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2016 Toyota RAV4: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Toyota RAV4 is a mid-cycle refresh that updates its exterior and cabin. This is also the first U.S. model year for the RAV4 Hybrid.
About the 2016 Toyota RAV4
4th generation (2013-2018), mid-cycle refresh year and first RAV4 Hybrid year.
Toyota positions the 2016 RAV4 as a compact SUV built around everyday usefulness: easy to park, roomy for five, flexible cargo space, and available all-weather traction. It is not marketed as a hard-core off-roader; instead, Toyota leans on comfort, family-friendly practicality, and familiar controls. The new hybrid broadens that formula by adding much better fuel economy without giving up cabin space, while the SE gives buyers a sportier look and feel within the same practical package.
The 2016 RAV4 ranges from the practical LE, with a touchscreen and rearview camera, to the comfort-focused XLE, with a moonroof and power liftgate. The new SE adds a sport-tuned suspension, LED headlights and paddle shifters, while the Limited emphasizes comfort and technology with heated synthetic-leather seats, navigation and added driver-assistance features. XLE Hybrid and Limited Hybrid models pair a 194-horsepower hybrid system with standard all-wheel drive.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The first U.S. RAV4 Hybrid joined the lineup in XLE and Limited forms. Its 194-horsepower hybrid system uses a continuously variable automatic transmission and standard electronic all-wheel drive.
Styling
Toyota refreshed the front and rear styling, revised the rocker-panel detailing and added a shark-fin antenna. Inside, the RAV4 received softer-touch materials, revised storage details and added convenience touches. The new SE trim brought a sportier appearance and unique cabin trim.
Safety
The Limited gained standard forward collision warning, automatic braking, lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert also became standard on the Limited.
Tech
The XLE gained standard Scout GPS Link connected navigation with its upgraded touchscreen system, and its power liftgate became standard. The LE added standard roof rails and a cargo-area cover.
Structural
Toyota retuned the suspension and shock absorbers across the lineup for better ride comfort and stability, while additional sound insulation made the cabin quieter. The new SE received its own sport-tuned suspension.
2016 Toyota RAV4 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Automatic, CVT | Automatic, 6-Spd / Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas / Hybrid | Gas / Hybrid |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 23 mpg | 24–34 mpg | 23–34 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 30 mpg | 31 mpg | 30–31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 176 hp | 176 hp | 176–194 hp | 176–194 hp |
| Torque | 172 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft | 172–206 lb-ft | 172–206 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500–1750 lb | 1500–1750 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 38.4 cu-ft | 38.4 cu-ft | 35.6–38.4 cu-ft | 35.6–38.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.2 in | 37.2 in | 37.2 in | 37.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2016 Toyota RAV4 compared with the 2015 model?
The 2016 RAV4 received refreshed front and rear styling, upgraded cabin materials, more sound insulation and retuned suspension. Toyota also introduced the SE trim and offered the RAV4 Hybrid in the U.S. for the first time.
Was the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid new for 2016?
Yes. The 2016 model was the first RAV4 Hybrid sold in the U.S., offered in XLE Hybrid and Limited Hybrid forms.
Does the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every 2016 RAV4 Hybrid uses standard electronic all-wheel drive and a 194-horsepower hybrid system.
What is different about the new 2016 RAV4 SE?
The 2016 RAV4 SE is the new sport-themed trim, with a sport-tuned suspension, LED headlights, paddle shifters, heated synthetic-leather front seats and distinct exterior and cabin details.
Is the 2016 RAV4 a meaningful update over the 2015 model?
Yes. The 2016 is a meaningful update if refreshed styling, a quieter cabin, retuned suspension, newer driver-assistance features or a hybrid powertrain matter to you. It is a mid-cycle update rather than a complete redesign, so the basic fourth-generation platform carries over.
2016 Toyota RAV4 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Toyota RAV4.
4.3
2016 Toyota RAV4
(433 reviews)
“Very comfortable ride even at higher speeds. Really great gas mileage - usually over 400 miles per tankful of gas. Loads of legroom front and rear. We are very happy with both of our new RAV4s.”
“Hot lava exterior with nutmeg interior beautiful! Toyotas go and go and go. HATE that I can't open the back hatch from the inside without turning off the car!!!”