If you're looking for an SUV that's capable of towing a substantial amount, you may want to consider getting the 2020 Toyota RAV4. This crossover is one of the most formidable entries in the compact segment because of its exceptional fuel efficiency, comfortable cabin, and abundance of standard features. However, it also demonstrates relatively impressive work capabilities if the situation so requires. Check out this comprehensive guide to the towing capacity of the 2020 Toyota RAV4.
Performance Specifications and Features
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Before discussing the towing capacity of the 2020 Toyota RAV4, let's take a look at its performance specs to gain a better understanding of its overall capabilities. This SUV gets its power from a reliable 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with 16 valves and dual variable valve timing with intelligence. Mated to a smooth-shifting eight-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, this equipment can generate up to 203 horsepower. Toyota also offers RAV4 hybrid models that combine the same engine with an electric motor for slightly higher horsepower and torque ratings.
The Toyota RAV4's four-cylinder engine provides enough power for just about any driving situation, from daily commuting in the city to long road trips. Nonetheless, the engine isn't the only component that enables the small crossover to deliver better performance than many of its rivals. The RAV4 also offers three different drive modes to suit your driving mood and preferences: Normal, Eco, and Sport. Additionally, regardless of the trim level you choose, you can opt for the available all-wheel drive to improve traction on certain surfaces.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 comes with many other standard and optional performance-related features, including:
- Independent MacPherson strut front suspension.
- Trailing wishbone multi-link rear suspension.
- Active cornering assistance.
- Power-assisted 12-inch front disc brakes.
- 11.1-inch Star Safety System rear disc brakes.
- 8.4 or 8.5 inches of ground clearance.
- Stabilizer bar.
- Available Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive.
- Available Rock and Dirt, Mud and Sand, and Snow modes.
Towing Capacity
In its most basic configuration, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 has a tow rating of 1,500 pounds, which is enough for pulling a motorcycle, snowmobile, jet ski, light rowboat, or a couple of canoes. There are also some lightweight camping or pop-up trailers that fit into this weight category. With their slightly higher power output, the RAV4 hybrids are able to tow up to 1,750 pounds.
The best workhorse in the Toyota RAV4 lineup is the Adventure. This model can tow up to 2,900 pounds when it's equipped with front-wheel drive. If you opt for the available Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive, you'll raise the tow rating to 3,500 pounds, which is one of the highest in the compact SUV segment. With this towing capacity, you can transport a wide variety of small vehicles and camping trailers on your weekend trips, such as two motorcycles, two snowmobiles, or a larger trailer. Most camping trailers without heavy kitchen equipment or complicated plumbing weigh less than 3,500 pounds.
Towing Features
One of the reasons why the Toyota RAV4 Adventure has such an impressive towing capacity is because it comes standard with the Tow Prep Package. This package comprises a number of features that enhance its towing capability, including supplemental engine oil cooler, transmission fluid cooler, and an upgraded radiator.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 not only comes with capabilities and features that enable it to pull heavy loads with ease, but it also has a number of technologies to help you tow safely. The SUV offers the Vehicle Stability Control system to prevent it from skidding around sharp corners or on slippery surfaces. Additionally, it comes standard with the Trailer-Sway Control system. This feature monitors the object you're towing to see if it's swaying. If it detects swaying, it'll automatically apply the right amount of brake pressure and reduce the engine's torque output to stabilize the object.
How the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Compares With Other Small SUVs
When it's optimized for towing, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 can tow a heavier load than most of its rivals. The following compares the RAV4's towing capacity with others in its class:
- 2020 Ford EcoSport: Although it's one of the smallest crossovers on the market, the Ford EcoSport has a higher towing capacity than many larger SUVs. It can tow up to 2,000 pounds when it's equipped with all-wheel drive and the available 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at 166 horsepower.
- 2020 Ford Escape: With its standard 180-horsepower 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, the Ford Escape is able to pull only 2,000 pounds. However, it also has a more powerful engine in the form of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that serves up 250 horsepower, which is enough for towing up to 3,500 pounds.
- 2020 Hyundai Tucson: Most trims of the Hyundai Tucson come with a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower. This engine gives the SUV a tow rating of 2,000 pounds.
- 2020 Jeep Cherokee: While it's best known for its exceptional off-road capability, the Jeep Cherokee is also an impressive workhorse. It can tow up to 2,000 pounds with its standard 180-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and up to 4,000 pounds with its 270-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This crossover also has a 3.2-liter V-6 engine that puts out 271 horsepower, increasing its towing capacity to 4,500 pounds.
- 2020 Chevrolet Equinox: The Chevrolet Equinox manages only 1,500 pounds when it's fitted with its standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 170 horsepower. Nonetheless, its tow rating rises to 3,500 pounds on models that use the available 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
- 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport: The Land Rover Discovery Sport gets its power from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 246 horsepower and enables it to lug 4,409 pounds.
If you want to find out whether the 2020 Toyota RAV4 is the right crossover for you, don't hesitate to schedule a test drive with Kings Toyota. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right RAV4 for your towing needs and set you up with any additional towing gear you might need.
