Test Drive: 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum

While it has been on the market for 20 years, the Toyota RAV4 continues to shine as one of the best compact SUVs for its features, technology and safety. Its smaller size makes the RAV4 easy to maneuver and park, yet there is still plenty of space for five adults, including rear seat passengers, who will appreciate the reclining seatbacks and the generous 37.2 inches of legroom.

All models come equipped with a long list of standard safety features including eight airbags, enhanced vehicle stability control and pre-collision driver assist features, which warns of forward collisions, detects pedestrians and automatically applies the brakes in emergency situations. Lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, hill start assist, a rear backup camera and dynamic radar cruise control are standard on all models as well. Only the blind spot monitor which also alerts drivers to crossing traffic in the rear is optional on lower trim levels, though it is standard on higher grades.

For 2017, there are five trim levels available on the gas model. Our test model was the new Platinum grade, priced at $36,150, which has more standard features than any other RAV4. Distinguished from other models by a full body color exterior and unique badging, standard features include all of those on Limited models plus a heated steering wheel, plush floor mats, ambient lighting in the footwells and Platinum-badged door sill protectors.

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum has a wide array of standard technology features which are available as options on other models. Those include a Smart Key that accesses all five doors, a kick-type hands-free power liftgate, Entune Premium JBL audio with integrated navigation and a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan as well as an overhead 360-degree view in both drive and reverse, along with a view of the curb to ease parking.

There are three trim levels on the hybrid version, including a new, sportier SE. One unique feature on all hybrid trim levels is standard, on-demand all-wheel-drive to ensure performance in all weather situations. The 2017 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid gets 34 city/30 highway mpg, according to EPA estimates.

Starting prices for the 2017 Toyota RAV4 range from $24,910 to $36,150, depending on trim level.

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