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2017 Toyota RAV4 Review: Platinum Trim Adds New Luxuries, but Infotainment System and Engine Options are a Letdown

Rating: 4.68
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The Toyota RAV4, introduced in the mid-1990s, is a compact crossover SUV. The 2017 model continues its legacy of practicality and reliability. Key trims include LE, XLE, SE, Limited, and Platinum. Its popularity stems from its spacious interior, good fuel economy, and strong resale value. New pricing ranged approximately from $25,000 to $37,000. The RAV4 stands out for its blend of utility and Toyota's reputation for dependability.
The Good

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 boasts legendary reliability, making it a smart, practical choice. Its comfortable ride and spacious cabin appeal to families. Fuel efficiency is a major advantage. The RAV4 provides excellent value for money and strong resale value, offering peace of mind and financial security to the buyer.

The Bad

The 2017 RAV4's engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. The infotainment system is dated and lacks some modern features. Some owners have reported minor issues with the automatic transmission's responsiveness. The ride can be somewhat firm, especially on rough roads. Interior materials are not the most luxurious in the class.

2017 Toyota RAV4: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Hybrid engine.
  • Horsepower: 2.5L 4-cylinder: 176 hp; 2.5L Hybrid: 194 hp (net system power).
  • Fuel Economy (2.5L 4-cylinder):
    • FWD: 23 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
    • AWD: 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
  • Fuel Economy (2.5L Hybrid): 34 mpg city / 30 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.5L 4-cylinder: Around 9 seconds
    • 2.5L Hybrid: Around 8.1 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs (for non-hybrid models).
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LE: Standard features include a rearview camera, 6.1-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Toyota Safety Sense (pre-collision system, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control).
    • XLE: Adds dual-zone automatic climate control, sunroof, upgraded interior trim, and alloy wheels.
    • SE: Sportier styling, sport-tuned suspension, SofTex upholstery, and unique interior accents.
    • Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, premium audio system, and a power liftgate.
    • Platinum: Adds a hands-free power liftgate, full body-colored exterior, premium floor mats, and unique interior trim.

2017 Toyota RAV4 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2017
Make Toyota
Model RAV4
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City OBU
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 2AR-FE
Engine Size 4L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2017 Toyota RAV4 Have?

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is generally reliable, but some frequently reported problems include issues with the automatic transmission, particularly hesitation or rough shifting. Some owners have also reported minor problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or slow response times. There have been some recalls related to fuel delivery and airbag systems, so checking the vehicle's recall history is crucial before purchasing. Long-term reliability concerns are minimal, but regular maintenance is key to preventing issues. Specifically for the 2017 model, some owners have mentioned premature battery failure, although this isn't widespread. The hybrid model generally shares the same reliability as the standard gasoline model, but the hybrid battery's long-term health should be considered. It's important to review service records and conduct a thorough inspection to identify any potential issues before buying a used 2017 RAV4. Overall, the RAV4 maintains Toyota's reputation for durability, but addressing any reported issues promptly can ensure long-term reliability.

How long will the 2017 Toyota RAV4 last?

With regular maintenance, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 can easily reach 200,000 miles or more and provide 10-15 years of service. Toyota's are known for their longevity. Long-term durability is a strong point, but neglecting scheduled maintenance, like oil changes and fluid flushes, can shorten its lifespan. Weaknesses over time may include wear and tear on suspension components, potential for rust in areas with harsh winters, and eventual degradation of the hybrid battery in hybrid models. Careful owners who follow recommended maintenance schedules can expect a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 offers a range of built-in tech and safety features. Standard features include a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Entertainment options include AM/FM radio, CD player, and USB port. Driver-assistance features are bundled into Toyota Safety Sense, which includes pre-collision system, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. Optional features, depending on the trim level, include a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors.
The 2017 RAV4 received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. These ratings reflect the RAV4's robust safety features and structural design. Higher trims offer enhanced safety through options such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, features increasingly valued by modern drivers. The availability of Toyota Safety Sense as a standard feature on all trims gives the 2017 RAV4 a competitive edge.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Super White
Black
Magnetic Gray Metallic
Silver Sky Metallic
Barcelona Red Metallic
Electric Storm Blue
Black Currant Metallic
Blizzard Pearl
Galactic Aqua Mica
Interior Colors
Cinnamon
Black
Nutmeg

2017 Toyota RAV4 Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 ranged from approximately $25,000 to $37,000 depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $16,000 to $25,000, varying based on condition, mileage, and location. The RAV4 holds its value exceptionally well due to its reliability and Toyota's strong brand reputation. Lower mileage, clean title, and a well-documented maintenance history will significantly increase resale value. Depreciation is relatively slow compared to other vehicles in its class. Color and specific trim level also affect resale, with popular colors and higher trims commanding higher prices.

2017 Toyota RAV4 Cost of Ownership

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel economy is good, especially with the hybrid model. Maintenance costs are relatively low due to Toyota's reliability. Repairs are usually infrequent and affordable. Long-term ownership costs are favorable compared to many competitors. RAV4's reliability results in less need for extensive repairs, and the availability of parts keeps maintenance costs reasonable. The vehicle is considered an economical choice for those seeking low long-term ownership expenses.

2017 Toyota RAV4 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2017 Toyota RAV4 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2017 Toyota RAV4 Recalls & Defects

Tires:temporary/Emergency Spare Tire
Recall date 2017-05-02
Recall no. 17v295000
Source NHTSA
Summary Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) IS Recalling Certain 2017 4runner , 86, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla IM, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius C, Rav4, Rav4 Hybrid, Sienna and Yaris Vehicles. THE Spare Tire AIR Pressure WAS NOT Adjusted TO THE Proper Pressure AS Stated ON THE Tire Pressure Label.
Consequence A Spare Tire That IS NOT Inflated TO THE Proper Value MAY NOT Perform AS Intended, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Gulf States Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Spare Tires, Adjusting Their Pressure AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 15, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Customer Service AT 1-800-444-1074. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS 17r2.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2019-06-28
Recall no. 19v503000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2017-2019 Toyota Camry, Corolla, Rav4, Sienna, and Yaris IA Vehicles Equipped With Factory-Installed Floor Mats. THE Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label MAY BE Incorrect. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence AN Incorrect Label MAY Lead TO Unintentionally Overloading THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners and Provide A Corrected Label FOR Placement Over THE Inaccurate Label, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 23, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371. Set's Number FOR This Recall IS Set19a.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery
Recall date 2023-11-01
Recall no. 23v734000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2018 Rav4 Vehicles. Certain Replacement 12-Volt Batteries MAY NOT FIT Properly IN THE Battery Tray, Allowing THE Battery TO Move and Contact THE Hold-down Bracket, Possibly Causing A Short Circuit.
Consequence A Battery Short Circuit Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Battery Clamp Sub-Assembly, Battery Tray, and Positive Terminal Cover, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed December 27, 2024, TO 2013-2014 Rav4 Owners. Additional Owner Notification Letters Will BE Mailed IN Phases, Phase 2 Will Begin ON MAY 14, 2025, and Phase 3 IN Late July 2025. Owners MAY Contact Toyota's Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE 23tb13 and 23ta13.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2017 Toyota RAV4 Insurance

Insurance for a 2017 Toyota RAV4 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2017 Toyota RAV4 Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 competes with the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, and Nissan Rogue. The RAV4 excels in reliability and resale value, often surpassing its rivals in these areas. The CR-V offers a more spacious interior and slightly better driving dynamics. The CX-5 provides a more engaging driving experience and a more upscale interior. The Escape offers more powerful engine options. The Rogue has a lower starting price.
Compared to the RAV4, the CR-V and CX-5 offer more modern infotainment systems. The RAV4's engine performance is adequate but not thrilling compared to turbocharged options available in some competitors. However, the RAV4 Hybrid provides better fuel economy than most of its rivals.
Similar alternatives include the Subaru Forester, which offers standard all-wheel drive. A slightly better alternative, depending on priorities, might be the Honda CR-V for its superior interior space and driving dynamics or the Mazda CX-5 for a more premium feel. However, for pure reliability and resale value, the RAV4 remains a top contender.

Ranks #76 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
76 2017 Toyota RAV4 (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Toyota RAV4 a Good Wagon?

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice for individuals and families seeking a reliable, practical, and fuel-efficient compact SUV. It's particularly well-suited for those prioritizing dependability and strong resale value. It is definitely worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, given its depreciation and proven track record. The XLE trim offers a good balance of features and value. Consider the Hybrid model for even better fuel economy. Before purchasing, inspect the vehicle thoroughly and check for any outstanding recalls or maintenance records. If reliability and value are paramount, the 2017 RAV4 is a solid choice.

2017 Toyota RAV4 Owner Reviews

4.68
Overall rating
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Jeff on May 22, 2024

Good car, bought car used and it handles very well.

Good car, bought car used and it handles very well. I like it. Drives well. Smooth ride. Test drove it before buying it. Will buy again.

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Ted on November 9, 2023

Great family vehicle and Reliable

2017 Rav4 LE FWD bought new.Excellent vehicle- best I have owned. Zero issues of any kind as far as reliability. A little soft around corners, but a nice ride. Very quiet on the highway, getting 32 mpg. 27 city. Lots of storage in the back. Still the original brakes all around with 82K miles.

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Bridget on November 3, 2023

My car is absolutely beautiful in and out. I love

My car is absolutely beautiful in and out. I love it. I am very happy with the gas mileage that I get. I certainly do recommend this vehicle.

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Jim Pie on May 7, 2023

Comparison 2017 Toyota RAV4 XLE vs. Honda

I purchased this car new for my wife. I drive a 2009 Honda CRV EXL, it has 135,000 miles without any repairs. When I went looking for a new CRV for my wife I found that Honda went to the small engine with turbo and a CVT transmission…..I wouldn’t buy this excuse for a car. When I looked in 2009 for a car, the RAV4 was my second choice. So I looked in March 2017, I bought my wife a new RAV4 XLE, FWD (front wheel drive), 2.5L, 6 speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 currently has 78,000 miles and hasn’t had any problems. This car is as close to my CRV as possible. When I bought it there was a $3500 rebate, so this car cost the same as my CRV did 8 years ago. Both were $26k out the door, incl tax, license, etc. The only thing I didn’t realize when buying the car was that it didn’t have a power drivers seat and a power lift gate. When I researched the car, I saw a video that showed both of these were included. Turns out that it was a Canadian model, not a USA model The car was made in Ontario, Canada for the USA. I live in a tNW suburb of Chicago, and the front wheel drive only model is perfect in this area. My wife’s old car was a 2006 Honda Accord EXL and she never had problems driving in the snow with it. Suggestion…..buy new, not used, negotiate on line before showing up at the dealer, don’t buy any add on’s, don’t buy extended warranty’s.

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DLB on June 13, 2022

50,000 miles a good car but NOT exceptional

I traded in my 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid that averaged 26 mpg and I really liked the size and excellent performance. The 2017 Toyota Rav4 Limited is not as well liked. I get 20mpg locally and 28mpg on the interstate. It is not as comfortable as well. As the expensive model, Toyota has even cut corners on a few things such as not even a light in the glove box, a navigation system that actually works accurately and a Bluetooth that doesn't sound tinny. I would like to stay with Toyota BUT next time I will be more diligent and check other options

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Rande on April 25, 2022

Short people, get a pillow.

I never had a Toyota and am happy I bought one. Sleek, reliable, nice looking. The Rav 4 has just about everything I need in a car. The only things that I dont like is; The seat does not go up HIGH enough, I am 5'2" and I have to put a pillow under my arse to see over the dashboard. The only other thing... I wish the back wiper had squirtys. It does not and the window gets so dirty.

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Steph on April 3, 2022

My Rav 4

I purchased my car used, for 16 years while I drove my Corolla to death, i desired a Rav. So I went to just browse one morning, the dealer drive me around. I spotted it, drive it, and no other cars. Period. It was a leased vehicle, so maybe why it didn’t have great interior,,, but lots of space. The CD player will only play one disk, cannot load more than one,,, the A/c is lacking some, as was my other Toyota cars, but reliability was and is priority. A woman alone, MUST HAVE , reliable transportation. I’m older than 65, so I wish for a little more than basics, but I would certainly buy a Rav again.

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Nora on May 19, 2021

this is the first time I have a car under my name

this car is very nice and they have a sunroof. it's nice I'd love it excellent condition and the price of this car is awesome

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AS on April 27, 2021

Decent

I love the room. could have a better paint job and technology. great safety measures and insurance cost. my 10 foot kayak fits inside. Priorities!

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Kenneth Dobbins on April 1, 2021

Good Car

The car has good space inside and drive well. It is very comfortable to drive and is easy to operate. The car work well for our family.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.