The Toyota RAV4 fourth generation (XA40), built from early 2013 to late 2018, became one of the best-selling compact crossovers ever and still ranks among the top 5 most popular used SUVs in the United States.
Introduction
The Toyota RAV4 2013–2018 made its world debut in November 2012 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, with U.S. sales beginning in early 2013. It rides on the completely redesigned Toyota New MC platform, which increased the wheelbase to 104.7 inches (+2.8 inches compared to the previous generation), boosted body rigidity by 60%, and lowered the center of gravity. Overall length is 180.9 inches, width 72.6 inches, and ground clearance ranges from about 6.1 to 6.3 inches depending on wheels and drivetrain.
The exterior became noticeably bolder: sleeker headlights, a massive grille, flared fenders, and a clean rear design with the spare tire relocated under the cargo floor (no more external spare on the tailgate). Cargo space grew to 38.4 cu ft behind the rear seats (VDA equivalent) and up to 73.4 cu ft with seats folded.
What’s New Compared to the Third Generation
- All-new Toyota New MC platform (replacing the old MC)
- Completely redesigned exterior and interior
- Larger dimensions and wheelbase (+4 inches longer overall, +2.8 inches wheelbase)
- Spare tire moved under the cargo floor
- New engines: 2.0L 3ZR-FAE (176 hp in some markets, often badged as 2.5L in US), 2.5L 2AR-FE (176–179 hp), and from 2016 the 2.5L hybrid system (194–200 hp combined)
- 6-speed automatic replacing older 4- and 5-speed units (CVT on some 2.0L and hybrid models)
- Dynamic Torque Control AWD system
- Toyota Safety Sense package (from 2016 facelift): adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure alert & steering assist
- Substantially better sound insulation and higher-quality interior materials
The 2015–2016 facelift brought updated headlights, grille, bumpers, and expanded availability of advanced safety features.
U.S. Used Market (as of late 2025 / early 2026)
On the American used market the Toyota RAV4 XA40 remains extremely popular. Thousands of listings are active on platforms like Autotrader, Cars.com, and CarGurus at any given time.
Approximate market price range in the United States (2025–2026):
- 2013–2014, 2.5L FWD – $10,500–$14,000
- 2014–2016, 2.5L AWD – $13,000–$17,500
- 2016–2018 facelift, 2.5L gas AWD – $16,500–$22,000
- 2016–2018 Hybrid AWD – $19,000–$26,000
Most in-demand configurations on the U.S. market:
- 2.5L gasoline (176–179 hp) + 6-speed automatic + AWD
- Hybrid 2.5L AWD-i (from 2016) – rapidly growing popularity due to excellent fuel economy and proven battery longevity
Common Trim Levels on the U.S. Market
- LE / XLE — base and mid-level: air conditioning, cloth seats, 17-inch alloy wheels (XLE), backup camera, 6–8 airbags, stability control, heated front seats (XLE), touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on later models.
- XLE / Limited — very common: dual-zone climate control, power driver’s seat, blind-spot monitoring (higher trims), 18-inch wheels, keyless entry & push-button start, moonroof.
- Limited / Platinum (later years) — leather upholstery, heated & ventilated front seats, navigation, JBL premium audio, power liftgate, adaptive cruise and full Toyota Safety Sense P.
- Hybrid Limited / XSE Hybrid — top hybrid trims with premium features, EV mode, better fuel economy (around 34–40 mpg combined).
Most used examples available today are XLE and Limited trims, many imported from high-volume states or originally sold across the U.S.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota RAV4 fourth generation (2013–2018) is still an excellent choice for American buyers looking for:
- A dependable, family-friendly compact crossover for daily driving;
- Good capability in snow, light trails and poor weather (AWD versions);
- Low ownership costs, especially the hybrid;
- Strong resale value – it depreciates slower than most rivals.
Why this generation still makes sense in 2026:
- Proven naturally aspirated engines and conventional automatic transmissions;
- Excellent rust resistance (especially northern and rust-belt examples with good history);
- Huge parts availability and nationwide service network;
- Hybrid models frequently exceed 250,000–350,000 miles with original battery.
Things to check when buying:
- Full service history (especially transmission fluid changes and AWD coupler condition);
- Timing chain stretch on 2.0/2.5L gas engines (usually after 150,000–200,000 miles);
- Hybrid high-voltage battery health (most last 200,000+ miles, but get it scanned);
- Signs of previous accident damage or flood history (common on used market).
If you want a practical, ultra-reliable, and still very competitive used compact SUV at a reasonable price — the Toyota RAV4 2013–2018 continues to be one of the smartest picks on the American market in 2026.
