2010 Toyota RAV4: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2010 Toyota RAV4 has no major changes. The main update is minor: Limited models receive added chrome accents around the parking brake and cabin vents.

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About the 2010 Toyota RAV4

3rd generation (2006-2012), late-cycle year after the 2009 refresh.

Toyota positioned the RAV4 as a roomy, car-based compact SUV that mixed easy daily driving with real family usefulness. Its identity centered on flexibility: a comfortable ride, a roomy back seat, strong cargo space, and, in this generation, a rare V6 option plus an optional small third row on some versions. Against rivals, the RAV4 leaned on Toyota durability, practical packaging, and stronger performance choices than many compact crossovers of its time.

The 2010 RAV4 lineup ranges from the practical Base to the more athletic-looking Sport and comfort-focused Limited. Sport models have 18-inch alloy wheels and a firmer suspension, while Limited models add push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control and heated power-folding mirrors.

What changed, by category

Styling

Limited models add chrome accents around the parking brake and cabin vents. The rest of the RAV4 receives no broad styling redesign.

2010 Toyota RAV4 specs and features by trim

Feature	2010 Toyota RAV4Base0 in stock	2010 Toyota RAV4Sport1 in stock	2010 Toyota RAV4Limited2 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive
Drivetrain	4WD / 2WD	4WD / 2WD	2WD / 4WD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	19–21 mpg	19–21 mpg	19–22 mpg
MPG Highway	27 mpg	27 mpg	26–28 mpg
Horsepower	179–269 hp	179–269 hp	179–269 hp
Torque	172–246 lb-ft	172–246 lb-ft	172–246 lb-ft
Max Towing	1500 lb	1500 lb	3500 lb
Trunk/Cargo	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	38.3 in	38.3 in	38.3 in
Seats	7	5	7
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Hill Descent Control
Hill Start Assist
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Privacy Glass
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Remote Start
Third Row Seat

How the 2011 Toyota RAV4 compares

The 2011 Toyota RAV4 was largely a carryover, and its most important change was standard Smart Stop brake-override technology across the lineup. There was no redesign or powertrain update.

See the full 2011 changes

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2010 Toyota RAV4 redesigned?

No. The 2010 RAV4 is a lightly updated version of the third-generation model, following the 2009 refresh. Its only clearly identified product change is extra chrome cabin trim on Limited models.

What changed on the 2010 RAV4 Limited?

The 2010 RAV4 Limited adds chrome accents around the parking brake and cabin vents. Its comfort-focused equipment still includes push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control and heated power-folding mirrors.

Does the 2010 Toyota RAV4 use the same engines as the 2009 model?

Yes. The 2010 RAV4 keeps the 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a four-speed automatic and the 3.5-liter V6 with a five-speed automatic.

Did the RAV4 trim lineup change for 2010?

No. The 2010 RAV4 keeps the Base, Sport and Limited trim structure. Base emphasizes everyday utility, Sport adds a firmer suspension and 18-inch wheels, and Limited focuses on comfort and convenience.

Is the 2010 RAV4 a major upgrade over the 2009 model?

No. The 2010 RAV4 is very close to the 2009 model, with the same trim lineup and engines. The main difference is the added chrome cabin accents on Limited models.