Toyota RAV4 XSE 2022 review: snapshot

The newly added variant for the 2022 Toyota RAV4 range could be the sweet spot.

The Toyota RAV4 XSE 2022 grade builds upon the GLX below, and adds a number of plush inclusions and stylish exterior features that will help it stand out in the crowd.

Unlike the GXL below it, the XSE grade is available in hybrid only, priced at $42,825 for the 2WD and $45,825 for the AWD. The engine is the 2.5-litre petrol-electric unit, with 160kW and official combined fuel consumption of 4.7L/100km in 2WD, and 163kW/4.8L/100km for the AWD.

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Explore the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Range

Toyota RAV4 2025 review: Hybrid Cruiser 2WD Toyota RAV4 2023 review: GXL 2WD Hybrid Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2022 review: XSE 2WD Toyota RAV4 Edge 2022 review: snapshot Toyota RAV4 Cruiser 2022 review: snapshot Toyota RAV4 XSE 2022 review: snapshot Toyota RAV4 GXL 2022 review: snapshot Toyota RAV4 GX 2022 review: snapshot Toyota RAV4 2019 review

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The XSE justifies its $2500 premium price point over the GXL with the inclusion of dark exterior highlights on the bumpers, grille, fog light garnishes, door mouldings, mirror caps and the roof is black, too. There are 18-inch black alloy wheels, too.

Inside there is a black headliner, but the big difference is that XSE models score fake leather trim called "Softex", heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, leather-accented door trims, interior mood lighting, and an electric tailgate. There's also a part-digital dashboard with a 7.0-inch display.

There's also keyless entry and push-button start, sat nav, DAB digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but still the same 8.0-inch touchscreen. At least there are five USB ports and wireless phone charging.

Safety gear mirrors the models below, with a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, front AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Given the step-up and the inclusions on offer, the XSE offers a strong value proposition and is our new pick of the range.