2013 Toyota RAV4 Leaked Ahead of LA Auto Show Debut
Images of the fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 surfaced online days before its official reveal, showing major design and equipment changes for the popular SUV.
Images of the 2013 Toyota RAV4 appeared online just days before its scheduled unveiling at the Los Angeles Auto Show, giving an early look at the fourth-generation model’s styling and key changes. The leak confirms several rumours about the new RAV4’s design, engine line-up and equipment, and has already sparked debate among existing owners and potential buyers.
Major design changes and new proportions
The leaked photos show the 2013 RAV4 adopts a more angular, modern appearance with sharper headlights and a prominent front grille. At the rear, the tail lights have been likened to those on the Toyota Sienna, and the sloping roofline leads to a noticeably shorter tailgate. This marks a departure from the upright, boxy look of previous generations, which some owners say could affect boot space and practicality. Fender flares have been toned down, and the rear-mounted spare wheel is gone, replaced by an underfloor arrangement.
Inside, the dashboard gets a complete redesign with stitched detailing, though the combination of orange and grey materials has divided opinion. Some users on enthusiast forums have criticised the new interior for its colour choices and what they see as a cluttered design. The upper glove box has been replaced by an open shelf, and the lower glove box loses its lock. The electronic display now incorporates a bar-style engine temperature gauge, replacing the analogue needle, but only the driver’s window gets auto up/down as standard.
Engine options and technical details
Toyota has not officially confirmed the full engine line-up, but the leak and forum discussions suggest the 2013 RAV4 will no longer offer a V6 option. Instead, the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is expected to continue, producing around 170 bhp, paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. For European markets, a 2.0-litre 96 kW (1AD-FTV) diesel will be available with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual. All-wheel drive remains on offer for petrol models. The Sport trim is discontinued, and there is no mention of a hybrid at launch, though some buyers say they will wait for one in future model years.
- No V6 engine option for 2013
- 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol (approx. 170 bhp)
- 2.0-litre diesel (Europe, 96 kW/129 bhp)
- Six-speed automatic transmission (petrol)
- Front- or all-wheel drive available
Equipment, lighting and practicality
LED daytime running lights and HID headlights are visible in the leaked images, but there is no confirmation that xenon low-beams will be standard. The rear lights appear to revert to incandescent bulbs rather than LEDs. Some features from the outgoing model, such as the third-row seat and run-flat tyres, are dropped. The new tailgate design and sloping roofline could reduce cargo space, and the absence of a third row means the RAV4 will no longer suit larger families who relied on the occasional seven-seat option.
The 2013 RAV4 is set to compete with the Ford Kuga, Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, but with the loss of the V6 and Sport variants, it shifts focus towards economy and mainstream appeal. Toyota will release full details at the LA Auto Show on 28 November 2012. Until then, the leaked images have already shaped expectations and debate among buyers and enthusiasts.
For a look at the RAV4’s safety credentials after launch, see2013 Toyota RAV4 Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick After Crash Tests.
