I’m looking to purchase a 2022 base RAV4 or Camry.
Having no luck finding one in stock, or a commitment to sell at MSRP.
Decided to look at the Mazda CX-5 and noticed the VIN started with a J, the RAV4 and Camry are no longer made in Japan.
Thinking the Mazda may be an underrated long term value in this market.
Any input would be appreciated…I’m spending way too much time researching and overthinking my next vehicle-Thanks.
What are your requirements? Do you absolutely need a crossover, or is a sedan sufficient for your intended usage?
I don’t absolutely need a crossover, but the extra space comes in handy with kids, and I prefer AWD being in the snow belt…but for thousands less I could go for a sedan if I like it.
If your concern is the fact that Camry or Rav4 are not made in Japan don't worry about that; even if built in the US it's still Toyota quality but just being built somewhere else so if you want Camry or Rav4 don't decide against it because of this. As for getting at msrp your best bet is finding a dealership that has an incoming allocation, going in and negotiating the OTD price, putting a deposit and getting a signed detailed sales order. Buying from incoming allocation is best chance for getting at msrp in this market; and remember msrp is the new definition of a good deal in this market. I've used this method and have bought a number of vehicles for myself and friends successfully at msrp.
I'm going to add that I totally agree with both @mmj and @kaizen when it comes to the interior and comfort of the Rav4. I went out with a friend who has the new Rav4 and couldn't believe how much roomy it has become compared to previous models. I also would pick the Rav4 over the other two options. And the ride is very smooth too.
I test drove a new RAV4 the other day , and I really like them. Toyota has succeeded at fixing the shortcomings of the previous generations, while at the same time making noticeable improvements. Kudos to them.
What was it you didn’t like about the previous generation?
The seats were awful and I didn't like the interior layout, especially the dash. They fixed the seats and layout. (full disclosure ... the demo model was the highest trim -- of course -- so I'm not sure if the lower trims use the same seat shape)
I agree. The previous generation felt claustrophobic.
yeah the increase in cargo room in the back hits you in the face. I like the big knobs, button controls, and symbols on the dash too. Every is easy to see and reach , and simple to figure out.
If your job requires you to use navigation often, it's right there. No longer do you have to look down and take your attention off the road.
I think the CX-5 is an amazing car. And so is the Camry.
But the current generation RAV4 is something special and revolutionary.
For the past 25+ years, the RAV4 was either built on a subcompact platform or a compact platform. Prior to this year, for about 15+ years, RAV4 was basically a Corolla in a crossover/SUV skin. But even before that, the RAV4 started life more like a Tercel/Echo/Yaris.
But the current generation is built on the Camry platform. Which means you are getting a “mid-sized” SUV for the price of a “compact” SUV. The RAV4 got upsized, but not necessarily priced up (not counting the crazy market).
But I believe it is still considered a compact SUV, the higher end of the compact range, which is basically midsized.
BTW: the size and stature of the car almost looks and feels like a BMW X5. And the BMW X5 is a mid size.
So yes, all of the three cars you mentioned are great cars. And I would drive any of them any day of the week.
But the current generation RAV4 is something special in the Toyota lineup.
To be honest, I would buy a Toyota made in China over any GM and Stellatis made in USA or even Japan. Toyota is making most of their USA market products in USA to save on costs, but their quality is still there in every vehicle.
