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For 2022, the RAV4 gets a few small updates, but nothing that really changes how it functions for families. Most trims now come with slightly updated headlights, which are more of a styling change than a practical one. There’s also a new Cavalry Blue color option added to the lineup. On higher trims, LED fog lights are now standard,
- Lower anchors on both outboard seats: two full LATCH positions on the sides, easy to access and straightforward installs
- Top tether anchors across all three seats: you can run a forward-facing seat in any position, including the middle
- Removable headrests help with installs: makes it easier to get a secure forward-facing fit without awkward positioning
- Rear-facing fit is tight for taller drivers: with the driver seat set for me, I barely had clearance with an infant seat
- Forward-facing installs are easy: anchors are accessible and the seat went in securely without a fight
- Three-across is possible but very tight: not the easiest setup if you’re trying to fit multiple seats across
- Door opening is a bit narrow: doable for loading an infant seat, just not the most convenient with a heavier baby
- Hybrid option adds efficiency without extra effort: switches between gas and electric automatically, no plug-in needed, just takes a little getting used to while driving
The Exterior
Updated Design That Feels More Premium
Overall, I like the way it looks and it definitely leans more premium, but the proportions, especially that longer hood, might not be for everyone. The redesign gives it a more modern, slightly aggressive feel that stands out.
- Sharper front end: more angular and a little more high-end than older RAV4s
- Hybrid details: blue Toyota badging is a subtle but fun touch
Simple Side Profile With Functional Touches
From the side, it’s clean and not overly styled, which I don’t mind.
- Black roof rails: great for extra storage if you need it
- Subtle body lines: keeps it from feeling too plain without overdoing it
Busy Rear but Still Practical
The back has a bit more going on, but it still works.
- More angles and chrome in the rear: not my favorite view, but it’s fine
- Sloped rear glass with slight overhang: gives it a sportier look
Easy Size for Everyday Use
The shape is practical, which matters.
- Good height for kids and loading: easy to get in and out
- Compact overall size: manageable to drive and park
First Row
Simple Interior That’s Easy to Use but Feels a Bit Clunky
The first row is very simple, and I don’t mind that from a mom perspective because it’s easy to clean. That said, some of the design feels a little random and not super refined, especially for the price point.
- Lots of plastic surfaces: durable and easy to wipe down, but not the most premium feel
- Some awkward design choices: random storage spots and layout pieces that don’t feel super intentional
Big Buttons and Straightforward Controls
Everything is really easy to use, which I do appreciate, but some of it feels oversized and a little outdated.
- Large climate control knobs: very easy to adjust, but they take up a lot of space
- Infotainment feels a bit dated: not the most modern system compared to competitors
- Physical buttons for key features: heated steering wheel and other controls are easy to find and use
Solid Everyday Storage and Cupholders
There are enough places to put your things, and it works for daily life.
- Two usable cupholders: fit a standard water bottle without an issue
- Wireless charging pad: nice to have and easy to access
- Small center console: fits the basics, plus a couple of USB ports
Good Features Where It Counts
Even though the design isn’t my favorite, it does have the features most people want.
- Heated and ventilated seats: great for year-round comfort
- Auto hold feature: super useful for stoplights, carpool lines, and drive-thrus
- Strong safety tech: includes adaptive cruise control and other key features
Visibility Is Just Okay
This is one area I noticed right away.
- Limited rear visibility: the back window shape and headrests get in the way
- Digital rearview option: helps you see behind you clearly even with passengers or car seats back there
Second Row
This second row is where everything happens in the RAV4, and it’s a pretty typical setup for a two-row SUV. It works well for one or two kids, but space is something to be aware of as you start adding more seats.
Lower Anchors on Outboard Seats + Tether Anchors Across the Bench
You’ve got two full LATCH positions on the outboard seats, which is what we expect. There are top tether anchors in all three seating positions, so you can install a forward-facing seat on either side or in the middle.
- Lower anchors on driver and passenger side seats: easy to access and use
- Top tether anchors in all three positions: adds flexibility for forward-facing installs
Rear-Facing Fit Is Tight Behind a Tall Driver
Rear-facing is doable, but it’s a tighter fit than I’d like if you’re taller. With the driver seat set for me, I barely had clearance with an infant seat.
- Minimal space behind the driver seat: especially with a larger infant seat
- You may need to adjust your seat position: depending on your height
Forward-Facing Installs Are More Straightforward
Once you move to forward-facing, things get easier. The setup feels much more manageable and less cramped.
- Anchors are easy to reach and tighten: installs feel straightforward
- Removable headrests: help you get a better, more secure fit
Tight Three-Across + Narrow Door Opening
If you’re trying to fit multiple seats across, this is where you’ll feel the size limitations. It’s not impossible, but it’s definitely tight.
- Three-across is possible but very snug: not a comfortable setup for most families
- Rear door doesn’t open very wide: makes loading an infant seat a little harder, especially as your baby gets heavier
Third Row
Trunk
Trunk Space Is a Standout for This Size
This is where the RAV4 really shines. For a compact, two-row SUV, the trunk feels big and very usable. It’s one of those spaces where you immediately know it’s going to work for your day-to-day.
37.6 Cubic Feet Behind the Second Row Is Right in the Mix
With 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, it lands right in line with other top options in this category.
- Right there with CR-V (39.3) and Rogue (36.5): very comparable to the best in the segment
- Bigger than CX-5 (31.4): you’re getting more usable space for strollers and gear
- More practical than smaller options like Taos (27.9): better width and shape for real-life use
Stroller + Groceries Fit Without a Second Thought
This is the kind of trunk where you don’t have to think too hard about what you’re loading.
- Fits a full-size stroller easily: no rearranging or forcing it in
- Still room for groceries: this could handle a full grocery run, even a bigger haul
- Wide, usable opening: easy to load and unload without fighting the space
Folded Seats Give You Even More Flexibility
When you need more room, it opens up in a really usable way.
- 47.7 cubic feet with seats folded: great for trips or larger items
- Seats fold down easily: quick to switch when you need the extra space
Simple Storage That Actually Helps
It’s not overcomplicated, but it has what you need.
- Side storage cubby: good for smaller items you don’t want rolling around
- Underfloor storage + spare tire: practical and easy to access
Safety
Strong Safety Ratings With Trim-Dependent IIHS Award
The 2022 RAV4 continues to perform well in safety testing, and certain trims can earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick when equipped with the upgraded headlights. This is one of those details that matters depending on how the vehicle is equipped.
Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 Comes on Every Model
You’re getting a really strong set of safety features across the board, which I always like to see.
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Adaptive cruise control (full-speed range)
- Lane departure alert with steering assist + lane tracing assist
- Automatic high beams + road sign assist
Blind Spot Monitoring and Parking Assist Add Extra Support
As you move up in trim, you get more help in everyday driving situations.
- Blind Spot Monitor + Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: helpful in parking lots and busy areas
- Available parking assist with automatic braking: can step in if you’re getting too close to something
Front Seatbelt Pretensioners Add an Extra Layer of Protection
This is one of those features you don’t see, but it matters.
- Driver and front passenger pretensioners: built into the seatbelts to tighten instantly in a crash
- Works with airbags: helps keep you in position and reduces forward movement
Updated Headlights Improve Visibility on Higher Trims
This is one of the small but meaningful updates for 2022.
- Updated headlamp design on most trims: improves both styling and visibility
Two LATCH Positions Outboard + Tether Anchors Across All Three Seats
You’ve got a solid, standard setup when it comes to anchors.
- Lower anchors on both outboard seats: driver and passenger side positions
- Top tether anchors in all three seats: you can install a forward-facing seat on either side or in the middle
- Flexible for forward-facing installs: middle seat is an option because of that tether anchor
Rear-Facing Fit Is Tight Behind a Tall Driver
This is one of the biggest callouts.
- Very limited clearance behind the driver: I could barely fit a finger between the seat and the car seat
- Front seat position matters: you may need to move it up depending on your height
- Still doable: just not the most spacious setup
Forward-Facing Installs Are Much Easier
Once you move out of rear-facing, this gets more straightforward.
- Anchors are easy to access and use: installs feel simple and secure
- Removable headrests: helps get a better, tighter fit for forward-facing seats
Three Across Is Possible but Not Comfortable
You can make it work depending on your seats, but it’s tight.
- Very limited space across the bench: fitting three seats or sitting between them is a squeeze
- Not ideal for daily use with multiple seats: especially if you need to access buckles
Door Opening Makes Loading a Bit Harder
This is something you notice quickly with an infant seat.
- Rear door doesn’t open very wide: makes getting a car seat in and out more difficult
- Manageable, but not easy: especially with a heavier baby
Overall Car Seat Takeaway
This setup works really well for one or two kids and gives you flexibility with forward-facing installs. Just know that rear-facing space is tighter, and once you start trying to fit multiple seats across, you’re going to feel the size of the vehicle.
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