The term “Woodland” might evoke images of lush forests for most, and Toyota seems to lean into this with the 2024 RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition, cloaked in a fitting Army Green paint. This contrasts sharply with the Cement color of a previous Sienna ‘Woodland’ edition, which felt more aligned with a treeless town. This RAV4, however, visually embodies the woodland spirit, making a stronger connection to its namesake.
Woodland Edition: A Value-Added Package?
Toyota positions the Woodland Edition as a value-focused package designed to enhance the appeal of its lower-tier RAV4 Hybrid models. With a starting MSRP of $36,545, it sits comfortably in the mid-range of the RAV4 Hybrid lineup. Typically, achieving visual flair in a RAV4 might require upgrading to SE or XSE trims, but the Woodland Edition effectively elevates the base model with its exclusive Army Green exterior, striking bronze-colored wheels, and robust, all-terrain tires.
Beyond aesthetics, the 2024 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid Woodland Edition includes practical upgrades. LED headlights improve visibility, while standard all-wheel drive (AWD) provides enhanced traction. All-weather floor mats are a nod to its outdoor theme, and Toyota’s Smart Key system offers convenient keyless entry. The “TRD-tuned suspension” is also listed as a feature, suggesting some off-road readiness, although real-world capability might be limited. Standard Toyota Safety Sense features and wireless Apple CarPlay are also included, aligning with modern expectations.
Interior and Comfort: A Mixed Bag
The interior of the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition largely mirrors the rest of the RAV4 Hybrid range. Fuel efficiency remains a strong point, achieving an EPA-estimated 34 MPG combined. Fabric seats offer decent comfort for longer journeys, and the cabin provides ample space for passengers and cargo. Noise levels are well-managed at highway speeds, contributing to a relaxed driving experience.
While not luxurious, the interior prioritizes utility and durability, feeling robust and free of rattles even on rough roads. The design, however, can feel somewhat dated and uninspired. A significant drawback is the omission of a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Instead, the Woodland Edition features a basic, hard plastic steering wheel that feels notably cheap and unpleasant to the touch. This cardboard-like texture and visible seam detract significantly from the driving experience, as it’s the primary point of contact for the driver. This cost-cutting measure is a surprising disappointment in an otherwise well-rounded package.
Driving Performance: Competent but Not Thrilling
On the road, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition delivers a smooth and predictable driving experience suitable for daily commutes and family errands. The steering, while accurate and responsive, lacks feedback and feel, further hampered by the unappealing steering wheel itself. However, the RAV4 Hybrid can handle winding roads with surprising agility, maintaining composure at higher speeds.
Grip levels are adequate for typical driving scenarios, though pushing harder will induce understeer and engage the electronic stability control. For the average driver, the RAV4 Hybrid offers sufficient performance and handling, representing an improvement over older Toyota models. The inclusion of all-terrain tires and all-wheel drive provides added confidence in slippery conditions like mud or snow. However, it’s crucial to remember that the Woodland Edition is not designed for serious off-roading and doesn’t compare to dedicated off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner. Its 8.1 inches of ground clearance is the same as other RAV4 Hybrids and even slightly less than the RAV4 TRD Off-Road, limiting its true off-pavement capabilities.
Woodland Edition Aesthetics and Overall Appeal
The primary draw of the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition lies in its visual package, particularly the Army Green paint and distinctive bronze wheels. While the bronze wheels might be seen as trendy by some, they undeniably add a unique and eye-catching element to the RAV4’s design. Beyond these visual enhancements, the Woodland Edition offers limited differentiation from other RAV4 Hybrid models, especially considering its basic interior trim and that disappointing steering wheel.
The steering wheel alone is a significant drawback. Upgrading to a higher trim level with a leather-wrapped wheel would drastically improve the perceived value and driving enjoyment. While Toyota’s effort to introduce unique editions to lower trims is commendable, the cost-cutting in key areas like the steering wheel undermines the overall appeal of the Woodland Edition. It presents a visually attractive option, but potential buyers should weigh the aesthetic upgrades against the compromises in interior comfort and tactile experience.
Rear seats of the Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition, showing spacious legroom
Price as tested: $36,545
Pros:
- Distinctive Army Green paint and bronze wheels
- Excellent fuel economy (MPG)
Cons:
- Unpleasant, basic steering wheel
- Limited off-road capability compared to dedicated trims
