4 Hybrid arrived for the 2016 model year. A plug-in hybrid (originally the RAV4 Prime) followed for 2021, and from 2026 every U.S. RAV4 is a hybrid or plug-in hybrid.

How many generations of RAV4 are there?

Six, beginning with the original 1994 model in Japan (1996 in the U.S.) and running through the current sixth generation that launched for 2026.

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