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| © FCA US |
By Mike Meredith, AutoNXT
Best-Selling SUVs in America
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| © Toyota Motor Sales USA |
Some automakers no longer release monthly sales, but March sales are available for 11 of the top 25 SUVs and those models were off by 42.7 percent for the month — a more revealing indicator about the impact of the virus. Although SUV sales continue to make up a large segment of the market, even these popular models are not immune to the economic downturn due to the worldwide pandemic. Here are the best-selling SUVs in America based on sales for the first three months of 2020, according to numbers compiled from auto manufacturers’ sales reports.
25. Lexus RX
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| © Toyota Motor Sales USA |
Vs. 2019: –11.4%
The best-selling model in the Lexus lineup, the popular RX finished 2019 with December sales up 6.4 percent, leading the brand to an all-time sales record for SUVs in 2019. But sales are off by 11.4 percent for the first quarter of 2020, dragged down by a 49.5 percent drop in March compared to the previous year. Last year Lexus upped the utility of the RX with the addition of the RX L, a slightly larger model that offers seating for up to seven via a new third row.
Both the original and L versions of the RX are available as the RX 350 or the RX 450h, the latter featuring a powerful and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. Lexus adds new tech for the 2020 model year; the RX is the first model in the lineup to feature Android Auto connectivity along with the already-available Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration.
24. Subaru Crosstrek
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| © Subaru of America |
Vs. 2019: –17.9%
Subaru’s Crosstrek was redesigned for 2018 and had big sales that year, but fell 9 percent in 2019, dropping Crosstrek to No. 20 on this best-sellers list. Sales continued to fall in the first quarter of 2020, dropping Crosstrek to No. 24 after a 47.5 percent sales decline in March. The latest generation Crosstrek is longer and wider than the previous model, with new styling that features the familiar hexagonal grille, “hawk-eye” headlights and an impressive 8.7-inches of ground clearance.
Built on an all-new global platform, the Crosstrek has a lower center of gravity and more responsive steering to improve driving dynamics. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Crosstrek is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.
23. Chevrolet Blazer
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| © General Motors |
Vs. 2019: +632.5%
One of only three models in the Top 25 SUVs to post a sales increase for the first quarter, the 2019 Blazer was just launching in the first quarter of 2019 and sales were only 3,023 compared to 22,144 in 2020. The all-new Blazer marks the return of a storied SUV name from one of the original truck-based SUVs that debuted 50 years ago. Unlike the original boxy design, the new Blazer is a bold, sporty midsize crossover with a wide stance, sleek headlights, high beltline and dual exhaust at the rear.
Available as the L, Blazer, RS and Premier, the Blazer comes well equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and dual-zone climate control. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit producing 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. A 3.6-liter V6 is standard for RS and Premier and optional for Blazer, producing 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.
22. Volkswagen Tiguan
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| © Volkswagen of America |
Vs. 2019: –17.0%
The second-generation Tiguan arrived as a 2018 model, and 2018 sales increased by 119 percent followed by a modest increase of 6.7 percent for 2019, with sales dropping off the first quarter of 2020. Volkswagen’s compact crossover was redesigned specifically for the U.S. market, offering more interior space and third-row seating. Adopting Volkswagen’s current design language, the exterior includes sharper, stronger lines and a lower, wider stance.
Motivated by a new version of the German automaker’s turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, Tiguan delivers power to the front wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen’s signature 4Motion all-wheel drive with Active Control is optional. Other options include Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit display, and an available Car-Net system offers connected vehicle services.
21. Hyundai Tucson
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| © Hyundai Motor America |
Vs. 2019: –17.7%
Tucson sales cooled off in 2019 after a strong increase in 2018 with the early arrival of the redesigned 2019 model. That slide continues in the first quarter of 2020, including a 50 percent drop for March. The updated Tucson includes a Hyundai cascading grille similar to the Santa Fe, a new headlight design with LED daytime running lights, a new rear fascia, redesigned taillights and new wheels.
Two new engines are added: a 161-horsepower 2.0-liter and a 181-horsepower 2.4-liter — both combined with 6-speed automatic transmissions with an electronic shift lock system and SHIFTRONIC manual shift mode. Interior updates for 2019 included a new center stack, instrument cluster, leather seat design, vent design and rearview mirror.
20. Honda Pilot
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| © American Honda Motors |
Vs. 2019: –27.5%
Even though the Honda Pilot was refreshed for 2019, sales dropped 15 percent that year and the trend intensified for the first quarter of 2020 with sales off 27.5 percent, including a 50 percent drop in March year over year. The refreshed Pilot features more aggressive exterior styling, an available hands-free power tailgate, powertrain refinements, and an available new Display Audio touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter 280-horsepower V6 engine combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an available all-wheel-drive system.
The Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies is standard on all trim levels and includes a collision mitigation system with forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
19. GMC Terrain
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| © General Motors |
Vs. 2019: –0.3%
One of the few models with steady first-quarter 2020 sales compared to the same period last year, the GMC Terrain moves to No. 19 on this list after finishing No. 26 at the end of 2019. The Terrain was redesigned for 2018 and sales increased before dropping off last year. The Terrain features a bold grille, sculpted headlights and C-shaped rear light graphics. In addition to the top-line Denali trim, Terrain is available in SL, SLE and SLT trims with three engine choices, all with available all-wheel drive.
The standard engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter unit that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission. For 2020 Terrain adds the Elevation Edition available on SLE and SLT, highlighted by 19-inch gloss black aluminum wheels, darkened grille insert, black grille surround, black mirror caps, roof rails and black badging.
18. Toyota 4Runner
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| © Toyota Motor Sales USA |
Vs. 2019: –14.5%
After 35 years, 4Runner remains one of the few truck-based SUVs on the market. This highly-capable contender continues to be popular, although sales took a 5 percent dip last year and continue to slide in the first quarter of 2020, with March sales off 37.5 percent. For 2019 Toyota added the 4Runner Nightshade Special Edition, and the TRD Pro returned with a new suspension package with Fox shocks, a TRD roof rack, moonroof and new front skidplate. The 4Runner continues to be powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, delivered through a 5-speed automatic transmission. For 2020 4Runner adds the Venture Edition, based on the TRD Off-Road Premium with a standard Yakima MegaWarrior roof rack, gunmetal-colored 17-inch TRD wheels, black accents and all-weather mats.
17. Chevrolet Trax
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| © General Motors |
Vs. 2019: +14.9%
Chevrolet’s compact SUV continues to gain traction in the slowing market, one of the few models to show a gain during with an increase of nearly 15 percent for the first quarter of 2020. Trax is offered in three trim levels: LS, LT and Premier, with the Trax LS starting at $21,300. Trax draws power from an Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged engine making 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional on all trim levels. Trax receives EPA ratings of 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined, and when equipped with AWD is rated at 24 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined.
16. Ford Edge
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| © Ford Motor Company |
Vs. 2019: –4.3%
Ford’s midsize crossover received a new exterior look for 2019, boosting Edge sales to a modest 3.3 percent increase for the year, with sales dropping slightly for the first quarter of 2020. Edge is offered in SE, SEL and Titanium trim levels, as well as the new Ford Edge ST — the first utility vehicle from Ford Performance. All trim levels received new front and rear fascias as well as a new grille, hood and liftgate.
The Edge ST is motivated by a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine producing 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It also has an 8-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, ST-tuned suspension and an available performance brake package. A new Titanium Elite Appearance Package includes 20-inch bright machined aluminum wheels and a body-color rear bumper, front bumper and lower fascia.
15. Jeep Compass
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| © FCA US |
Vs. 2019: –20.1%
Jeep Compass sales cooled in 2019 compared to 2018, and that trend continues into the first quarter of 2020. But to be fair, sales in 2018 were more than double the previous year thanks to a redesign; the new Compass looks a lot like a miniature Grand Cherokee. Built on FCA’s small-wide 4X4 architecture, Compass comes in four trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk. Compass gets powered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 9-speed manual transmission for 4X4 models and a 6-speed automatic for 4X2 versions.
The Altitude Appearance Package is offered for the Compass Latitude, which includes a black roof, black exterior trim, black 18-inch aluminum wheels and piano black interior trim. The High Altitude Appearance Package is available for Compass Limited, which includes 19-inch Satin Gloss Granite wheels, HID headlights with an LED signature and LED taillights.
14. Chevrolet Traverse
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| © General Motors |
Vs. 2019: –12.1%
Chevrolet’s 3-row crossover, Traverse sales were strong in 2019, fueled by the redesigned 2018 model, but have cooled in the first quarter of 2020. The redesigned Traverse features a bold new look that follows Chevrolet’s larger full-size SUVs, with a focus on interior volume that incorporates seating for up to eight. For 2020 Traverse is offered in seven trim levels: L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier and High Country. The new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 is added and HD Rear Vision Camera is standard. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Traverse RS is offered with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
13. Subaru Outback
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| © Subaru of America |
Vs. 2019: –22.0%
The best-selling model in the Subaru lineup, the Outback is one of the original crossovers, combining SUV utility with the comfort and convenience of a wagon. Despite the arrival of the all-new 2020 Outback, sales for the first quarter of 2020 dropped by 22 percent with a decrease of more than 50 percent in the month of March. The latest Subaru to be built on the company’s new global platform, the 2020 Outback gets updated exterior styling, many new features, a greatly improved interior, updated powertrains and the latest version of EyeSight — Subaru’s suite of advanced safety technology.
EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist. All Outbacks feature Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel drive with active torque vectoring, vehicle dynamics control and a generous 8.7-inches of ground clearance.
12. Jeep Cherokee
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| © FCA US |
Vs. 2019: –31.9%
The Jeep Cherokee was updated for 2019 with a refreshed design for the first time since returning to the Jeep lineup as a 2014 model, but with new competition sales dropped 20 percent for 2019 and continued to drop more than 30 percent in the first quarter of 2020. Exterior changes include a revised, more vertical 7-slot grille; a new fascia; new headlights and a lightweight aluminum hood. An all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter direct-injection engine was added, producing 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Also available is a 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 that produces 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 four cylinder that produces 180 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. A new 9-speed automatic transmission is standard. Like all Jeeps, this popular SUV delivers legendary off-road capability with available features including a lifted off-road suspension, skidplates, tow hooks, Selec-Terrain traction control, and Selec-Speed Crawl Control.
11. Mazda CX-5
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| © Mazda North America |
Vs. 2019: –6.1%
Following four consecutive years of sales records, Mazda’s popular CX-5 recorded a 6.1 percent drop in sales for the first quarter of 2020 with March sales off more than 40 percent. Mazda CX-5 U.S. sales continue to be higher than the combined sales of all other Mazda models. Adopting the styling of the larger CX-9, the CX-5 is refined in nearly every way with a revised chassis, an updated SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a new interior and many available features.
The new CX-5 is the first Mazda to feature G-Vectoring Control, which enhances vehicle responsiveness and stability while reducing sideways sliding of occupants. For 2019 Mazda turned up the heat by adding the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels, both powered by the turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine, rated for 2020 at 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel; i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is standard.
10. Subaru Forester
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| © Subaru of America |
Vs. 2019: –3.9%
Following the arrival of the fifth-generation 2019 model, Forester set a sales record in 2019 and sales were down only slightly for the first quarter of 2020, although March sales dropped almost 34 percent. The current generation Forester is the roomiest version ever offered with a 1.2-inch-longer wheelbase, more rear-seat legroom and more rear cargo capacity, as well as improvements in crash protection, comfort, quietness and driving dynamics. EyeSight driver-assist technology is standard, and Forester Touring debuts DriverFocus safety technology that can alert the driver of fatigue or distraction. The new Forester is powered by an updated direct-injection 2.5-liter Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Forester is available in standard, Premium, Limited, Touring and Sport trim levels.
9. Jeep Wrangler
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| © FCA US LLC |
Vs. 2019: –20.6%
Following the introduction of the all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler, the model set an all-time sales record for 2018. Sales continued near the same level through 2019, but even the Wrangler is not immune to the current market — sales dropped more than 20 percent in the first quarter of 2020.If any vehicle deserves the “iconic” label, it’s the Jeep Wrangler — the modern descendant of the original U.S. military vehicle that spawned the Jeep name and began the legacy of extreme off-road capability.
The Wrangler retains its 7-slot grille and round headlights but is more aerodynamic than the previous generation. Both 2- and 4-door versions are available in Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon trims. For 2020 Jeep adds a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain to the Wrangler, as well as new special-editions such as the Wrangler Willys and Wrangler Black & Tan.
8. Toyota Highlander
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| © Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience |
Vs. 2019: –9.0%
The Toyota Highlander is all new for the 2020 model year and sales were trending upwards until March, which had a drop of almost 50 percent versus a year earlier, resulting in a 9 percent loss for the first quarter. The fourth generation of this popular crossover is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture. Highlander gets fresh styling with a bold black grille, available premium projector headlights and a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a plentiful 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque combined with a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission — enough power to provide a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The Highlander Hybrid is powered by the new-generation Toyota Hybrid System that combines a high-efficiency 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower in a system that’s more compact and more efficient than before.
7. Ford Escape
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| © Ford Motor Company |
Vs. 2019: –20.7%
Ford’s compact 5-seat crossover, Escape had been the best-selling American-brand SUV for a long time, posting record sales a few years ago. However, a downward trend in the past couple years resulted in 2019 sales down 11 percent — nearly 30 percent in the fourth quarter. Despite the arrival of the all-new 2020 Escape with fresh styling and new powertrains, Escape sales continue to fall in 2020 with a decrease of 20.7 percent year over year in the first quarter. The 2020 Ford Escape is lower, wider and longer than its predecessor, with a look that is quite a departure from the current generation.
The front end features an all-new grille surprisingly similar to those on the Focus and Fusion passenger cars, rather than the Ford SUVs. The new 2020 Escape is available with a choice of four engines; the standard unit is a 3-cylinder 1.5-liter EcoBoost expected to produce 180 horsepower. Ford is also bringing back the Escape Hybrid — the 2020 model is available as a standard hybrid as well as a plug-in.
6. Jeep Grand Cherokee
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| © FCA US |
Vs. 2019: –13.3%
One of the original and most popular SUVS of all time, the Jeep Grand Cherokee set a new sales record for 2019 and moved past Wrangler as the top-selling Jeep model. As with most models, sales dropped for the first quarter of 2020 and Grand Cherokee lost one position on the list. Remaining true to the original formula it debuted more than 25 years ago — and without a major redesign since 2011 — Grand Cherokee continues to weather strong competition thanks to time-honored off-road capability in an attractive package.
Offered with several 4WD systems as well as trim levels, the Grand Cherokee line now boasts the off-road-focused Trailhawk, the luxurious Summit, as well as the Trackhawk, which gets motivation from a supercharged 6.2-liter engine producing 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque — providing capability to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. For 2020 Jeep adds more standard equipment across the Grand Cherokee lineup, as well as the latest advanced safety features now available on the base-level Laredo.
5. Ford Explorer
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| © Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience |
Vs. 2019: –9.1%
The best-selling SUV of all time, Explorer sales dropped nearly 30 percent in 2019 and even with the arrival of the all-new, redesigned 2020 Explorer sales continue to drop in the first quarter of this year. Despite the decrease in sales, Explorer moved up five positions on this list as other models experienced bigger losses. With its first major redesign in 10 years, the new Explorer is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive flexible architecture designed to improve ride, handling and capability. The standard engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder unit producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Two new versions will be added: the powerful ST and the Limited Hybrid. Explorer ST is powered by a 400-horseower 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine and Limited Hybrid features a 3.3-liter hybrid system producing 318 combined system horsepower. A new feature for the 2020 model is a suite of safety features called Co-Pilot360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, post-impact braking and a rearview camera with lens washer.
4. Nissan Rogue
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| © Nissan North America |
Vs. 2019: –36.3%
The top-selling model in Nissan’s lineup, Rogue sales were off by 36.3 percent for the first quarter of 2020, dropping the popular small crossover one position on this list. Rogue’s success can be attributed to updated styling and added features, as well as the addition of the smaller Rogue Sport. Rogue features a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an advanced Xtronic transmission with Eco mode, boasting an EPA fuel economy rating as high as 33 mpg.
Rogue also has a new hybrid in the lineup. Rogue Sport rides on a 2.3-inch shorter wheelbase and is 12.1 inches shorter than Rogue, motivated by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower. The 2019 Rogue was the first model to offer Nissan Safety Shield 360 — a suite of six advanced active safety and driver-assist technologies. All Rogues are now available with ProPILOT Assist — Nissan’s first step toward building autonomous vehicles.
3. Honda CR-V
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| © Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience |
Vs. 2019: –26.8%
The Honda CR-V set a new sales record for 2019, but sales were off 26.8 percent for the first quarter of 2020 and 46.9% in March, dropping the CR-V to the No. 3 position. The fifth-generation CR-V continues to be Honda’s top-selling model in the U.S. market, with more than 4.5 million sold since its introduction in 1997. The CR-V offers consumers a comfortable, small crossover with great utility and excellent fuel economy.
For 2020 Honda has refreshed the CR-V’s exterior styling and added the first hybrid to the lineup. Similar to the Honda Accord Hybrid, the CR-V Hybrid uses a 2-motor hybrid powertrain that teams two electric motors with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine for a combined output of 212 horsepower, making it the most powerful variant in the CR-V lineup.
2. Chevrolet Equinox
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| © General Motors |
Vs. 2019: –17.0%
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, the Equinox moved up to the second position on this list despite a drop in sales for the first quarter of 2020. The redesigned 2018 model pushed sales to new records for both 2018 and 2019, and Equinox continues to be the best-selling American-brand SUV. The Equinox features a new exterior design with projector-beam headlights, LED running lights, wider horizontal taillights and LED taillights for upper trim levels.
Inside, the new Equinox features a down-and-away instrument panel with a low windshield base for improved outward visibility. Two engine choices for Equinox in the U.S. market continue to be a 170-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo and a 252-horse 2.0-liter turbo combined with a new 9-speed automatic transmission. For 2020 Chevrolet adds a Midnight Edition Equinox to the lineup.
1. Toyota RAV4
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| © Toyota Motor Sales USA |
Vs. 2019: +16.5%
The Toyota RAV4 continues to be the best-selling SUV in America with a 16.5 percent sales increase for the first quarter of 2020, although March sales were off significantly with a drop of 25 percent. RAV4 finished 2019 as the best-selling SUV in America, thanks to the arrival of a redesigned 2019 model, as well as a 92 percent sales increase for RAV4 Hybrid. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the new RAV4 has bold styling, improved capability, better performance and an array of new safety and convenience features.
In addition to the updated styling and efficient powertrains, RAV4 now comes with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection — as well as lane departure alert — as standard equipment. For 2020 Toyota adds the RAV4 TRD Off-Road, and has also announced that the 2021 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid will be arriving this summer. Not only will the plug-in be more fuel efficient, it will also be the second-quickest vehicle in the Toyota lineup.
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