2011 Toyota RAV4: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

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.

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About the 2011 Toyota RAV4

3rd generation (2006-2012), late in the model cycle; 2012 was the last model year before the redesigned 2013 RAV4.

Toyota positioned the 2011 RAV4 as a roomy, versatile car-based SUV with a comfortable ride, manageable exterior size and strong everyday utility. Its sliding, reclining and fold-flat second row supported family and cargo use, with up to 73 cubic feet behind the front seats. Four-cylinder versions emphasized efficiency, while V6 versions delivered unusually strong acceleration for the class. FWD and electronic 4WD versions broadened its appeal for commuting and poor-weather driving.

The 2011 lineup ranged from the straightforward Base trim to the firmer-riding Sport and comfort-focused Limited. Sport stands out with a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels, while Limited adds Smart Key access, push-button start and dual-zone automatic climate control. Four-cylinder and V6 versions were sold with front-wheel drive or electronic four-wheel drive.

What changed, by category

Safety

Smart Stop brake-override technology became standard on Base, Sport and Limited trims. It gives braking priority when the brake and accelerator are pressed at the same time.

2011 Toyota RAV4 specs and features by trim

Feature	2011 Toyota RAV4Base0 in stock	2011 Toyota RAV4Sport1 in stock	2011 Toyota RAV4Limited1 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
Subwoofer
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Third Row Seat

How the 2012 Toyota RAV4 compares

The biggest change for the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is the late-year addition of the all-electric RAV4 EV in select California markets. Gas models otherwise see a light update centered on a new standard Bluetooth audio system.

See the full 2012 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2011 Toyota RAV4?

The main change for the 2011 Toyota RAV4 was standard Smart Stop brake-override technology on every trim. Otherwise, it carried over without a redesign or powertrain update.

Was the 2011 Toyota RAV4 redesigned?

No, the 2011 Toyota RAV4 was not redesigned. It remained part of the third generation introduced for 2006, with the next full redesign arriving for 2013.

Did the 2011 Toyota RAV4 get different engines or drivetrains?

No, the 2011 Toyota RAV4 had no engine, transmission or drivetrain changes. The gasoline lineup continued with four-cylinder and V6 versions, plus front-wheel drive and electronic four-wheel drive.

Was there a 2011 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?

No, there was no 2011 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Every 2011 version was gasoline-powered, and Toyota introduced the first RAV4 Hybrid for the 2016 model year.

Did the 2011 Toyota RAV4 receive a new audio system?

No, the 2011 Toyota RAV4 did not receive a lineup-wide audio upgrade. Toyota introduced the major standard audio-system update for the 2012 model year.