When Will the Toyota RAV4 Going To Be Redesigned?

Questions: Why do you feel that the next generation, new model of the Toyota RAV4 will appear for 2012? The current model of the Toyota RAV4 first appeared in 2006. Toyota’s previous pattern for next generation, new model is 5 years. If they continue with this pattern, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, the next generation will appear for 2011. I would like to know why you feel, it will be 2012. I want to get a RAV4, for the 4WD and can wait a year, but not 2 years.

Answer: Thanks for your interest in our Toyota RAV4 coverage. You're correct, previous-generation RAV4s have been on a five-year model cycle. Economic realities, however, have forced automakers to extend product life cycles to spread development and launch costs across more model lines. The new trend is a six-year cycle for cars and a seven-year cycle for SUVs, trucks, and minivans.

That's why our sources tell us Toyota is stretching the current-generation RAV4 through model-year 2011, with the redesign due probably in spring 2011 as a 2012 model. Note that this creates a shortened 2011 model year, so we're in the midst of what might be considered a six-and-a-half-year RAV4 model cycle.

Of course, this reporting is based on the best available information at the time. And these days, even the car makers can't always say with certainty what their future product cycles will look like. We're watching Toyota's plans closely, and if circumstances change, Iguida.com will be among the first to tell you.

If you don't want to wait until spring 2011, my advice is to consider a 2010 RAV4. It'll be fresh through the end of this generation, and you'll be able to take advantage of the best buyer's market in years.

Regards,
Chuck Giametta
Managing Editor, Iguida.com