We understand that a compact SUV isn’t typically seen as the best off-roading vehicle, but the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road changes things. After driving the 2022 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, we can confidently say that this beast is better than you think.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is a specially equipped model for tackling adventures in the wild. It rides on 18-inch six-spoke matte-black TRD flow-formed alloy wheels wrapped in Falken all-terrain tires.
This Toyota RAV4 model rides a bit differently thanks to the TRD-tuned independent MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabilizer bar. The rear features a multi-link rear suspension with another stabilizer bar.
You can see the red coil springs with revised sporing rates to enhance the ride quality. Plus, skid plates protect the undercarriage. It has an 8.4-inch ground clearance.
The dynamic torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and Multi-Terrain Select systems include off-roading modes for Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, and Snow. You can turn off traction control, access hill start assist and use hill descent control.
We took the 2022 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road into the Pisgah National Forest to find some secluded trails. On the pavement, the RAV4 feels smooth and confident around curves. There is a bit of wind noise, but getting to and from the trails is comfortable.
Once we hit the gravel and dirt roads, we found that the ride got noticeably rougher, as to be expected. Larger bumps and dips are absorbed easily, but patches of gravel and larger rocks can be felt.
The RAV4 feels a bit heavy, but it also seems stable and well-planted around curves. The AWD system provides plenty of control to prevent sliding and slipping, even when traction control is turned off.
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine cranks out 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. More torque would be appreciated for powering through curves, but it’s perfectly fine for climbing over obstacles.
We were impressed by the digital gauge cluster in various off-roading modes. We mostly used Rock & Dirt mode and could see how much power was going to each wheel.
Yes, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is well equipped for adventuring. It has rubberized flooring and all-weather mats in the front and rear. We love vehicles that can stand up to red mud, dust, pets, and more. The mats are easy to remove and clean.
Plus, the RAV4 offers a good amount of storage. There are trays and cubbies placed throughout the cabin for storing your gear.
You can access up to 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 69.8 cubes total. If you need more space, the Toyota RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 and can be equipped with roof rails.
Running out of fuel wasn’t a concern. We got about 30.4 mpg during our week with the RAV4. It gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and up to 35 mpg on the highway.
Overall, the RAV4 felt capable and in control over steep, slippery surfaces. We didn’t find any rutted trails or streams to cross. It doesn’t feature a 360-degree camera or front-camera view, but those items weren’t needed.
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