Renault Austral vs. Toyota RAV4: Complete comparison 2026

Renault Austral, a modern compact SUV built on a new platform and equipped with top-tier infotainment from Google, entered the market as a confident successor to the older Kadjar model. Its challenger is a true benchmark and historically the world's best-selling SUV, the Toyota RAV4, which you can also find in certain markets under alternative names such as the Suzuki Across or Toyota Wildlander. Let's take a detailed look at how this direct battle between the French technological newcomer and the Japanese hybrid legend turns out, and which vehicle represents the better choice for a second-hand purchase.

Looking at the exterior dimensions of both vehicles, it is clear that although both fall into the highly competitive category of family SUVs, each approaches it with slightly different proportions. For a relevant comparison in the market for nearly new and roughly four-year-old used cars, we focus on the fifth generation of the Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation) and the first generation of the Renault Austral. The Japanese representative bets on maximizing internal volume and overall makes a more dominant impression on the road. The Austral, on the other hand, chooses a slightly more compact European approach that emphasizes better everyday agility. The choice between the two vehicles from the perspective of exterior proportions thus primarily depends on whether your main priority is uncompromising spaciousness for the family or rather effortless maneuvering through the urban jungle.

In terms of specific numbers, the Toyota RAV4 with a total length of 4600 mm is up to 90 mm longer than the Renault Austral, whose length ranges between 4510 and 4533 mm. A similar difference can be found in width, where the Toyota, with a value of 1855 mm, exceeds the Renault (1825 mm) by exactly 30 mm. The larger footprint of the Japanese SUV in practice means more living space in the shoulder and elbow area inside the cabin, which you will appreciate especially if you often travel fully loaded. On the other hand, the narrower and shorter body of the Renault Austral represents an undeniable advantage for users whose priority is easy parking in tight underground garages or navigating cramped European parking lots.

Significant differences also exist when looking at height and wheelbase, which directly define the overall stance of both vehicles. The Toyota RAV4 stands at a height of 1685 mm, thereby towering up to 67 mm over its more aerodynamically shaped French rival with a height from 1618 to 1645 mm. The wheelbase itself, which is a key figure for longitudinal space in the interior, is 2690 mm for the Toyota, while the Renault offers 2667 mm. The 23-millimeter difference in favor of the Toyota, combined with its taller body construction, guarantees more generous head and knee room for adult passengers in the rear seats. In contrast, the lower silhouette and overall sportier cut of the Austral model will clearly please drivers who prefer a lower center of gravity, resulting in more agile vehicle behavior in corners and better aerodynamics during highway travel.

When choosing a family SUV, trunk space plays a key role, as it directly affects daily practicality and the car's usability for family vacations. The Toyota RAV4 and Renault Austral approach this task with different philosophies, which are also reflected in their overall interior layout. While the Japanese representative bets on raw volume and massive space, the French challenger counters with clever variability thanks to sliding rear seats. Differences in total capacity can ultimately be the deciding factor for families who often transport strollers, sports equipment, or bulkier luggage.

In terms of specific numbers, the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA5) proves to be an exceptionally generous hauler. In its standard configuration, it offers an excellent trunk volume of 580 liters, which is space perfectly sufficient for a large weekend grocery run or packing the family for a longer vacation. After folding down the rear backrests, this value increases to a staggering 1,690 liters. The first-generation Renault Austral offers a base volume of 500 liters in its mild-hybrid versions. However, this is where the clever sliding rear bench comes into play, allowing the trunk to be expanded up to 575 liters if needed. With the seats fully folded, the Austral then provides a maximum of 1,525 liters of space. So, if we compare the fixed base configuration without sliding, the RAV4 leads by a significant 80 liters, which in practice means free space for one extra average-sized suitcase.

An important factor for buyers of nearly-new used cars is the differences in fully electrified powertrains. The full hybrid version of the Renault Austral (E-Tech Full Hybrid 200) reduces the base capacity to 430 liters (or 555 liters with the seats moved forward) due to battery placement, and the maximum volume after folding drops to 1,455 liters. A similar loss of space affects the popular plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4, where the base volume drops to 520 liters. As a result, if you are looking for maximum transport capacity without any compromises, the Toyota RAV4 will be a safe bet. However, the Renault Austral elegantly makes up for the paper loss with its sliding seats, allowing you to flexibly balance between passenger legroom and space for your luggage.

When choosing a family SUV, the maximum towing capacity often plays a key role. Whether you plan to tow a caravan for a summer holiday or need to hook up a trailer with building materials for a weekend cottage renovation, the differences between these two models are very noticeable in practice and can make your final decision quite easy.

Toyota RAV4 (in the popular XA5 generation, available since roughly 2019) is a bit of a double-edged sword when it comes to towing. Its conventional 2.0 petrol engine can pull a heavy braked trailer weighing up to a respectable 2000 kg. However, for the hybrid versions, which are highly sought after on the used car market, the situation becomes much more complicated. While the all-wheel-drive hybrid can handle a solid 1650 kg (and the plug-in hybrid 1500 kg), the base front-wheel-drive hybrid drops to just 800 kg.

In contrast, the first-generation Renault Austral (produced since 2022) offers much more consistent performance across its entire portfolio. Its internal combustion mild-hybrid variants (with 140 to 160 hp) can easily handle a braked trailer weighing 1350 to 1800 kg, while the very efficient and technically sophisticated E-Tech 200 full hybrid model has a reliable towing capacity of 1500 kg. For all vehicles examined, they can easily handle a standard unbraked trailer up to 750 kg.

What does this mean in practice? More powerful versions of both cars with a capacity of 1500 kg and more can easily tow a decently sized caravan or a bulky boat trailer, which is perfectly sufficient for a longer holiday. However, if you inadvertently choose a Toyota RAV4 with the "front-wheel-drive" hybrid, you will be very limited by the 800 kg limit for a braked trailer – that is barely enough for a small weekend shopping trip to a DIY store or hauling garden waste, or perhaps for attaching an e-bike rack to the tow bar.

In conclusion, if you are looking for an uncompromising workhorse, the 2.0-litre Toyota RAV4 offers the absolute best of both worlds. But if you are choosing an economical hybrid and occasionally need to tow a medium-weight caravan, the Renault Austral is a safe bet, as you don't have to worry about unpleasant weight restrictions with any of its engine options.

The engine range of both models clearly shows two completely different technical philosophies, which has a fundamental impact on vehicle choice based on preferences for consumption, dynamics, and reliability. While the first-generation Renault Austral relies exclusively on small-displacement turbocharged petrol engines (e.g., 1.3 TCe) with various levels of electrification and drives only the front wheels, the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA5) dominates the market with much more robust 2.0 and 2.5 litre naturally aspirated engines. Interestingly, while Renault uses an innovative multi-mode gearbox inspired by the world of F1 for its top model, Toyota relies on a decades-proven and technically bulletproof e-CVT planetary gearbox. A huge difference is also the absence of all-wheel drive in the Renault, which, conversely, represents one of the biggest draws of the RAV4 model range. Renault's strength is its lower weight and great efficiency in city traffic, while its weakness is less versatility. For Toyota, the plus is uncompromising reliability and the sophisticated AWD-i all-wheel drive, while the disadvantage can be poorer engine sound insulation under full throttle and slightly higher purchase prices for used cars. If you are looking for a modern and economical city SUV with smooth operation, the Austral with the E-Tech engine will interest you. For families going to the mountains, drivers with higher motorway mileage, or those interested in towing heavier trailers, the Toyota RAV4 in the 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i version is undoubtedly the better choice.

Renault Austral

Under the hood of the Renault Austral, which has been on the market since 2022, you won't find any diesel engine. The core of the used car range consists of the proven 1.3 TCe four-cylinder petrol unit (developed in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz) using 12V mild-hybrid technology. It was originally offered in the 1.3 Mild Hybrid 140 (103 kW) version, but this weaker engine, which also offered a manual gearbox, definitively disappeared from price lists in spring 2024. The 1.3 Mild Hybrid 160 (116 kW) version, supplied exclusively with a smooth CVT automatic, remains significantly more in demand. The pinnacle of the entire model range is the sophisticated 1.2 E-Tech Full Hybrid 200 system with an output of 147 kW. This full-hybrid uniquely combines a new turbocharged three-cylinder with a powerful electric motor and a distinctive multi-mode automatic gearbox that does not use a conventional clutch. All Renault Austral variants are available exclusively with front-wheel drive (FWD).

Toyota RAV4

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation) built its global popularity on highly efficient and exceptionally reliable units that are also excellent for buying on the used market. At the very beginning of sales in 2019, a conventional 2.0 naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine (129 kW) was also available, but it completely left the European range in mid-2020, so you will only encounter it exceptionally among newer used cars. The vast majority of the market is quite rightly driven by the phenomenal 2.5 Hybrid, which uses a petrol engine operating in the economical Atkinson cycle. It is available with front-wheel drive (FWD, 160 kW) or as a versatile AWD-i four-wheel drive (163 kW), which uses a dedicated electric motor on the rear axle. From the end of 2020, the uncompromising top-of-the-line 2.5 Plug-in Hybrid version with a massive system output of 225 kW (306 hp) also began to appear. Thanks to a large battery, standard AWD-i drive, and a smooth e-CVT gearbox, it manages not only decent dynamics but can also travel over 70 kilometres on a single charge purely on electricity.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for your long-term satisfaction with the car, which is why the following recommendations are based on real-world performance, actual fuel consumption, owner feedback, and documented mechanical reliability. Looking at these roughly four-year-old used cars, you'll find that both manufacturers take a completely different approach to what's under the hood. While the Toyota RAV4 relies on years of refined and globally proven full-hybrid technology with a large-displacement naturally aspirated engine, Renault has taken a more radical path with the Austral. The French automaker has completely abandoned diesel engines and relies exclusively on electrified petrol units, ranging from simpler mild-hybrids to a very complex full-hybrid system with an innovative multi-mode gearbox without a traditional clutch.

For the Renault Austral, we recommend: Mild Hybrid 160 (116 kW)

Although Renault heavily promotes its technologically advanced E-Tech 200 full-hybrid system, from the perspective of a sensible and trouble-free purchase of a roughly four-year-old used car, the more moderate Mild Hybrid 160 version makes the most sense. While the weaker Mild Hybrid 140 variant was already phased out in 2024 and is harder to find, the more powerful "160" forms an ideal and widely available centerpiece. Under the hood lies the excellent 1.3 TCe four-cylinder, developed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, which is considered one of the most reliable and best-designed downsizing engines on the market today.

From a technical standpoint, this engine offers a very smooth torque curve, very quiet operation, and in real-world driving, it can reward you with a favorable fuel consumption of around 6.5 liters per 100 km. Furthermore, the CVT transmission is tuned to simulate classic gears very naturally and does not suffer from the so-called "vacuum cleaner" effect. In terms of overall practicality, this version also has a higher towing capacity for trailers than the more complex full-hybrid.

Regarding risks, it is important to realize that the engine uses direct fuel injection. Constant stop-and-go driving in city traffic with a cold engine can lead to carbon deposits on the intake valves. As an effective prevention, we recommend occasionally taking the car for a run on the highway and regularly refueling with premium fuel containing cleaning additives. When buying a used car, also check if the service history records an oil change in the automatic transmission – for long life, this should be done every 60,000 km at the latest.

This engine is an ideal choice for versatile drivers. It will serve families well who combine shorter trips for errands with regular weekend or highway journeys, where they will appreciate the stability, quietness, and overall comfort on board.

For the Toyota RAV4 we recommend: 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i (163 kW)

In the world of compact SUVs, you would be hard-pressed to find a more robust and reliable powertrain on the used market than the 2.5-liter hybrid (A25A-FXS) in the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA5). This system represents the absolute benchmark for reliability and low maintenance. Mechanically, it lacks many delicate parts that usually burden owners' wallets in used cars – you won't find a traditional friction clutch, a classic starter, or a conventional alternator, while the e-CVT planetary gearbox used is practically indestructible.

The greatest technical advantage of this powertrain is its incredible efficiency. Despite being a relatively large and spacious SUV, it can achieve fuel consumption below 6 liters per 100 km in real-world combined driving. Furthermore, the AWD-i version uses an independent electric motor on the rear axle for all-wheel drive. This means there is no heavy and maintenance-intensive driveshaft, yet the car maintains excellent traction on snow and wet surfaces.

When buying a roughly four-year-old used car, however, you must watch out for one major and well-known issue nicknamed "Cablegate." This refers to the risk of corrosion on the high-voltage orange cable connector that leads to the rear electric motor and is exposed to road spray, dirt, and road salt. Before buying, it is absolutely essential to have the car lifted and visually inspect this connector. If the cable is fine (or if it has already been replaced with a modified part under warranty), you should have it immediately treated preventively with a special anti-corrosion wax or spray, which will save you from expensive repairs in the future.

This hybrid powertrain is perfect for calmer and pragmatically minded drivers. It completely dominates in urban and suburban traffic, where it can fantastically benefit from regenerative braking, but it also holds its own during highway trips for family vacations.

Official fuel consumption figures often look very tempting in car manufacturers' promotional materials, but the reality on the road can differ significantly. For a more accurate and objective comparison of both vehicles, we have therefore focused on real-world data directly from owners, via the popular crowdsourcing portal Spritmonitor.de. For the most relevant comparison within the used car market, we analyzed vehicles suitable for those interested in a roughly four-year-old car – in the case of the Renault Austral, this is its first (and only) generation, and for the Toyota RAV4, the current generation designated XA5.

Looking at the aggregated data from drivers, some very interesting trends are visible:

• Complex hybrids really work: The most fuel-efficient full hybrid engine of the Renault Austral (E-Tech Full Hybrid 200) achieves an excellent real-world average of around 6.2 l/100 km, which roughly corresponds to Toyota's popular 2.5 hybrid system with a real average consumption of around 6.4 l/100 km.
• Small displacement doesn't automatically mean savings: Renault's base mild-hybrid engines (1.3 TCe petrol four-cylinders) do not save as much fuel as one might expect from their size and hybrid assistance. Their average consumption in normal traffic hovers around the 7-liter mark. This clearly proves that a smaller turbocharged engine in a larger and heavier SUV must work under significantly greater load. Toyota's conventional 2.0-liter petrol engine then takes around 7.5 liters, which is an expected value given the absence of a turbo.
• The tricky plug-in hybrid: For the Toyota RAV4, we also find a plug-in hybrid version, for which the official standardized cycle promises a dream-like consumption of around 1 liter per 100 km. However, the reality recorded by users over the long term is an average of 5.7 l/100 km. This is clear evidence that many owners do not have the possibility of daily charging (or do not use it), and therefore complete a large part of their journeys with a depleted battery in standard hybrid mode.

For a typical buyer in the used car market, there is a clear lesson to be learned. If you spend a lot of time in the city and on suburban routes with frequent stop-and-go traffic, the full hybrid versions of both brands will be an absolutely ideal choice with an excellent ratio of brisk performance and low operating costs. On truly long highway routes, however, the consumption of hybrids gradually increases to values approaching conventional powertrains, and the difference may partially disappear. Buying a plug-in hybrid Toyota RAV4 makes economic sense only if you are certain and have the possibility to regularly charge the vehicle from a home or company wallbox – otherwise, you are paying extra for heavy technology unnecessarily.

In conclusion, fuel consumption will not be the only decisive factor in the battle between these models. Toyota, with its sophisticated powertrain, remains the benchmark for long-term proven efficiency, but the confident Renault, with its modern E-Tech system, proves that it can very capably and efficiently rival its Japanese competition in the real world. Both SUVs thus represent a very effective choice for drivers looking for a modern and economical family car.

When searching for used cars roughly four years old (production years around 2022), you will encounter two different market approaches to vehicle depreciation. While the Japanese representative is considered one of the top performers on the used car market, the French SUV offers a more attractive entry price thanks to a steeper initial depreciation curve.

Toyota RAV4 (XA50 generation, post-facelift)
This model holds its residual value exceptionally well. The reason is high pan-European demand for its proven and highly reliable hybrid powertrain, which guarantees low service costs even after years of operation.

• Price range: For four-year-old cars, it typically starts at around €27,000 for more basic front-wheel-drive specifications. For well-equipped models and versions with intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i), you will typically pay up to €35,000.
• Market advantage: Depreciation is very slow. What you pay extra for today when buying a used car will largely be returned to you when you resell it.

Renault Austral (early models from 2022–2023)
The Austral, as the modern successor to the Kadjar, experiences a slightly faster price drop in its first years of operation. From the perspective of a smart used car buyer, however, this is a huge advantage, as you get significantly newer technology and a fresh design for a smaller sum.

• Price range: On the secondary market, a four-year-old Austral most often ranges between an attractive €23,000 and €31,000. For the price of a "basic" used Toyota RAV4, you can usually get a Renault in premium trim (e.g., Iconic or Techno versions) with the fuel-efficient E-Tech full-hybrid engine.
• Market advantage: It provides an unbeatable ratio of utility value, modern interior, and purchase price.

Overview of estimated prices (cars approx. 4 years old)

Both models, the Renault Austral and the Toyota RAV4, boast a maximum five-star rating in independent safety tests by Euro NCAP. Although it might seem at first glance that both vehicles offer the same level of safety, it is crucial to consider the context and the year the certification was granted. Euro NCAP testing protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter every year. While older methodologies focused primarily on passive safety, newer standards place much greater emphasis on advanced active safety systems, more demanding cyclist detection, and handling crisis situations at intersections. For this reason, percentage scores from different years cannot be directly and objectively compared.

The Renault Austral underwent crash tests in 2022, meaning it faced much stricter and more modern criteria. The car achieved an excellent result of 88% in adult protection and 83% for children. However, it significantly shone in the safety assist systems rating with a score of 87%, highlighting the advanced calibration of radars and cameras for autonomous braking and lane keeping. A weaker point with a result of 69% was the protection of vulnerable road users, which is a typical consequence of the new and extremely strict standards for assessing the rigidity of the front grille and A-pillars in modern SUVs.

The Toyota RAV4 completed a series of Euro NCAP tests in 2019. According to the standards of that time, it showed phenomenal performance in passive safety – adult protection reached 93% and child protection 87%. Pedestrian protection also fared very well with a score of 85%. Conversely, it received 77% for assistance systems, which was an excellent result in the context of the time, but when compared to today's cars, it shows that the calibration and functionality of its active assistants do not reach the complexity required by models tested under newer rules.

When interpreting this data, it is necessary to realize that Euro NCAP certification has limited validity today. The five-star rating of the 2019 RAV4 is thus considered "expired" from the perspective of official standards, as it does not fully reflect the latest market requirements for preventing collisions with pedestrians or cyclists at night and when turning. In contrast, the Renault Austral's safety systems meet more modern standards, guaranteeing buyers that the car's electronics will function reliably even in the most complex traffic situations.

Overall, thanks to its sophisticated platform, the Toyota RAV4 is an excellent and exceptionally safe family car that collected almost the maximum possible ratings in its time. However, if you, as a used car buyer, are looking for the most technologically advanced accident prevention and the most modern active assistants meeting modern standards, the Renault Austral represents a more up-to-date and overall more sophisticated safety package.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer and clearly show the different approach of both brands to added value. While the French representative bets on top-notch connectivity and agility, the Japanese competitor benefits from its years of experience with hybrid propulsion and practical solutions for family use.

Renault Austral: Digital revolution and rear-wheel steering

• Infotainment and connectivity: The dominant feature of the interior is the OpenR Link system, which is built on the Google Automotive operating system. This means integrated Google Maps, a voice assistant, and access to the Google Play store. The system stands out with lightning-fast response, top-notch display graphics, and of course, remote OTA (Over-The-Air) updates.
• Chassis and steering: The Austral is one of the few cars in this class to offer the 4CONTROL Advanced system. This is an advanced four-wheel steering system where the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction at lower speeds (by up to 5 degrees). The result is a turning radius comparable to a small city car (10.1 meters) and excellent agility.
• Interior variability: French sense for family practicality is demonstrated by the sliding rear bench. It can be moved independently over a range of 16 centimeters, allowing users to choose between king-sized legroom for rear passengers or a larger luggage compartment volume (increasing up to 575 liters).
• Sporty editions: Instead of traditional trim levels, the Austral attracts with the top-of-the-line Esprit Alpine version. This replaces the former R.S. Line designation and adds specific matte body paints (such as the iconic Schiste grey), Alcantara upholstery, blue contrast stitching, and details referencing the brand's sports division.
• Powertrains: Renault has bet purely on electrification. You won't find a diesel in the range, but rather efficient mild-hybrids and a sophisticated E-Tech full hybrid system, which uses a multi-mode automatic transmission for its operation and ensures a smooth and quiet ride in the city.

Toyota RAV4: Pioneer of hybrid technology and unstoppable pragmatist

• Powertrain and efficiency: The main weapon of the RAV4 is the legendary hybrid system (HEV), complemented by a powerful plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. These powertrains stand out for their extreme reliability and real-world fuel savings. A specific feature is the AWD-i system, or intelligent all-wheel drive, which does not use a traditional driveshaft but a separate electric motor driving the rear axle.
• Smart features: A very useful element is the digital interior rear-view mirror (Smart Rear View Mirror). With a simple switch, the classic mirror changes into a high-resolution display that transmits the image from a camera on the tailgate. The rear view is thus perfect even when you have the trunk loaded to the roof. In the luggage compartment, there is a useful 220V socket (in the PHEV with an output of up to 1500 W).
• Safety and assistance: Every RAV4 is equipped as standard with the advanced Toyota Safety Sense package. This system includes excellent adaptive cruise control, an advanced pre-collision assistant with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a lane-keeping assistant, which together guarantee exceptionally relaxed travel on long routes.
• Sporty and outdoor versions: Toyota cleverly divides its top versions according to the owner's lifestyle. It offers the more ruggedly tuned Adventure variant with specific off-road cladding and grille, or the newer GR Sport. The GR Sport version, inspired by the Gazoo Racing division, brings not only sporty accessories but also a different, slightly stiffer suspension tuning for more confident handling.
• Infotainment and electronics: In newer model years (from 2022), the RAV4 is equipped with the modernized Toyota Smart Connect system. This brought significantly faster responses, cloud navigation with real-time traffic information, wireless Apple CarPlay connection, and support for remote access via the MyT mobile app.

The Renault Austral primarily targets buyers who demand the latest technology, excellent connectivity, and a more premium feel on board. It is ideal for drivers who spend most of their time in the city or on highways and can do without all-wheel drive.

The Toyota RAV4 is a pragmatic and exceptionally rational choice for families looking for maximum space, unrivaled reliability, and low operating costs. Thanks to the available all-wheel drive and more robust build, it represents a more versatile family car for all types of journeys.

Based on data from our practice, where every car undergoes a comprehensive car audit before its sale, and taking into account breakdown statistics, service reports, and long-term user experiences, we have compiled a detailed overview of the most common faults of both models.

Renault Austral

The Renault Austral only entered the market in 2022, so with roughly four-year-old used cars, we mainly encounter so-called teething troubles related to software and the completely new, highly complex hybrid powertrain.

• Powertrain and gearbox: In full hybrid versions (E-Tech Full Hybrid), there are complaints about occasional jerking or delays of the automatic multi-mode gearbox during gear changes, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. The manufacturer is gradually eliminating most of these issues through software updates.
• Electronics and hybrid system: Early models saw frequent error messages regarding the high-voltage system (e.g., problems with cooling or battery temperature management). Some owners also experienced premature discharge of the 12V backup battery, which, combined with other software errors, can lead to an "Impossible Restart" message and complete immobilization of the vehicle.
• Infotainment: Although the OpenR Link onboard system (built on Google services) is very user-friendly and modern, it was quite common for the screen to freeze or the system to not respond to touch at all in the first units produced. In this case, too, the solution is to upload newer software.
• Brake wear: Independent service statistics and owners themselves occasionally point out premature and more significant wear of the brake pads on the front axle.

Toyota RAV4

The fifth generation of the Toyota RAV4 has long been considered one of the most reliable SUVs on the market; however, as the hybrid versions age, several characteristic weak points have emerged that require your attention when buying a used car.

• High-voltage cable corrosion ("Cablegate"): This is the most significant problem for hybrid all-wheel-drive models (AWD-i) from the first years of production. The connector of the high-voltage cable that powers the rear electric motor is exposed to moisture and road salt due to its location, leading to severe corrosion. If the system fails, the repair is very expensive due to the need to replace the wiring harness. The automaker improved the design and protection of this part in newer model years (from the turn of 2022/2023).
• Interior leaks: In older model years of this generation, owners complained about poorly sealed roof rail mounting points. Because of this, water could penetrate the vehicle and run down the A-pillars or soak the headliner.
• 12V battery: Especially in hybrid variants, a problem with a prematurely discharged 12V starter battery can occur during frequent short trips in winter or when the vehicle stands for a longer period.
• Infotainment and cameras: Systems in cars manufactured before the extensive technological modernization face criticism for relatively outdated graphics, slower user interface reactions, and also for poor quality, even blurry, images from the rear parking camera.
• Engine noise: While not a direct technical fault, it is worth mentioning that the naturally aspirated petrol engine, in combination with the electronically controlled e-CVT gearbox, can be quite noisy during sharp acceleration (for example, on the highway), and its monotonous sound significantly penetrates the interior.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Whether you opt for a modern European crossover or a proven Japanese SUV, both models have their specifics that need to be watched out for. For absolute peace of mind before buying, the best step is always a physical inspection of the used car by an experienced expert.

When choosing a Renault Austral:

• Gearbox smoothness in the E-Tech version:
  Why it matters: The full hybrid version uses an innovative clutchless multi-mode automatic transmission. Early software versions in the first production years could cause jerky and hesitant shifting when transitioning from electric to internal combustion power.
  How to tell: During the test drive, simulate stop-and-go city traffic. Accelerate and decelerate between 20 and 50 km/h and observe if the internal combustion engine engages smoothly and without mechanical jolts.
• Operation of the 4Control Advanced system (rear-wheel steering):
  Why it matters: This advanced system improves maneuverability, but it is a complex chassis component that can suffer from play if maintenance is neglected or the mileage is high.
  How to tell: In an empty car park, try slow maneuvering at full lock from one side to the other. Listen from the outside or through an open window for any creaking or metallic clunks coming from the rear axle. However, the true state of wear can only be reliably revealed by a detailed technical inspection on a lift.
• Stability of the OpenR Link infotainment:
  Why it matters: The Android Automotive-based system is among the best on the market, but cars from the first months of production occasionally suffered from screen freezes and slow startups.
  How to tell: During the inspection, click through as many menus as possible, start Google Maps navigation, and try changing the climate control settings. Monitor the response speed, the smoothness of animations, and check which software version is installed in the car.
• Build quality and interior rattles:
  Why it matters: The Austral took a huge step forward in materials compared to its predecessor, but some early units may exhibit resonances from the dashboard.
  How to tell: Drive the car on cobblestones or a poor asphalt surface. Focus on sounds coming from the center console area, displays, and door panels.

When choosing a Toyota RAV4:

• Condition of the traction battery and hybrid system:
  Why it matters: Although Toyota hybrids are famous for their extreme reliability, a degraded battery (especially in older fifth-generation models or the plug-in hybrid version) means higher fuel consumption and very expensive repairs.
  How to tell: During a test drive with the car warmed up, monitor the energy flow on the display and notice how often the car switches to EV mode when coasting or driving slowly. However, the only certainty is an independent inspection of the used car focusing on hybrid system diagnostics (the so-called Hybrid Health Check).
• Leaks around the roof rails:
  Why it matters: In the fifth-generation RAV4 (especially 2019–2021 models), there was a known factory issue with leaking plastic seals on the roof rails. Water can leak into the interior and irreversibly damage the wiring or curtain airbags.
  How to tell: Carefully check the headliner upholstery, especially near the A-pillars and C-pillars. Look for water stains, yellowed spots, or even a noticeable musty smell in the interior.
• Noise and behavior of the e-CVT transmission:
  Why it matters: The planetary gearbox has a specific "vacuum-cleaner-like" sound under full throttle, which is a characteristic, not a fault. However, it should not emit any other unnatural mechanical noises.
  How to tell: Listen closely during sharp highway-style acceleration (from 80 to 130 km/h). If you hear significant metallic bearing hum, whistling, or feel vibrations, walk away from the car.
• Older infotainment response and connectivity:
  Why it matters: RAV4s manufactured before the facelift (until the end of 2022) used an older generation of the multimedia system. It was visually outdated, had lower resolution, and often suffered from unexpected Apple CarPlay or Android Auto disconnections.
  How to tell: Connect your smartphone to the car (via cable for older models), try playing music, and enter a destination into the navigation. Verify that the system does not freeze and that it communicates reliably with your mobile device.

Sources: ADAC, e15.cz, lidovky.cz, autoexpress.cz, automix.cz, e-auto.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.