The Toyota RAV4 has long been a dominant force in the compact SUV segment, and the fifth generation, launched in 2019, solidified its leadership. For the 2020 model year, the 2020 Toyota Rav4 takes its winning formula even further, introducing the highly anticipated TRD Off-Road model and enhancing features across the entire lineup. This iteration of the RAV4 isn’t just a segment leader; it’s a segment disruptor, blending rugged capability with refined comfort and impressive fuel efficiency.
Introducing the 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road: Embrace the Trail
The most exciting addition to the 2020 Toyota RAV4 family is undoubtedly the TRD Off-Road model. This variant marks the RAV4’s first foray into true off-road territory, joining Toyota’s esteemed TRD (Toyota Racing Development) lineup. Known for their robust off-road performance in trucks and SUVs like the Tacoma and 4Runner, TRD now lends its expertise to the RAV4, creating a crossover that’s as comfortable on rocky trails as it is on city streets.
This isn’t merely an aesthetic package; the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is engineered for adventure. It comes standard with Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive (AWD), a rally-inspired suspension, and all-terrain tires. This combination of features elevates the RAV4 beyond its typical crossover competitors, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a vehicle that can handle more than just paved roads.
After establishing the RAV4 as Toyota’s best-selling model and the top-selling non-pickup small SUV in America for two consecutive years, Toyota continues to innovate. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 embodies a design ethos inspired by Toyota’s tough truck heritage. It successfully merges this rugged aesthetic with the core benefits of a crossover: a spacious and comfortable interior, responsive handling, a smooth ride, and outstanding fuel economy. This blend of attributes positions the 2020 Toyota RAV4 as a uniquely versatile vehicle in a crowded market.
Multimedia and Feature Enhancements Across the 2020 RAV4 Lineup
Beyond the exciting TRD Off-Road model, the entire 2020 Toyota RAV4 range benefits from enhanced technology and feature packages. A significant upgrade for all models is the expansion of multimedia capabilities. Android Auto™ is now standard, joining previously available Apple CarPlay® and Amazon Alexa compatibility. This ensures seamless smartphone integration for a wider range of users.
Furthermore, the LE and XLE grades, in both gas and Hybrid versions of the 2020 Toyota RAV4, now come standard with SiriusXM® with a three-month trial. This feature, previously standard only on higher trims, adds value and entertainment for entry-level and mid-range models.
Toyota has also reconfigured equipment and option packages to enhance value across the 2020 Toyota RAV4 XLE, Adventure, and Limited grades. The XLE and XLE Hybrid now feature a standard power driver’s seat for improved comfort and adjustability. Heated front seats, along with a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a windshield wiper de-icer, are now bundled into the Weather Package. Notably, this package is now available for front-wheel drive XLE models as well, expanding its accessibility.
The Adventure grade of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 gains a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adding a touch of refinement. It also now offers the Convenience Package, which includes desirable features like a power liftgate and power moonroof.
For the top-of-the-line Limited grade 2020 Toyota RAV4, the JBL® Audio package becomes standard equipment. This premium audio system delivers an immersive listening experience with an 800-watt amplifier and 11 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, including A-pillar horn tweeters and a ported subwoofer. The JBL® system remains an optional upgrade for other RAV4 trims, including the XLE Premium, Adventure Grade, TRD Off-Road, and XSE Hybrid.
Uncompromising Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 Standard on Every 2020 RAV4
Safety remains a paramount concern for Toyota, and the 2020 Toyota RAV4 reflects this commitment. Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0) is standard across all grades, providing a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. This system includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Helps mitigate or avoid frontal collisions.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Maintains a preset speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and can provide steering assistance.
- Automatic High Beam (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams for optimal visibility without blinding other drivers.
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Provides subtle steering assistance to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA): Detects and displays road signs on the multi-information display.
Higher grades of the 2020 Toyota RAV4, including the new TRD Off-Road, further enhance safety with standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB). Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking (PA w/AB) are also available as optional safety enhancements.
Form and Function Harmonized in the 2020 RAV4 Design
The fifth-generation 2020 Toyota RAV4 is designed to excel in diverse environments, from urban commutes to suburban errands and outdoor adventures. Built upon the robust Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform, the RAV4 adopts a bolder and tougher SUV persona while maintaining the practical dimensions of a crossover. It’s lower and wider than its predecessor, contributing to a more planted and confident stance.
The wheelbase and track widths of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 provide stability and confident handling, while optimized front and rear overhangs improve its capability on trails. The exterior styling conveys athleticism, featuring a strong front fascia and a dynamic profile with robust shoulders and available 19-inch wheels.
The high-strength unibody chassis of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 is significantly more rigid – 57 percent more rigid than the previous generation. This enhanced rigidity, combined with optimally tuned front strut and rear multilink suspension systems, results in both agile handling and a smoother, more comfortable ride. Toyota’s meticulous approach to chassis tuning involves a team of takumi (master craftsmen) who focus on ensuring the vehicle responds intuitively to driver inputs, even in challenging conditions.
Powertrain Choices: Gas and Hybrid Efficiency in the 2020 RAV4
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 LE, XLE, and Limited grades offer a choice between a gasoline powertrain and a gas/electric hybrid powertrain. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road grades are exclusively available with the gasoline engine. Both powertrain options deliver a compelling balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
The Dynamic Force 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower, is paired with an 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. This combination yields an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined for the LE FWD model. The transmission utilizes direct-lock up in gears two through eight to minimize power loss and ensure smooth, efficient gear changes.
The gasoline engine incorporates advanced technologies such as high-speed combustion, reduced friction, and a variable control system to minimize energy losses. This results in impressive thermal efficiency – 40 percent for the gasoline engine and 41 percent for the hybrid system.
The LE, XLE, and XLE Premium grades of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 offer optional All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Control and Rear Driveline Disconnect. This system can direct up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels when needed. When AWD is not required, such as during steady highway cruising, the system disconnects to optimize fuel efficiency.
For enhanced capability, particularly in off-road scenarios, the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models come standard with Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Rear Driveline Disconnect. In addition to distributing torque between the front and rear axles, this system can also actively distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels, improving handling both on and off-pavement. The Limited grade is available with either Front-Wheel Drive or the optional Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive.
The 2020 RAV4 Hybrid: Remarkable 40 MPG Combined Fuel Economy
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid models stand out for their exceptional fuel efficiency. The Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) works seamlessly with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine to deliver both strong performance and class-leading fuel economy. RAV4 Hybrid models achieve an EPA-estimated 41 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / 40 mpg combined, making them a truly no-compromise compact SUV option.
RAV4 Hybrid models utilize a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) paired exclusively with a new e-AWD system. This e-AWD system, a significant improvement over previous generations, can operate at all vehicle speeds. The rear axle motor proactively engages whenever rear torque is beneficial for maintaining stability or traction, especially in slippery conditions. The e-AWD system employs an independent electric motor at the rear wheels, eliminating the need for a traditional mechanical torque-distribution system and driveshaft.
RAV4 XSE Hybrid: The Sporty and Efficient Flagship
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid takes its place as the flagship model, combining striking design with sporty handling and exceptional hybrid efficiency. It features a sport-tuned suspension with firmer springs and shock absorbers, resulting in the most dynamic on-road driving experience within the RAV4 lineup.
Projector-beam LED headlamps, standard on the Hybrid XLE grade and above, provide superior illumination. The XSE Hybrid offers an exclusive two-tone exterior paint scheme, pairing a black roof with Blizzard Pearl, Silver Sky Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, or Blueprint body colors. Piano-black accents on the front end, mirror caps, fender arches, and lower rocker panels enhance its sporty aesthetic. The interior features exclusive black Softex® material with blue accents throughout.
2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road: Rally-Inspired Ruggedness
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road model draws inspiration from Toyota’s off-road racing heritage and the success of Ryan Millen’s Rally RAV4. It shares design cues with the RAV4 Adventure grade, including high-rise roof rails, large over-fenders, and aggressive bumper and grille designs, but with distinct TRD enhancements.
Building upon the RAV4 Adventure’s 8.6-inch ground clearance, the TRD Off-Road model features a suspension, wheels, and tires specifically engineered for challenging trail driving. Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Driveline Disconnect is standard, complemented by a suite of off-road handling technologies. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road also boasts a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, allowing owners to bring along more adventure gear.
The TRD Off-Road suspension is designed to improve body control and smooth out rough terrain. Exclusive red-colored coil springs are tuned for off-road performance, and the twin-tube shocks are re-valved and incorporate internal rebound springs for enhanced control. New bump stops maximize wheel travel and improve body control over uneven surfaces.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road rides exclusively on lighter and more rigid flow-formed 18×7-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels fitted with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail all-terrain tires. These tires feature a unique tread pattern and compound developed to TRD specifications, with a rugged, square-shoulder design for puncture resistance. They are also Severe Snow Rated, with open shoulder grooves for shedding debris, mud, and snow.
Multi-Terrain Select, standard on the TRD Off-Road, allows the driver to optimize traction for various conditions: Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, and Snow. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road also includes Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). The Multi-Information Display (MID) provides real-time torque allocation and slip-control data.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is available in an exclusive two-tone Magnetic Gray Metallic with Ice Edge Roof combination, along with dark gray front and rear lower fascias and standard front LED fog lights. Other available colors include Midnight Black, Lunar Rock (both with optional Ice Edge Roof), Ruby Flare Pearl, and Super White.
The TRD Off-Road interior features striking red stitching and trim accents. Seat surfaces are upholstered in comfortable and durable Black SofTex®, with TRD logos stitched into the front headrests. Exclusive TRD all-weather floor mats and a rear cargo mat are designed to protect the interior from dirt and debris.
RAV4 Adventure: Style and Capability for the Active Lifestyle
For those seeking a blend of style and capability without the extreme off-road focus of the TRD Off-Road, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Adventure offers a compelling alternative. It retains the 8.6-inch ground clearance and standard Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Rear Driveline Disconnect and Multi-Terrain Select.
Like the TRD Off-Road, the RAV4 Adventure grade can be equipped with an Ice Edge-colored roof and offers unique exterior color options like Blue Flame and Lunar Rock. Interior upholstery options include Black or Mocha-colored Softex®, accented by orange stitching and dashboard trim.
RAV4 Limited: Luxury and Refinement in a Compact SUV
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Limited brings a touch of luxury to the compact SUV segment. Its 19-inch alloy wheels and chrome accents distinguish it from other models, while the interior emphasizes comfort and sophistication. Standard features include a front-row moonroof and a heated 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory and 2-way lumbar support.
Technology features in the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Limited include a standard 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID), also standard on the XSE and available on other trims. The Digital Rearview Mirror, a first for Toyota in North America in 2019, is also available. This system provides an enhanced rear view via a high-mounted, adjustable wide-angle camera.
Optional premium features for the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Limited include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic moonroof. A hands-free power liftgate, activated by a foot wave, is also available for added convenience.
Interior Elegance and Practicality Across the 2020 RAV4 Lineup
Across all 2020 Toyota RAV4 models, the interior design emphasizes sophistication, modernity, and user-friendliness. The uncomplicated layout features premium materials and tactile controls. The center console incorporates a standard Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) for ease of use.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offers abundant storage solutions, including a large center console, side-by-side cup holders, and an open tray for small items. An in-dash tray within reach of the front passenger provides a convenient space for electronics and other essentials.
Rear seat passengers benefit from a spacious cabin with increased legroom compared to the previous generation RAV4. The rear cargo area includes a reversible liner and side nets for organization. 60/40 folding rear seats easily expand cargo capacity.
Advanced Multimedia and Connectivity in the 2020 RAV4
Every 2020 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with Toyota Multimedia, including SiriusXM® and Wi-Fi Connect powered by Verizon, along with standard Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The standard Audio system features a 7-inch touchscreen display for the rear backup camera and multimedia functions. Audio Plus upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen, while Premium Audio adds integrated dynamic navigation and JBL® sound.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 can be equipped with up to five USB ports in the front and rear rows, along with an optional Qi wireless charging tray. The available JBL® Audio system delivers a premium listening experience with enhanced architecture, new speaker designs, and improved tuning.
Comprehensive Safety Features in the 2020 RAV4
In addition to Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 includes Toyota’s Star Safety System, encompassing Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). Available safety technologies include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Bird’s Eye View Camera, Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS), and Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB).
Warranty and ToyotaCare for Peace of Mind
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 is backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering components beyond normal wear and maintenance. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles and 24-hour roadside assistance for 2 years with unlimited mileage, is also standard.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 continues to set the standard in the compact SUV segment, offering a diverse lineup with something for every driver, from the adventurous TRD Off-Road to the fuel-efficient Hybrid and the luxurious Limited. Its blend of capability, efficiency, safety, and technology makes it a truly compelling choice.
