2017 Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4

Toyota’s RAV4 sits in that sweet spot for South African families who need more grit than a regular crossover but aren’t keen on the fuel bills or bulk of something like a Fortuner. You won’t find a new one in the classifieds — all 23 listings are used, which pretty much sums up where the RAV4 is in its local run. Prices are all over the map, from R129,950 right up to R559,900, with the median at R285,900. That means there’s a RAV4 for most budgets, whether you’re just after a sturdy school-run special or a higher-spec family hauler. Engine options cover both petrol and diesel, and Toyota didn’t skimp on transmissions either — manuals, autos, CVTs, and even semi-autos crop up, depending on the year and variant. You’ll see the 2.0 GX automatic everywhere, clustered between R209,900 and R299,950. If you need that extra grip for the odd gravel escape to Clarens or muddy weekend at Hennops, the 2.0 GX-R CVT AWD sits at R339,995 to R399,950. On paper at least, that AWD option is what the Ford Escape can’t quite match once you leave the tarmac. Most examples you’ll find are from 2009 to 2024, and with an average mileage of 136,911 km, these cars have seen real use — not just Sandton school runs. RAV4s hold their appeal because, while a Mazda CX-5 offers a bit more zing in the corners, you know you can get a RAV4 part in Worcester or Polokwane without sweating. That matters.