The Toyota RAV4 IV (facelift 2015): A Global Crossover Evolution
The Toyota RAV4, a pioneer in the compact crossover SUV segment, received a significant facelift for its fourth generation (XA40) in 2015. This mid-cycle refresh aimed to keep the popular model competitive in a rapidly expanding and fiercely contested global market. While North America primarily received gasoline-powered variants, the European and Asian markets, among others, benefited from a range of powertrain options, including the highly efficient Toyota RAV4 IV (facelift 2015) 2.0 D-4D (143 Hp) diesel engine. This particular variant, produced from 2015 to 2018, embodied Toyota’s commitment to offering diverse powerplants tailored to regional demands, combining robust performance with impressive fuel economy. As a five-door, five-seat SUV, it continued the RAV4’s legacy of practical utility, comfortable ride, and Toyota’s renowned reliability, making it a compelling choice for families and adventurers alike in its target markets.
Powertrain and Performance Characteristics
At the heart of this specific Toyota RAV4 IV (facelift 2015) model was the 2.0-liter D-4D diesel engine, designated with the internal code 2WW. This inline four-cylinder unit, transversely mounted at the front, was engineered for a balance of power, torque, and efficiency. With a displacement of 1995 cubic centimeters (121.74 cubic inches), it delivered a respectable 143 horsepower at 4000 rpm. More critically for a diesel, it produced a substantial 236.02 lb.-ft. (320 Nm) of torque, available across a broad and usable range from 1750 to 2250 rpm. This low-end torque was instrumental in providing strong acceleration from a standstill and effortless cruising, particularly beneficial for highway driving and when the vehicle was loaded or towing.
The engine’s advanced design featured a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, ensuring efficient air intake and exhaust. Fuel delivery was handled by a sophisticated common rail direct injection system, precisely metering fuel for optimal combustion. Further enhancing performance and efficiency was a turbocharger coupled with an intercooler, which boosted air density for improved power output. The engine’s compression ratio stood at 16.5:1, typical for a modern diesel.
Performance figures for the 2.0 D-4D variant were competitive for its class. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 9.1 seconds, with a top speed reaching 121.17 mph (195 km/h). Power was transmitted to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, offering engaging control for the driver.
Fuel economy was a major highlight, especially in markets where diesel prices and efficiency are paramount. The combined cycle fuel consumption was an impressive 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers, translating to approximately 50 US miles per gallon. Urban driving yielded 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg), while extra-urban cruising achieved an outstanding 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg). These figures were complemented by relatively low CO2 emissions of 123 g/km, allowing the vehicle to meet the stringent Euro 6 W emission standard, underscoring its environmental consciousness for the era. The RAV4’s weight-to-power ratio of 11.2 kg/Hp (89.1 Hp/tonne) further contributed to its agile and economical driving dynamics.
Exterior Refresh and Interior Refinements
The 2015 facelift for the RAV4 IV brought a refreshed aesthetic that enhanced its road presence and modernized its appeal. The exterior updates were most notable at the front, featuring a redesigned grille, sleeker headlights incorporating LED daytime running lights, and a more aggressive bumper. These changes gave the RAV4 a sharper, more contemporary face. At the rear, revised taillights with LED elements and a restyled bumper contributed to a more refined and cohesive look. The overall body type remained a practical SUV, with five doors providing easy access to both front and rear cabins.
Inside, the facelift aimed to elevate the perceived quality and comfort. Toyota introduced improved materials, updated trim accents, and a revised instrument panel. While specific infotainment details are not in the provided data, typically, such facelifts include upgrades to the touchscreen interface, connectivity options, and potentially advanced driver-assistance systems for a modern vehicle of this period. The seating configuration remained a comfortable setup for five occupants, with supportive seats designed for longer journeys.
Practicality was a cornerstone of the RAV4’s design. The vehicle offered a generous minimum trunk space of 547 liters (19.32 cubic feet), which could be expanded to a substantial 1735 liters (61.27 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down, making it highly versatile for cargo. The overall dimensions—length of 181.3 inches (4605 mm), width of 72.64 inches (1845 mm), and height of 65.94 inches (1675 mm)—provided a spacious interior without making the vehicle overly cumbersome for urban environments. A wheelbase of 104.72 inches (2660 mm) contributed to a stable ride.
The chassis and suspension setup featured an independent McPherson strut system at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality and competent handling. Braking power was supplied by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Electric power steering offered ease of maneuverability, with a minimum turning circle ranging from 34.78 to 36.75 feet. Standard tire size was 225/65 R17 H, mounted on 6.5J or 7J x 17-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. With a ground clearance of 7.01 inches (178 mm), the RAV4 maintained its capability for light off-road excursions, further supported by approach and departure angles of 19° and 23°, respectively.
Technical Specifications of the Toyota RAV4 IV (facelift 2015) 2.0 D-4D
| Category | Specification | Value |
|---|---|---|
| General Information | ||
| Brand | Toyota | |
| Model | RAV4 | |
| Generation | RAV4 IV (facelift 2015) | |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D-4D (143 Hp) | |
| Start of Production | 2015 year | |
| End of Production | 2018 year | |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine | |
| Body type | SUV | |
| Seats | 5 | |
| Doors | 5 | |
| Performance Specs | ||
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) | |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg) | |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg) | |
| CO2 emissions | 123 g/km | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec | |
| Maximum speed | 121.17 mph (195 km/h) | |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 W | |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp (89.1 Hp/tonne) | |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm (199.4 Nm/tonne) | |
| Engine Specs | ||
| Power | 143 Hp @ 4000 rpm | |
| Power per liter | 71.7 Hp/l | |
| Torque | 236.02 lb.-ft. (320 Nm) @ 1750-2250 rpm | |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse | |
| Engine Model/Code | 2WW | |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) | |
| Number of cylinders | 4 | |
| Engine configuration | Inline | |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.31 in. (84 mm) | |
| Piston Stroke | 3.54 in. (90 mm) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 | |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail | |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC | |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt) | |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt) | |
| Space, Volume and Weights | ||
| Kerb Weight | 3538.42 – 3560.47 lbs. (1605-1615 kg) | |
| Max. weight | 4706.87 lbs. (2135 kg) | |
| Max load | 1146.4 – 1168.45 lbs. (520-530 kg) | |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 19.32 cu. ft. (547 l) | |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 61.27 cu. ft. (1735 l) | |
| Fuel tank capacity | 15.85 US gal (60 l) | |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3527.4 lbs. (1600 kg) | |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 1653.47 lbs. (750 kg) | |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length | 181.3 in. (4605 mm) | |
| Width | 72.64 in. (1845 mm) | |
| Height | 65.94 in. (1675 mm) | |
| Wheelbase | 104.72 in. (2660 mm) | |
| Front track | 61.42 – 61.81 in. (1560-1570 mm) | |
| Rear (Back) track | 61.42 – 61.81 in. (1560-1570 mm) | |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 7.01 in. (178 mm) | |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 34.78 – 36.75 ft. (10.6-11.2 m) | |
| Approach angle | 19° | |
| Departure angle | 23° | |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | ||
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. | |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive | |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission | |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson | |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever | |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs | |
| Rear brakes | Disc | |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) | |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion | |
| Power steering | Electric Steering | |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17 H | |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J 17; 7J 17 | |
Market Position and Lasting Impact
The Toyota RAV4 has long been a foundational model in the compact crossover segment, and the fourth generation, particularly after its 2015 facelift, continued this trajectory. The Toyota RAV4 IV (facelift 2015) 2.0 D-4D (143 Hp) played a crucial role in markets outside of North America, where diesel engines held significant market share due to their superior fuel economy and robust torque characteristics. In Europe, for instance, it competed fiercely with established rivals such as the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mazda CX-5 (diesel variants), Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. Its blend of Toyota’s legendary reliability, practical SUV versatility, and the D-4D engine’s efficiency made it a strong contender.
For European families and individuals seeking a dependable, economical, and spacious vehicle, the 2.0 D-4D RAV4 presented a highly attractive option. Its strong towing capacity of 3527.4 lbs. (1600 kg) with brakes further enhanced its appeal for those needing to haul trailers or caravans, a common requirement in many parts of Europe. The low CO2 emissions and Euro 6 W compliance also meant lower road taxes and environmental benefits in regions with strict regulations.
The RAV4’s legacy is one of consistent evolution and adaptation to global market trends. While the diesel variant eventually phased out in favor of hybrid powertrains in subsequent generations—a trend that would also gain immense traction in the US market—the 2.0 D-4D model from 2015-2018 represents a significant chapter in its history. It showcased Toyota’s engineering prowess in producing a highly efficient and capable diesel engine within a globally popular platform. This generation helped solidify the RAV4’s reputation as a versatile and trustworthy compact SUV, paving the way for its continued success and its eventual transformation into one of the best-selling vehicles worldwide, particularly in its hybrid iterations. Its impact can be seen in its contribution to Toyota’s global sales dominance and its role in shaping consumer expectations for practicality, efficiency, and reliability in the compact SUV segment.
