Toyota’s popular SUV, the RAV4, has undergone a full model change into its sixth generation , announced on May 21, 2025. The RAV4 is immensely popular in the SUV market, and as a new model, attention is focused on its evolution, but perhaps the most interesting aspect is its body size. We’ll take a closer look at the size, which is related to its maneuverability, interior comfort, and impressive styling. The long-awaited release date in Japan has officially been announced as “within fiscal 2025,” with a specific expected date of around December 2025 to March 2026.
So, this time, based on the size information of the new RAV4 that has been announced, we will thoroughly compare its size with various models, including the current RAV4 as well as popular rival SUVs such as the Harrier and X-Trail, to get to the bottom of the appeal and position of the new RAV4.
New RAV4 size after full model change
The exterior design has also been significantly revamped in this full model change. The front face adopts the “hammerhead” motif common to recent Toyota vehicles, evolving into a bold and modern look. The headlight design is the same for all models and features a sharp new approach that combines thin LED daytime running lamps with the main headlamp unit.
Now, let’s take a look at the body sizes of the newly announced new RAV4 by grade and their respective design features.
New RAV4 body size (length x width x height, wheelbase):
RAV4 CORE : 4600mm x 1855mm x 1680mm (HEV) / 1685mm (PHEV), 2690mm
Design Features: The car has an urban and sophisticated design, embodying the new “SUV Hammerhead” design. It features a grille with a detailed honeycomb mesh pattern and narrow plastic fenders. The low roof rails create a clean and modern atmosphere. The powertrain can be selected between HEV (hybrid) and PHEV (plug-in hybrid).
RAV4 ADVENTURE: 4620mm x 1880mm x 1680mm, 2690mm
Design Features: While maintaining the tough off-road image of the previous model, it has been further developed to be even more powerful. Wide, imposing plastic overfenders and protectors, muscularly designed exclusive aluminum wheels, and large, robust roof rails accentuate its individuality.
RAV4 GR SPORT: 4645mm x 1880mm x 1685mm, 2690mm
The ADVENTURE and GR SPORT have a total width of 1,880 mm, so caution may be required in some mechanical parking lots.
In terms of rear design, the taillight graphics and bumper shape differ for each grade, highlighting each model’s individuality.
Reference: Current RAV4 (5th generation XA50 series) body size (representative grade):
RAV4
- X/G/G”Z package”: 4600-4610mm × 1855mm × 1685-1690mm, 2690mm
- Adventure: 4610mm × 1865mm × 1690mm, 2690mm
- PHEV: 4600mm × 1855mm × 1690-1695mm, 2690mm
Regarding the size of the new RAV4, the CORE grade will maintain a size similar to the current model, while the ADVENTURE and GR SPORT grades will be slightly longer and wider, suggesting the possibility of styling with a stronger presence. The wheelbase will be the same as the current model at 2690mm, and while inheriting the excellence of the basic platform, the dimensions are likely to accentuate the character of each grade.
New RAV4 vs. Current RAV4: What’s the Size Difference?
Let’s compare the size of the new RAV4 with the current RAV4.
5th generation RAV4 Adventure “OFFROAD package
6th generation RAV4 (ADVENTURE)
| item | Current RAV4 (Adventure) | New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) | Difference from current model (ADVENTURE model) |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,610mm | 4,620mm | +10mm |
| Overall width | 1,865mm | 1,880mm | +15mm |
| Overall height | 1,690mm | 1,680mm | -10mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,690mm | 2,690mm | – |
| Before the tread | 1,605mm | to be decided | – |
| After tread | 1,625mm | to be decided | – |
| minimum ground clearance | 190-200mm | Undecided (expecting the same or better) | – |
| Minimum turning radius | 5.5-5.7m | Undecided (expecting the same level) | – |
Differences in body size
Compared to the current Adventure grade, the new RAV4 ADVENTURE grade is 10mm longer, 15mm wider, and 10mm lower. While the wheelbase remains unchanged, the wide and low stance is emphasized. In addition to this change in size, the sharp hammerhead design and aero parts and grille designs exclusive to each grade (a powerful, dedicated design for the ADVENTURE, a functional matrix grille for the GR SPORT) have been adopted, resulting in more distinctive and dynamic proportions. The character of the ADVENTURE and GR SPORT in particular is further accentuated by the dedicated parts.
- Comparing interior space: Since the wheelbase remains the same as the current model at 2690mm, it is likely that the basic interior length and legroom for both front and rear seats will remain the same as the current model. The increased overall width will create more room, especially in the shoulder room, and we can expect improved livability.
- Comparing the cargo space: The slight increase in overall length may result in some changes to the depth of the cargo space. The current RAV4 boasts a class-leading cargo space, but the new model may offer even greater usability.
New RAV4 vs. Main SUV Rivals: Size Comparison
Next, let’s compare the size of the new RAV4 with popular mid-size SUVs such as the Toyota Harrier, Nissan X-Trail, and Subaru Forester.
New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) vs Toyota Harrier
Toyota Harrier
| Specifications | Toyota Harrier (current model) | New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) | Difference with Harrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,740mm | 4,620mm | -120mm |
| Overall width | 1,855mm | 1,880mm | +25mm |
| Overall height | 1,660mm | 1,680mm | +20mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,690mm | 2,690mm | – |
The new RAV4 ADVENTURE grade is 120mm shorter in length than the Harrier, making it easier to handle. Meanwhile, it’s 25mm wider and 20mm taller, giving it a more SUV-like, powerful and active impression. The wheelbase is the same at 2690mm. It’s likely to be an attractive option for users seeking the tough image of the RAV4 while still retaining the refinement of an urban SUV.
New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) vs Nissan X-Trail
Nissan X-TRAIL
| Specifications | Nissan X-Trail (current model) | New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) | Difference with X-Trail |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,660mm | 4,620mm | -40mm |
| Overall width | 1,840mm | 1,880mm | +40mm |
| Overall height | 1,720mm | 1,680mm | -40mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,705mm | 2,690mm | -15mm |
Compared to the Nissan X-Trail, the new RAV4 ADVENTURE grade is 40mm shorter in overall length, 15mm shorter in wheelbase, 40mm lower in overall height, and 40mm wider in overall width. This makes it slightly more compact than the X-Trail, yet it stands out for its wide, stable form. It can be said that this size combines ease of everyday driving with a strong presence.
New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) vs. Subaru New Forester (6th generation)
Subaru Forester
| Specifications | Subaru New Forester (6th generation) | New RAV4 (ADVENTURE) | Differences from Forester |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,655mm | 4,620mm | -35mm |
| Overall width | 1,830mm | 1,880mm | +50mm |
| Overall height | 1,730mm | 1,680mm | -50mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,670mm | 2,690mm | +20mm |
Compared to the newly released Subaru Forester (6th generation), the new RAV4 (ADVENTURE) is 35mm shorter in overall length, which may give it a slight advantage in terms of maneuverability. However, what is noteworthy is its width, which is 50mm wider on the RAV4, giving it a very wide and powerful stance. The RAV4 is also 50mm lower in overall height, creating a sportier silhouette. The RAV4’s wheelbase is 20mm longer, which may also contribute to interior livability. While the Forester has a traditional SUV-like square shape that exudes practicality, the new RAV4 ADVENTURE has a more aggressive character that emphasizes design.
Features of the new RAV4 (full model change)
With this full model change, the new RAV4 is expected to further enhance the appeal of the current model.
- Evolved design and presence: The increased size (especially for the Adventure and GR Sport) has the potential to lead to an even more dynamic and powerful exterior design.
- Achieving both comfort and load capacity: While maintaining the wheelbase, the overall width will be increased, which could improve the interior space and comfort. The luggage compartment is also expected to continue to be easy to use as in the current model, while also being further improved.
- Clear individuality for each grade: Each grade, such as CORE, ADVENTURE, and GR SPORT, has its own distinctive design and size, making for a lineup that can meet a variety of needs.
- Latest safety features and powertrain: With the full model change, we can expect improvements to the latest preventive safety package, Toyota Safety Sense, as well as the inclusion of a more efficient and powerful hybrid system and PHEV system.
The new RAV4 is recommended for these people!
- For those who lead an active lifestyle: With more power than the current model and user-friendly interior space and luggage space, this vehicle is ideal for those who want to fully enjoy the outdoors and leisure activities.
- For those who care about driving performance and design: The wide and low stance and sporty grades like the GR SPORT will appeal to users who want both good driving performance and a cool look.
- For those seeking the latest technology and peace of mind: The fully redesigned car’s latest safety features and powertrain bring peace of mind and comfort to your daily driving.
- For those looking for a genuine SUV that is easy to handle even in urban areas: Compared to its rivals, the car’s exquisite size is not too large, making it perfect for those who want both ease of driving in urban areas and the presence of an SUV.
With this full model change, the new RAV4 is expected to further solidify its position in the mid-size SUV market and become an attractive choice for many users.
