6 of the Best Years to Consider if You’re Looking for a Used Toyota RAV4

Although the 2016 model year is still technically part of the same generation as the 2013 model, this year saw the Toyota RAV4 redesigned in a few different ways. A very important element is that this is the first year that a hybrid version of the compact SUV is available. Beyond that, the body received exterior changes, including a switch to LED headlights rather than the halogen bulbs used previously. This redesign also allowed the RAV4’s interior to become much quieter while driving.

In terms of reliability, the 2016 model is as good as the 2013 model, if not better. The number of recalls is down to just three, and it accounts for about a third of the problems reported on CarComplaints compared to its fourth-generation predecessor. The 2017 and 2018 models that follow are priced almost the same as the 2016 model and, in theory, any of them would be worth your time. What puts the 2016 model above, however, is the price. For the most basic packages, you can find a 2016 RAV4 for under $14,000, and if you want one of the high-end trims, you’ll be looking at something in the $17-18,000 range. Over the next two years, these minimum prices will increase significantly, with the basement surpassing $16,000. With all three model years being so closely rated, getting this discount is wonderful if it’s available to you.

(Featured image by W.carter via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY-SA 4.0)