2023 Toyota RAV4 Cruiser: Quick review

I reckon the Toyota RAV4 follows the six degrees of separation rule: that you're always six people or less away from a RAV4 owner.

After all, the car is consistently one of Australia's most popular models, having been the third best-selling model of 2022.

Wait times today continue to reach 18-months for some hybrid models, proving the demand for the SUV remains strong.

The Toyota RAV4 has long been a staple in the medium SUV segment, and the 2023 update continues that legacy.

But in a segment that's more competitive than ever, how does the Cruiser hold its ground?

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Pricing and features

The Cruiser, once the pinnacle of Toyota's RAV4 lineup, is a luxury grade tailored for the road. However, the Edge has since claimed the top spot with a focus on off-road-centric features.

Priced at $48,910 before on road costs for the 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder 2WD version developing 127kW of power and 203Nm of torque.

Buyers also have the choice of a front or all-wheel drive hybrid powertrains.

RAV4 2WD Hybrid versions combines a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 160kW – and comes for an extra $2500.

An additional $3500, the the AWD Hybrid introduces an additional e-motor on the rear axle, raising the peak power to 163kW.

Fuel consumption on 2WD hybrid variants is particularly impressive, getting as low as 4.7L/100km.

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Choosing the Cruiser will get you:

All paint colour options besides the standard Glacier White carry a $700 price tag. The cabin is styled with synthetic leather trim on the seats, as well as a leather accented steering wheel and shift knob.

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Safety

The RAV4 was awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating; valid for all its models and powertrain options when it was rated in 2019.

It achieved a 93% rating for adult occupant safety, 89% for child occupant safety and 83% for its safety assist features.

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Every model in the lineup comes equipped with seven airbags, including dual front, side, curtain and driver's knee.

The RAV4 boasts a comprehensive list of safety features across all its variants through the Toyota Safety Sense package incorporated into the vehicle.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Cruiser safety features:

• Autonomous emergency braking (vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, junction)
• Seven airbags
• Lane-keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Traffic sign recognition
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Reversing camera with guide

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You'll also enjoy one year of free access to Toyota Connected Services, which encompasses safety and security features and remote capabilities through the myToyota Connect app.

Key rivals

There are no shortage of popular options when looking for a family SUV. The RAV4 continues to be a winning package but there are plenty of worthy competitors that may tick similar boxes, including:

• Mazda CX-5
• Nissan X-Trail
• Kia Sportage
• Hyundai Tucson
• Honda CR-V
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Subaru Forester

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Cruiser is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and practical compact SUV, with a touch of luxury.

Its blend of space, safety and Toyota's reputation for reliability make it a strong contender in its segment.

If you're seeking a family-friendly and economical SUV then you can't look past the hybrid RAV4. I mean, it's ended up in so many Australian driveways for a reason.