The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA50) with mechanical all-wheel drive pairs the efficient A25A-FKS 2.5-liter “Dynamic Force” four-cylinder with an 8-speed automatic and a choice of two AWD systems. It arrived for 2019 with stiffer TNGA-K underpinnings, a longer wheelbase, and far better cabin tech, then added the TRD Off-Road for 2020 and detail updates for 2021. For owners, the draw is consistency: predictable handling, high safety scores, useful ground clearance, and genuine light-trail capability—especially with the torque-vectoring AWD available on Adventure, TRD Off-Road, and Limited. Running costs are low by class thanks to long service intervals, simple fluids, and robust hardware. The trade-offs are modest: the 8-speed can hunt for gears on grades, and road noise depends heavily on tire choice. If you want a compact SUV that just works in four seasons—with 3,500-lb towing on the right trim—the AWD RAV4 is a smart, low-risk pick.
Fast Facts
- Strong value: high safety ratings, solid resale, real 8.6-in (218 mm) clearance on Adventure/TRD.
- Capable AWD choices: standard “Dynamic Torque Control” or optional “Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD” with rear driveline disconnect.
- Tow up to 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) on Adventure/TRD; most other AWD trims rate lower.
- Watch for: early 8-speed shift quality (software updates fix most), recall completion, and tire noise on aggressive all-terrain rubber.
- Typical service: engine oil 10,000 miles / 12 months (0W-16); tire rotation every 5,000 miles / 6 months.
Quick navigation
- AWD RAV4 XA50 Overview
- RAV4 AWD Specs and Data
- Trims, Options and Safety
- Reliability and Service Actions
- Maintenance Plan and Buying Guide
- Driving, Economy and Traction
- RAV4 AWD Versus Rivals
AWD RAV4 XA50 Overview
The 2019–2021 RAV4 AWD sits on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform with a longer 105.9-in wheelbase that improves ride stability and rear legroom versus the previous generation. Under the hood is the A25A-FKS 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four (203 hp / 151 kW; 184 lb-ft / 250 Nm) using Toyota’s D-4S dual-injection and a high 13.0:1 compression ratio. It is paired to an 8-speed “Direct-Shift” automatic transaxle and, crucially, two distinct AWD choices:
- Dynamic Torque Control AWD (LE/XLE/XLE Premium): a quick-acting, on-demand system that can send up to 50% of engine torque rearward and disconnects the rear axle at cruise to save fuel.
- Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (TV-AWD) with rear driveline disconnect (Adventure, TRD Off-Road; optional/available on Limited depending on package): adds twin clutch packs at the rear differential to apportion torque left-to-right, enhancing rotation on gravel and stability on snow. Both TV-AWD and the simpler system pair with Multi-Terrain Select modes (Snow; Mud & Sand; Rock & Dirt) and hill-start assist; Adventure/TRD add downhill assist control.
Clearance is a genuine 8.6 in (218 mm) on Adventure and TRD Off-Road and about 8.4 in (213 mm) on most other AWD trims—useful for deep ruts or plow berms. Factory tires define character: touring-leaning 225/65R17 or 235/55R19 all-season sets keep road noise low, while the TRD’s all-terrain tires trade some quietness for bite. Brakes are four-wheel discs with electronic brake-force distribution and stability control integrated under the “Star Safety System.”
Cabin tech made a generational leap for 2019 with a standard touch screen and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 driver assist. Apple CarPlay arrived from launch; Android Auto rolled in for 2020. Practicality remains a highlight: a flat cargo floor, wide tailgate opening, adjustable deck, and standard 60/40 split folding rear seats. Cargo space is generous for the class, and towing is a standout on Adventure/TRD Off-Road (details below). For shoppers who prioritize reliability, safety, and all-weather usefulness—but do not need the hybrid—the AWD XA50 with the A25A-FKS strikes a rare balance of simplicity and capability.
RAV4 AWD Specs and Data
Engine and Performance (A25A-FKS, ICE)
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Code | A25A-FKS (Dynamic Force) |
| Layout & valvetrain | Inline-4, DOHC, VVT-iE (intake) & VVT-i (exhaust), 4 valves/cyl |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 × 103.5 mm (3.44 × 4.07 in) |
| Displacement | 2.5 L (2,487 cc) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | D-4S dual injection (port + direct) |
| Compression ratio | 13.0:1 |
| Max power | 203 hp (151 kW) @ 6,600 rpm |
| Max torque | 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) @ 5,000 rpm |
| Timing drive | Chain |
| Emissions/efficiency standard | EPA (U.S.) |
| Rated economy (AWD) | LE AWD: 27/34/30 mpg (city/hwy/comb); most other AWD: 25/33/28 mpg (8.7/6.9/8.4 L/100 km; 9.4/7.1/8.4 L/100 km) |
| Real-world highway @ 75 mph | ~29–31 mpg US (8.1–7.6 L/100 km) depending on tires, load, temps |
| Aerodynamics | Cd ≈ 0.32 |
Transmission and Driveline
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (Direct-Shift), AWD transaxle (UA80F) |
| Manual mode | Yes (sequential gate) |
| Gear ratios | 1st–8th approx. 5.25 / 3.03 / 1.95 / 1.46 / 1.22 / 1.00 / 0.81 / 0.67; Rev ~4.01 |
| Final drive ratio | ~3.18 (varies slightly by trim/package) |
| Drive type | AWD (on-demand), TV-AWD with rear driveline disconnect on Adventure/TRD Off-Road and available on Limited |
| Differential | Open front; electronically controlled coupling to rear; TV-AWD adds twin rear clutch packs (torque vectoring) |
| Modes | Normal/Eco/Sport; Multi-Terrain Select: Snow, Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Platform | TNGA-K (unibody) |
| Suspension (front/rear) | MacPherson strut / multi-link (double-wishbone type) |
| Steering | Electric power assist; ~36.1 ft (11.0 m) turning circle |
| Brakes | 4-wheel discs with ABS, EBD, BA; front ~12.0 in (305 mm), rear ~11.1 in (282 mm) |
| Wheels/Tires | 225/65R17 (17 in) or 235/55R19 (19 in); TRD: 225/60R18 A/T |
| Ground clearance | ~8.4 in (213 mm) most AWD; 8.6 in (218 mm) Adventure/TRD |
| Approach / departure | ~19° / 21° (package-dependent) |
| Length / width / height | ~180.9–181.5 / 73.0 / 67.0–68.6 in (4,596–4,610 / 1,854 / 1,702–1,742 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 in (2,690 mm) |
| Curb weight | ~3,450–3,620 lb (1,565–1,642 kg) by trim/wheels |
| GVWR | ~4,700–4,900 lb (2,132–2,223 kg) |
| Fuel tank | 14.5 US gal (55 L / 12.1 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume (SAE) | 37.5 ft³ seats up / 69.8 ft³ seats down (1,062 / 1,977 L) |
Performance and Capability
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph / 0–100 km/h | ~8.1–8.5 s (AWD, tire-dependent) |
| Top speed | ~118 mph (190 km/h) |
| 62–0 mph braking | ~125–135 ft (38–41 m), tire-dependent |
| Towing capacity | 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) Adventure/TRD Off-Road; typically 1,500–2,000 lb (680–907 kg) on other AWD trims |
| Payload | ~1,050–1,240 lb (476–563 kg) |
| Roof load | ~165 lb (75 kg) with crossbars, dynamic |
Fluids and Service Capacities
| System | Spec / Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | SAE 0W-16 (ILSAC GF-5/6); ~4.8 US qt (4.5 L) with filter |
| Coolant | Toyota Super Long Life (pink), premixed; capacity ~6.5–7.0 L (varies with HVAC) |
| ATF (8-speed) | Toyota WS; service fill by procedure (no dipstick) |
| Rear diff | Hypoid gear oil meeting Toyota spec; drain/fill by level |
| A/C refrigerant | R-1234yf (verify under-hood label); charge by weight |
| A/C compressor oil | ND-OIL (electric spec if equipped); quantity by label |
| Key torque | Wheel lugs ~103 Nm (76 lb-ft); oil drain ~39–41 Nm (29–30 lb-ft) |
Electrical
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Smart-controlled; ~130 A class |
| 12V battery | Group size varies by equipment; AGM on cold-weather/tow packages common |
| Spark plug | Iridium, long-life; gap ~1.0–1.1 mm (0.040–0.044 in) |
Safety and Driver Assistance
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Crash ratings | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (award applies with specific headlights); crashworthiness mostly Good |
| Headlights | Vary by trim/options: ratings range Good/Adequate/Marginal/Poor; best with upgraded LED packages |
| ADAS suite | Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 standard: AEB (vehicle/pedestrian; day cyclist), full-speed dynamic radar cruise, lane departure alert with steering assist and road-edge detection, lane tracing assist, auto high beams; BSM/RCTA optional or packaged; Rear Cross-Traffic Braking and parking sonar available |
Notes: Dimensions and capacities vary slightly by trim, wheels, and equipment; always verify by VIN and door-jamb labels for exact ratings.
Trims, Options and Safety
Trims (2019–2021, gasoline AWD): LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road (from 2020), and Limited. All share the A25A-FKS + 8-speed; AWD hardware and wheels/tires differentiate capability and feel.
- LE AWD: Value leader with Dynamic Torque Control AWD, 17-inch wheels, cloth interior, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. Tow rating is generally the lowest; best fuel economy of the AWD group (EPA combined ~30 mpg).
- XLE AWD: Adds convenience (dual-zone climate, additional USB, keyless access options). Still Dynamic Torque Control AWD. Popular for winter commuters needing AWD without off-road extras.
- XLE Premium AWD: 19-inch wheel option, upgraded interior materials, power liftgate, and available larger infotainment.
- Adventure (a.k.a. Trail in Canada): Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (TV-AWD) with rear driveline disconnect, selectable Multi-Terrain Select, 8.6-in clearance, roof rails, and unique lower fascias. Tow rating up to 3,500 lb with proper equipment; suspension tuning and tire spec better suited to rough roads.
- TRD Off-Road (2020+): Builds on Adventure with TRD-tuned springs/dampers, underbody accents, and all-terrain tires. TV-AWD standard; keeps the 3,500-lb tow rating. Ride is firmer; tire hum is audible on coarse pavement.
- Limited AWD: Top equipment grade (JBL audio, larger displays depending on year) with available TV-AWD package and adaptive lighting in some configurations. If equipped with TV-AWD, traction improves significantly in snow and on loose gravel.
Option Packages and Identifiers
- Cold Weather / Advanced Tech: heated steering wheel and seats, windshield wiper de-icer, panoramic monitor, parking sonar with auto braking.
- Tow Prep: auxiliary cooling and wiring, 4-/7-pin connector availability varies; check rear bumper cutout and harness under cargo floor.
- Quick tells: Adventure/TRD have chunkier cladding and higher stance; TV-AWD vehicles show a distinct rear differential housing with clutch packs. Build plate and axle code confirm hardware; VIN decode through a dealer can verify TV-AWD.
Year-to-year changes (gas AWD)
- 2019 launch: all-new chassis and interior; Apple CarPlay standard.
- 2020: TRD Off-Road added; wider availability of Android Auto; minor feature shuffles.
- 2021: lighting and multimedia updates depending on package; expanded active-safety refinements and additional connected services in some trims.
Safety Ratings and Equipment
- The lineup earns strong crash results, including IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when fitted with the better headlight packages. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 brings AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection, full-speed adaptive cruise, lane centering (LTA), lane departure alert, and auto high beams. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is widely available, while rear cross-traffic braking and parking sonar appear in higher packages.
- Child seats: Two lower anchors per outboard rear seating position and top tether points; lower anchors are accessible with removable covers. The center position relies on the adjacent anchors (consult the manual for specific limits).
- Service notes after repair: Front camera and millimeter-wave radar require static/dynamic calibration after windshield replacement, bumper repair, or alignment changes. Adaptive headlamps (if equipped) need aiming procedures after suspension work.
Reliability and Service Actions
Overall picture: The AWD gas XA50 is a low-drama ownership experience with scattered early-build complaints that Toyota addressed via software updates and campaigns. Most vehicles simply need routine fluids, tires, and brake service. Map any issues by mileage and use:
Common → Occasional issues (severity/cost are approximate):
- 8-speed shift feel / hunting (Common, low–medium): Symptoms include busy downshifts on grades, slight low-speed hesitation, and abrupt 1–2 changes when cold. Root cause: early TCM calibration and adaptation logic. Remedy: dealer software update (TCM) and reset adaptives; driving relearn. Inspect ATF temperature management if towing frequently.
- Infotainment glitches (Occasional, low): Touchscreen lag, Bluetooth drops, or CarPlay/Android Auto handshake issues. Root cause: early software builds. Remedy: head unit firmware update; ensure quality cables and phone OS updates.
- Wind or tire noise (Occasional, low): Roof rail crossbars and aggressive tires (TRD/all-terrain) add noticeable roar. Remedy: tire selection/rotation, rail repositioning, added door seals where appropriate.
- 12-V battery life (Occasional, low): Telemetry modules and short-trip driving shorten life in cold climates. Remedy: proactive battery testing at annual service; AGM replacement in severe climates.
Less common but noteworthy (check records):
- Fuel pump campaign (Medium): Certain 2019–2020 Toyota models—including some RAV4s—were covered by a low-pressure fuel pump recall. Symptom: rough running, warning lights, possible stall. Remedy: pump replacement; confirm with an official VIN recall check.
- Front lower control arm (Medium): Specific 2019–2020 vehicles had a recall for lower arm separation risk due to improper weld. Symptom: clunking/alignment shift under braking; in worst cases, separation. Remedy: arm inspection and replacement.
- High-pressure fuel line seep (Low–Medium): Customer Support Programs extended coverage for seep/odor; fix involves line/grommet inspection and part replacement.
What’s not a problem here: The widely discussed hybrid fuel-tank filling behavior pertains to early RAV4 Hybrids, not this gas AWD model. Likewise, hybrid-specific drive units, inverters, and HV batteries do not apply.
TSBs and calibration updates you want applied:
- Transmission/TCM updates improving part-throttle shift scheduling and cold-shift quality.
- PCS/DRCC camera and radar firmware for expanded detection windows and nuisance-alert reduction.
- Audio/multimedia updates for CarPlay/Android Auto stability and voice-command reliability.
Pre-purchase checklist (used AWD RAV4):
- Proof of oil changes every 10k miles/12 months using 0W-16; extra credit for 5k severe-service changes.
- VIN recall printout showing completion of fuel-pump and front-lower-arm actions where applicable.
- Evidence of TCM software update and any head-unit updates.
- Tires: even wear, correct size/load; AWD vehicles prefer matched sets with similar tread depth.
- Undercarriage: check rear diff seals, prop-shaft, and exhaust hangers; inspect subframe seams for corrosion in salt states.
- Brakes: measure pad/rotor life; look for rust-ridge from winter storage.
- Suspension: front strut mounts/bushings and rear links for play; TRD Off-Road dampers for leaks.
- Cooling: verify no coolant weep at water pump; hoses pliable.
- Alignment: straight steering wheel, no pull; request a printout.
Maintenance Plan and Buying Guide
Practical maintenance schedule (gas AWD, typical U.S. use)
(Always adapt for dust, extreme cold/heat, frequent towing, or heavy city duty.)
- Engine oil and filter: 10,000 miles / 12 months with 0W-16; 5,000 miles / 6 months if mostly short trips, dusty, or frequent towing.
- Tire rotation / brake inspection: 5,000 miles / 6 months; adjust to even out AWD wear.
- Cabin air filter: Inspect 15,000; replace 15–20,000 miles (12–24 months) or sooner in dusty/allergy seasons.
- Engine air filter: Inspect 15,000; replace around 30,000 miles (36 months) or sooner if dirty.
- Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years regardless of mileage (moisture control).
- Coolant (Toyota SLLC): First replacement at 10 years/100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 5 years/50,000 miles (80,000 km).
- Spark plugs (iridium): 120,000 miles / 12 years; check gap if misfire events appear.
- ATF (Toyota WS): “Lifetime” under normal service; for towing or mountain use, consider drain-and-fill every 60–90,000 miles with level-set procedure at temp.
- Rear differential / PTU: Inspect for seepage and level at major services; severe use drain-and-fill 60–90,000 miles.
- Belts and hoses: Inspect at each service; accessory belt typically 90–120,000 miles depending on condition.
- Alignment: Annual check (roads, potholes, tire preservation).
- 12-V battery: Test yearly after year 3; expect replacement in the 4–6 year window, sooner in cold climates.
- A/C: Performance check every 2–3 years; replace cabin filter regularly to protect evaporator.
Fluid pointers and capacities
- Oil: ~4.8 qt (4.5 L) with filter; new crush washer at each change; torque drain plug ~29–30 lb-ft (39–41 Nm).
- Coolant: Use Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) premix.
- Transmission: Toyota WS ATF; level by temperature with service tool—no dipstick.
- Differential/PTU: Toyota-spec hypoid gear oil; fill to level plug.
- Brake fluid: DOT 3/4; avoid mixing brands where possible.
Buyer’s Guide: what to seek/avoid
- Best all-rounder: XLE Premium AWD with winter package—quiet tires, comfortable ride, budget friendly.
- Snowbelt & light trails: Adventure or TRD Off-Road for TV-AWD, extra clearance, and 3,500-lb towing; accept firmer ride and slightly lower fuel economy.
- Tech-focused daily driver: Limited AWD with upgraded LED headlights and driver-assist packages; check that it has TV-AWD if that matters to you.
- What to avoid: Neglected oil changes, mismatched tire pairs on AWD, and vehicles missing recall documentation. Over-modified suspensions can complicate ADAS aiming and geometry.
Long-term durability outlook
Expect 200k-mile (320k-km) service life with routine care. The A25A-FKS timing chain, multi-link rear suspension, and simple AWD hardware age well. Biggest variables are tires and alignment; keep both in spec and the RAV4 stays drama-free.
Driving, Economy and Traction
Ride, handling, NVH
The TNGA-K chassis feels planted at highway speeds with a steady on-center steering weight. The multi-link rear helps mid-corner composure over patched pavement; Adventure/TRD tuning adds control on washboard but will pass more sharp impacts into the cabin. Cabin noise is mostly tire-dependent. 17-inch all-seasons are the quietest, 19-inch touring tires introduce a low-frequency thump on concrete joints, and TRD all-terrains hum above 55 mph. Brake feel is reassuring and consistent, with firm initial bite and predictable modulation.
Powertrain character
The A25A-FKS is smooth and eager above 3,500 rpm; it’s tuned for efficiency rather than low-rpm surge. The 8-speed favors tall gears; in Sport mode it holds ratios longer and responds faster to throttle inputs. On long grades with cargo the transmission may downshift frequently; tapping the shifter to preselect 6th stabilizes revs and temperature. TV-AWD trims rotate more readily if you feed throttle mid-corner on gravel; the vectoring clutches nudge the rear to help the nose follow your line.
Real-world efficiency
- City: 23–26 mpg US (10.2–9.0 L/100 km) depending on traffic and climate.
- Highway (60–75 mph / 100–120 km/h): 30–33 mpg US at 65 mph; ~29–31 mpg at 75 mph (8.1–7.6 L/100 km).
- Mixed: 27–30 mpg US (8.7–7.8 L/100 km).
Cold weather, snow tires, roof boxes, and all-terrain treads can reduce economy by 10–20%; TV-AWD’s axle disconnect minimizes drag when cruising.
Traction and control
Both AWD systems engage quickly from a stop on snow and ice; Snow mode softens throttle and shifts to curb wheelspin. TV-AWD adds measurable confidence on crowned, slick two-lanes where inside-rear torque helps the vehicle track with fewer stability-control interventions. Hill-start assist is standard; Downhill Assist Control (Adventure/TRD) holds walking speeds on loose descents. Stability control is conservative on pavement and more permissive in Mud & Sand. The system is not designed for rock crawling, but the 8.6-in clearance, approach/departure angles, and strong brake-based traction control make rutted fire roads and deep snow entirely manageable on appropriate tires.
Load and towing
With 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) on Adventure/TRD, the RAV4 can pull a small camper or pair of snowmobiles. Expect +25–40% fuel use on highway grades when towing and plan for longer passing distances; keep transmission in S6 to limit hunting and watch temps. Other AWD trims typically rate 1,500–2,000 lb, fine for a light utility trailer or pair of kayaks. The roof rack dynamic limit is ~165 lb (75 kg); account for the weight of crossbars and boxes.
RAV4 AWD Versus Rivals
- Subaru Forester: Standard symmetrical AWD and great outward visibility. The RAV4’s torque-vectoring AWD option, higher tow rating (3,500 vs. Subaru’s typical 1,500), and stronger projected resale give Toyota the edge for mixed towing and resale value. Forester rides softer and is quieter on rough chipseal.
- Honda CR-V (1.5T): The turbo CR-V feels torquier at low rpm; RAV4 counters with non-turbo simplicity, better off-pavement traction in TV-AWD trims, and higher off-the-shelf clearance. Long-term, the Toyota’s naturally aspirated engine avoids GDI-only intake deposit concerns; CR-V’s interior packaging is excellent.
- Mazda CX-5: Best steering feel and cabin finish in class. RAV4 offers more ground clearance, more cargo room, and a far higher tow rating (when equipped). CX-5’s ride/handling balance is superb on pavement; Toyota is calmer when the road ends.
- Nissan Rogue (2.5/VC-Turbo): Rogue has a plush ride and many features for the price. RAV4’s drivetrain is more proven, and the Adventure/TRD trims bring capability Rogue can’t match.
- Hyundai Tucson / Kia Sportage: Strong value, long warranty, feature-rich cabins. RAV4 maintains better resale and offers a broader aftermarket for off-pavement upgrades; the Toyota’s TV-AWD remains a standout if you drive on gravel or snow a lot.
- Ford Escape: Lively chassis and efficient turbo engines. RAV4’s simplicity and tow rating advantage (Adventure/TRD) appeal to owners seeking fewer long-term variables.
Bottom line: If you need snowbelt confidence, light-trail ability, 3,500-lb towing, and low operating risk, the RAV4 AWD—especially with TV-AWD—is one of the most balanced choices in the segment.
References
- 2019 Toyota RAV4 2019 (Safety Rating)
- Fuel Economy of 2019 Toyota RAV4 2019 (EPA Ratings)
- 2019 Toyota RAV4 Product Information 2018 (Product Specs)
- All-New 2019 Toyota RAV4 Breaks the Mold for the Segment It Created 2018 (Product Overview)
- Vehicle Detail Search – 2019 TOYOTA RAV4 2019–2021 (Recall Database)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or repair. Specifications, torque values, capacities, and maintenance intervals vary by VIN, market, model year, and equipment. Always confirm against your vehicle’s official owner’s manual and service documentation, and follow all safety procedures.
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