Toyota RAV4 Wait Times in Australia (Q2 2024)
If you’ve considered buying a Toyota RAV4 in Australia, you might know that the country is experiencing an unprecedented situation resulting in lengthy vehicle delivery times.
With the RAV4 being the best-selling SUV in Australia, this situation is affecting tens of thousands of people.
Toyota has been fairly transparent about the fact that global demand is exceeding supply, but there isn’t much insight into how long you can expect to wait for your new RAV4.
That’s why we’ve connected with 25 Toyota dealerships in Australia to gather the most up-to-date waiting list times across the country. Here are the results!
Note: We will continue to update this article as we receive new information.
RAV4 (Non-Hybrid)
Waiting lists for the non-hybrid RAV4 range from 2-12 months with an average of 6.7 months.
Wait times are generally consistent across the entire country, but you might find something sooner in Western Australia. On the other side, Tasmania is still a bit behind.
| Region | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | 4-10 months |
| Queensland | 4-12 months |
| South Australia | 4-12 months |
| Tasmania | 6-12 months |
| Victoria | 4-12 months |
| Western Australia | 2-10 months |
The non-hybrid RAV4 is least affected by the parts shortages and overwhelming demand occurring globally, so it’s the best choice if you’re looking to pick up a RAV4 in the shortest time period.
These wait times are long enough that some people will not be able to wait if they have an immediate need for a car. However, those who can wait and have some patience should be able to tolerate these wait times.
RAV4 Hybrid
The RAV4 Hybrid is the most impacted model out of the Australian RAV4 lineup, with a wait time ranging from 1-3 years with an average of 18.1 months.
| Region | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | 1-2 years |
| Queensland | 1-2 years |
| South Australia | 1-2 years |
| Tasmania | 1-3 years |
| Victoria | 1-3 years |
| Western Australia | 1.5-3 years |
Complex technology is used in its hybrid systems; therefore, it has more parts that are exposed to the risk of shortages. Additionally, the RAV4 Hybrid’s fuel efficiency and affordability make it a popular choice among consumers.
For many people, these wait times are long enough that it’s worth considering alternative brands. Otherwise, you’ll need to hang on to your existing vehicle longer, buy or lease a car temporarily, or not have a car at all until you move to the end of the wait list.
To learn more about why these wait times exist, how to shorten your wait time, and more, read our full RAV4 wait time guide.
Future Outlook
The wait times for the RAV4 in Australia are not looking good, but there is some hope.
In 2023, Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s VP of Sales & Marketing, they are hitting record delivery numbers of 20,000+ per month and expect to sustain these numbers going forward.
While we hoped the wait times would be positively impacted by the news then, it has made little difference. We will continue to update this article throughout 2024 to see if any significant changes occur.
If you’re currently on a long waiting list, you can expect your timeline to shorten slightly in 2024. Those who aren’t yet on a waitlist can benefit by hopping in line as soon as possible, knowing that the current times aren’t expected to last as long. Toyota Australia is prioritizing those who have been waiting in line the longest.
Reserving Your Spot
Have you decided if you’re going to pursue a RAV4 despite the wait times? If so, the next step is to step into a waiting list.
To join a waitlist, visit your local Toyota dealership to discuss the details.
Most dealerships in Australia require a refundable deposit to secure your spot. These deposits are typically $500 or $1,000, but sometimes they can be up to $2,000. There are also some dealerships that do not require a deposit at all, but this is uncommon.
Your deposit amount will be credited to your vehicle purchase price, so you’re not paying extra to get a space in line.
What’s Your Take?
Australia is seeing some of the worst RAV4 wait times out of all countries, with wait times up to 3 years. However, it’s great to hear that Toyota has some data backing up their claims for improvements in 2024.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you been waiting for a RAV4? If so, let us know the details.
If you’re not on a waitlist yet, will you be joining one soon?