Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL
Our scoring places the 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL at 7.9/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.0/10, while Performance at 6.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 9.0/10, reliability is one of this suv's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The 8.7/10 safety score puts it near the top of the class on this dimension; the official trim-level results at nhtsa.gov are worth a final check.
Performance at 6.7/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Tech rates a reasonable 7.5/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $30,455–$38,052, 22 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota RAV4 SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The 7.3/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL is a solid, well-rounded suv that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is performance — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL ranks #293 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 88% of the segment. Its 7.9/10 overall score is 0.5 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $30,455 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 16%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which RAV4 SL Year Should You Buy?
Across the RAV4 SL model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL
Is the 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL reliable?
We rate the 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL's reliability 9.0/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL worth buying?
It scores 7.9/10 overall, ranking #293 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 88% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL cost?
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 SL starts at $30,455 and ranges up to $38,052 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which RAV4 SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest RAV4 SL years we've rated are 2015 (7.8/10), 2018 (7.9/10), 2017 (7.9/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.4/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Toyota RAV4 SL
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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
