Toyota has produced its popular RAV4 on almost every continent for over 25 years. During that time, the production location of each model changed dramatically. This article looks at where current and past Toyota RAV4s are made and possible upcoming production locations.
Let's begin with a brief overview of the history of the Toyota RAV4. Toyota Japan produced the first generation from 1994-2000, followed by a second generation built between 2000-2005. The third generation came out in 2005 and is still being manufactured today. Each new model brought subtle visual changes to the exterior and interior but remained unchanged until 2018, when we saw the fourth generation hit showrooms worldwide.
Summary
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV (sport utility vehicle) produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. This was the first compact crossover SUV; it made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994 and in North America in 1995. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle with most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the maneuverability and fuel economy of a compact car. The RAV4 was awarded the 1997-2001 Asia Pacific Car of the Year, and in 2013 it was ranked as the world's best-selling SUV.
Breakdown
- The Toyota RAV4 is manufactured in Japan, Canada, Russia, China and the USA.
Brief History of the Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 was first introduced in 1994 as a compact crossover SUV. It was the first compact AWD SUV to hit the US market. It was also one of the first Toyota vehicles to use TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture). This platform allows for lower bodies, lower C0G, and a lighter platform. The RAV4 remained essentially unchanged until the third generation in 2005. In that time, Toyota produced 1,081,602 RAV4s in three generations.
Where is the Toyota RAV4 Made?
- The first two generations of RAV4 were made in Japan. This was common practice for the Japanese auto industry, as it was cheaper and more efficient for them to ship their cars overseas rather than build their plants outside Japan.
- The third-generation RAV4 was made in Canada, Mexico, and Japan. The engines were made in Japan and shipped to the other two plants.
- The current fourth generation of RAV4 has also seen a lot of movement in its production location.
- The current model is made in Japan, followed by a short stint in China. Production in China was halted in September 2018 due to a trade war between the two countries. It is currently unknown if Toyota will move production back to Japan or another country.
Third Generation: Made in Canada and Mexico
This was the first RAV4 with an exterior different from its predecessor. The second generation had a similar design to the original, but the third generation had a more stylish and modern look. This model was made in Canada and Mexico. This is the first time a model produced in Canada has been exported to the US instead of being shipped to Japan. The engines in this model were built in Japan and shipped to the other two plants.
Second Generation: Made in Japan, Mexico, and the United States
This was the first RAV4 model built in the US. It was made in Japan and Mexico, but the engine was built at a new Toyota facility in Alabama. This is the first time a model has been made in three countries simultaneously. Many people were excited about the production in the US, but it is unclear if the current RAV4 model will be made there.
Update - Toyota begins production of RAV4 at Georgetown, Kentucky, plant
First Generation: Made in Japan and Korea
The first generation RAV 4 was the same as the current RAV4, except for the wheelbase length, which was shorter on this model. Most people expected this model to be made in Japan, but Toyota surprised everyone by making it in Korea. This may have been due to the Japanese automotive industry's full capacity.
Final Words
The RAV4 has come a long way since its first production in 1994. It has been made in six different countries and is now being built in its seventh location. Only time will tell whether or not the RAV4 will continue to change production locations.
The RAV4 is one of the most popular crossover SUVs in the world. It is one of the most recognizable cars on the road and has been produced in many locations. The fourth generation is currently being made in Japan, while the third was made in Canada and Mexico. The second generation was created in Japan and the United States, while the first generation was made in Japan and Korea.