The 2020 Toyota RAV4 covers more bases this year with smartphone compatibility and tough-looking off-road trims.
Pros Great looks New smartphone compatibility Tough-looking TRD Off-road Good cargo space Standard active safety features
Cons Compromised interior Off-road hardware more about looks Expensive top trims Cheap-feeling plastics
Toyota is introducing the TRD Off-Road model for 2020, which comes with unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, a TRD Off-Road suspension kit with red coil springs, and plenty of TRD logos dotting the interior and exterior. Elsewhere in the lineup, Android Auto capability becomes a standard feature as does SiriusXM satellite radio; XLE models now come with a power-adjustable driver's seat but lose the standard moonroof, which becomes part of the optional Convenience package. The mid-range Adventure model gains a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, but that model's power liftgate is now optional. Limited trims now come with the premium JBL audio system as standard.
Pros Rugged styling, available hybrid model, plenty of standard safety tech.
Cons Overly spartan base model, rough-edged engine noise, mundane driving dynamics.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.New TRD Off-Road trim,Android Auto added to Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility.Power driver's seat now standard on XLE grade.
Pros Quiet interior and comfortable ride quality Abundant cargo and passenger space Controls are easy to use
Cons Lackluster power from base powertrain No other engines available Uncomfortable front passenger seat Vague steering means you'll sometimes misjudge your inputs
Toyota will likely position the Corolla Cross between the C-HR small SUV and RAV4 medium SUV, and of course given the name, it’ll sit in a triangular pocket between those two SUVS and as a wagon-alternative to the Corolla sedan and hatch. Key competitors will include small SUVs like the Hyundai Kona, Nissan Qashqai, Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30 amongst others in the segment. Don’t expect to see the Corolla's head-up display. There’s no mention of it overseas, or premium audio for that matter with no mention of JBL-supplied audio as seen in other Toyota models.
In terms of size, the small crossover slots between the subcompact C-HR and the compact RAV4. Oddly enough, it bears little resemblance to the rest of the Corolla family. With sharp headlights and more rounded proportions than the RAV4, the design is pleasing, albeit conventional. Like the RAV4, the Corolla Cross is designed with practicality in mind. The automaker promises large door openings for easy entry and exit, an elevated driving position, and a spacious interior. Toyota is aiming for class-leading luggage space in the Thai market. Comfort and convenience features include a 9.0-inch touchscreen, a power moonroof, rear USB outlets, LED headlights and taillights, a foot-activated liftgate, and more.
