Toyota RAV4 Sport V6

In the trim level’s final year of production, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Sport had a powerful 269hp V6 engine that offered a full range of utility.
Written by Drew Waterstreet
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
background
The Toyota RAV4 Sport was only available from 2008 to 2012, but it was still a crucial stepping stone in the development of the RAV4 model line. The powerful 269hp 3.5 L V6 engine helped the RAV4 Sport put the utility in “sport utility vehicle.”
The current RAV4 is designed more for the everyday driver; however, the RAV4 Sport appeals more to the utilitarian driver. With 246 lb-ft of torque and a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, the RAV4 Sport can help you complete just about any job on your to-do list.
We've put together a performance guide to help you fully understand the capacity of the V6 engine in the Toyota RAV4 Sport, using the final 2012 model as an example.
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2012 Toyota RAV4 Sport V6

Original Starting MSRP: $25,000 to $30,000
Used Price: $12,000 to $17,000
Engine: 3.5 L V6
Horsepower: 269 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque: 246 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm
0 to 60: 6.8 to 7.2 seconds
It seems like all modern SUVs focus too much on design and forget about utility—the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Sport could do both! The 269 hp 3.5 L V6 gives it all the performance capacity you could need from a midsize SUV, all without sacrificing style.
Here are some standout features that contribute to the balance of the Toyota RAV4 Sport V6: 
  • Towing Capacity: up to 3,500 lbs
  • Impressive Cargo Space: flat load floor and low load height
  • Driving Features: AWD and downhill assist control
  • Additional Features: Bodyside moldings, power moonroof, Bluetooth connectivity, roof rack, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more!
Whether camping, towing, or driving to work, the Toyota RAV4 Sport could truly offer a full range of practical utility.

How’s the fuel economy?

The Toyota RAV4 Sport achieved better fuel economy than average for its class, with a combined 22mpg. But, remember, if you're towing anything or carrying heavy cargo, you’ll get worse fuel efficiency.

Which Toyota RAV4 models have the V6?

The V6 engine came standard in the 2012 RAV4
Limited
and
Sport
trim levels, but not the base trim. However, this served as the end of the road for the V6 coming standard on the RAV4. Most modern models have opted for a 4-cylinder or hybrid engine.

How fast is the Toyota RAV4 Sport V6

You're probably purchasing a Toyota RAV4 Sport more for its power than its speed. Nevertheless, the V6 engine can get you from zero to 60 in 6.8 to 7.2 seconds—with an empty cargo space, of course!
Key Takeaway The Toyota RAV4 Sport had a powerful 269hp engine that could offer a full range of practical utility.

Which is better: Toyota RAV4 Base or Sport?

The Base model was the only trim level that didn’t come with a V6 engine in the 2012 RAV4 model line. Critics often say that the 177hp 2.5 L four-cylinder engine was uninspiring; you’d be better off checking out the 2012 models of the
Jeep Cherokee
or
Kia Sorento
.
Luckily, the V6 Sport saved the day, ranking highly amongst its competition. So, we highly recommend spending the extra bucks on the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Sport edition if you're looking for a powerful and highly reliable used midsize SUV.
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How to find affordable Toyota RAV4 Sport insurance

Due to the depreciated value of a 2012 (or older) Toyota RAV4 Sport, you should be able to get quoted for a manageable insurance rate. 
But If you’d rather leave the hard work of gathering quotes to someone else, use Jerry. This
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FAQs

Yes, the Toyota RAV Sport models are equipped with a 269 hp 3.5 L V6 engine.
Yes, the 2012 Toyota RAV Sport comes standard with AWD—helping it perform in poor driving conditions and towing situations.
Yes, the 2012 RAV4 Sport was given a five out of five reliability rating by J.D. Power. The car's longevity makes it an incredibly appealing option for used car buyers.
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