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Toyota RAV4: XA40 and XA50 generations, hybrids and trims
Toyota RAV4 — one of the first compact urban SUVs and one of the best-selling in its class worldwide. In Lithuania, it's valued for its reliability and the fuel efficiency of its hybrid versions. We're looking at the XA40 and XA50 generations, engines, trims, and what to check when buying used.
RAV4 in brief
The RAV4 has been in production since 1994 and is considered one of the first compact urban SUVs. Over the years, several generations have come and gone, with the fourth (XA40) and fifth (XA50) most commonly found in the used market in Lithuania.
The RAV4 is praised for its reliable engineering, spacious interior, and good value retention. In Europe, since 2016, most RAV4s have been sold with hybrid powertrains, so diesel models are becoming rarer in the used market.
What sets the XA40 and XA50 apart
The XA40 (2013–2018) is a practical and reliable, albeit more basic, car. Before its 2016 refresh, it was offered with petrol and diesel engines, while the updated version got a new front end, Toyota Safety Sense safety systems, and the first RAV4 hybrid in Europe. It's a sensible choice for a tight budget.
The XA50 (from 2019) is built on the TNGA platform: it's sturdier, handles better, has a more modern interior, and features a new-generation hybrid powertrain. In Europe, it's almost exclusively sold as a hybrid, with a plug-in hybrid (Plug-in Hybrid) version following later. It's the most popular generation in the used market.
The sixth-generation RAV4 was unveiled in 2025, so there are hardly any in the used market yet.
Engines and transmissions
The XA40 in Europe most often comes with a 2.0-litre petrol engine (around 150 hp), a 2.0 or 2.2 D-4D diesel, and from 2016, a 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain (around 197 hp). Petrol and diesel models have a manual or automatic gearbox, while the hybrid uses a stepless e-CVT.
The XA50 is based around the 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain: around 218 hp with front-wheel drive and around 222 hp with AWD, where a separate electric motor drives the rear wheels. The plug-in hybrid has around 306 hp and can travel around 70 km on electric power alone (according to WLTP). There was no diesel XA50 in Europe, and the 2.0-litre petrol engine was only offered in a few markets.
What to check when buying a used RAV4
Toyota's hybrid technology is usually very reliable, but it's worth checking the condition of the hybrid battery and the entire system at a dealership or specialist service. Ensure that maintenance has been carried out on time and that there are service records.
Hybrids often use regenerative braking, so the rear brake discs can corrode — check their condition. For older diesel models, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and whether the engine is using oil or coolant — earlier 2.2 D-4D engines were known for head gasket failures.
In all-wheel-drive models, check the underbody and suspension. The ride should match the service records, and the body should be checked for painted parts and uneven gaps.
Trim levels
Toyota's trim level names vary by country and year; we list those commonly found in Europe.
Active
XA50Base trim with essential safety systems already included.
- Toyota Safety Sense: pre-collision braking, lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Often comes with a rear-view camera
Comfort
XA50Popular choice for added daily convenience
- Light-alloy wheels
- Often includes dual-zone climate control
- Often features heated seats and parking sensors
Executive
XA50Higher trim for comfort enthusiasts
- Larger wheels and LED headlights
- Often comes with leather upholstery and electrically adjustable seats
- Often includes an electrically operated tailgate
Adventure
XA50All-round rugged appearance
- More robust bumpers and wheel arch cladding
- Often comes with AWD all-wheel drive
- Distinctive interior trim
GR Sport
XA50 (later years)Sporty styling version
- GR Sport styling pack and dark accents
- Special alloy wheels
- Sportier interior trim
XA50 trim comparison
| Active | Comfort | Executive | Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | The rational buyer | Most families | Comfort seekers | Those who venture off-road |
| Safety systems | Toyota Safety Sense | Toyota Safety Sense | Toyota Safety Sense and more driver aids | Toyota Safety Sense |
| Most common wheel sizes | 17-inch | 17–18-inch | 18-inch | 18–19-inch |
| Performance tyres | Mostly front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive or AWD | Front-wheel drive or AWD | Mostly AWD |
| Relative price in the used market | Budget | Mid-range | Premium | Premium |
For most buyers, the best choice is the Comfort with the 2.5 Hybrid engine. AWD is worth considering for those who drive in the city during winter or on rough roads, while the plug-in hybrid only makes sense if you have the ability to charge it regularly.
Pros
- Reliable and economical hybrid transmission
- Spacious interior and large boot
- Holds its value well
- Packed with standard safety systems (XA50)
Cons
- More expensive than many rivals on the used market
- Engine works hard under acceleration (e-CVT)
- Interior materials are more basic than some rivals
Frequently asked questions
Is the RAV4 hybrid battery long-lasting?
Toyota hybrid batteries typically last a long time, and many cars cover vast distances without needing a battery replacement. However, it's worth checking the condition of the battery at a service centre before buying a used RAV4.
How does AWD differ from conventional four-wheel drive?
In an AWD system, there's no mechanical driveshaft between the front and rear axles — the rear wheels are driven by a separate electric motor that kicks in when needed. This significantly improves grip in winter and on rough terrain, but it's not designed for serious off-roading.
Which RAV4 generation to choose?
If budget allows, the best choice is the XA50 hybrid: it's more modern, safer and more economical. The XA40 is suitable for a tighter budget; in that case, look for a 2016–2018 hybrid or petrol model with a clear service history.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
