Should I do it?

I want better gas mileage (who among us doesn't?), but I still want the off road look and would like to go camping/over landing.

I think I found the solution:






Sure, the KO's on it will knock down the MPG's from 52MPG to, say...44MPG? But that's still better than what we get with our SloRunners! It even has tons of LED lights, so I'll fit in amongst you crazy fuckers.

 

Yes do it and then you can spend your time on the rav4 forums

 

Ha. You won't get rid of me THAT easily!

 

Its not unheard of
https://www.instagram.com/spaseyota?igsh=YmZhbHFwbWtmN3Z0

 

If you are doing it only for MPG then no.

 

Gross

 

Prius if you want mileage. Don’t waste time on a look. Modding a RAV4 or Subaru is pretty lame.

 

Buy a 10k used Camry for commuting if MPG is a concern. Keep your 4R for the fun stuff.

 

I see AI is still not quite there yet. Looks like the tire tracks are missing. Must have been dropped by helo

 

I mean other than dimensions, the RAV4 has never been more capable.

people out there doing cool things with Crosstreks, RAV4s, Passports etc.

If you don’t mind trading margin-for-error and more difficulty estimating “can I make it?” from online trail reviews for fuel economy, price and packaging then go for it.

If we get into modding it, if you want more than a skid and an inch lift, don’t bother.

Of course, you’ll have homework too. The e-AWD hybrid systems in Toyota’s is probably the least capable AWD system in their crossovers. But on the other hand it might be enough to get you there and you get to enjoy HVAC for much less fuel when idling.

Anyways, the big constraints I found was approach angle, transmission cooling and overall lower clearance. (less room for error while minimum on these is the rear diff I think?) Handling of getting wheels off the ground is very vehicle, equipment and mode specific.

Having to research whether I’d make it based on limited feedback can be a pain though. “Hmm… I can do better than a stock Outback but maybe not a Cherokee Trailhawk like those people took”

Saw a post somewhere of a Crosstrek owner talking about how they have to be more careful and are slower but saves on fuel

 

Definitely!

Start a build thread here once you get it dialed in.

 

I considered that platform several years ago but with dogs and the wife determined there wouldn't be enough room for the inevitable extras.

 

Gas mileage and off-road ability are contrary goals. Better you are at one, worse you are in another. Consider getting a used car for secondary priority (i.e., commute with a hybrid while having an old offroader for days you want to do that).

 

Go for it!!!

Looking forward to your build thread with a ton of pics

 

I'd say go for it! It's your money, your time, your life path. Other peoples opinions shouldn't matter in the end. Naysayers will tell you how stupid your choice is because it isn't as capable enough, or they don't like the way it looks, or just because it is not a choice THEY would make. They are the minority, yet usually are the loudest ones. They are easy to spot, and just as easy to ignore.

 

Allow me to retort:

Friends don't let friends ditch 4Runners for Rav4s.

 

I'm in agreement with you "Bro's before EV-ho's!"

Just to clarify, I'm not considering this at all. I was bored and wanted to stir the shit-pot, so waa-laa, this thread was born!

 

LOL you got the reaction, alright.

 

Oh well.

My comments still stand.

 

I am happy with mpg I have. I kinda knew what 4Runner will give me

 

Oh.My.Gawd.

 

Why not get a subaru crosstrek?

 

Not with that windcatcher on the roof.

 

Might be less than you would expect, this guy got 30 MPG in a FWD, gas-only, current-gen RAV4.

https://www.rav4world.com/threads/mpg-with-cargo-box-and-other-fully-loaded-travel-notes.303106/

That said, to add onto my essay I would not start with a 4th gen RAV4.

 

Sure it can take you to camp sites. I am not gonna underestimate the lil Rav4. I say go for it. Momentum is your friend

 

Don't forget the diff locks

https://auto-equation.com/products/rav4-highlander-diff-elocker

 

There's a mad-man (said endearingly) running around in a black second-gen RAV4 with a swapped center locker (from a first-gen) and I believe that rear locker as well. Absolutely incredible.

If it were me I'd try to score the optional factory rear torsen LSD but those are rare. It's neat that it (Edit: I mean that linked e-locker) fits Highlanders and later year RAV's but I'm not sure I've read of it happening.