Toyota RAV4 Wait Times in the USA (Q4 2023)
The RAV4 is one of the best-selling SUVs in the U.S. market today because of its mass appeal, reliability, and affordability.
While it would have been easy to find a new RAV4 on the lot several years ago, it is a rare sight these days. Due to parts shortages, high demand, and other factors, consumers seeking a new RAV4 may encounter significant wait times.
These shortages began in mid-2021, which was shortly before I purchased my 2021 RAV4 LE. I recall waiting 4 weeks to receive my car after putting down a deposit.
With shortages expected to last into 2024, many prospective RAV4 buyers are considering other options.
To gain the latest insights into the current RAV4 shortages, we called 33 dealerships around the United States to inquire about wait times on all RAV4 models.
Here’s what we found!
Note: We will continue to update this article as we receive new information.
RAV4 (Non-Hybrid)
The non-hybrid RAV4 is the most widely available model in the lineup. Therefore, it has the shortest wait time, ranging from 0-8 months, with an average of 1.7 months.
| Region | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Midwest | 2-4 weeks |
| Northeast | 1-4 months |
| Northwest | 0-2 weeks |
| Southeast | 0-4 weeks |
| Southwest | 1-4 weeks |
| Alaska | 1-2 months |
| Hawaii | 4-8 months |
There’s a chance you could walk off the lot with a new one if you find the right dealership and are flexible with your choice of trim and features.
However, many parts of the USA are still experiencing significant wait times for the non-hybrid RAV4. It’s most likely that you’ll still have to hop on a waitlist, especially in the Northeast, Alaska, and Hawaii, where wait times are longest.
RAV4 Hybrid
You can expect to wait anywhere from 0-12 months for a RAV4 Hybrid in the USA, with an average wait list length of 2.4 months.
| Region | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Midwest | 2-4 weeks |
| Northeast | 1-10 months |
| Northwest | 1-12 months |
| Southeast | 0-4 weeks |
| Southwest | 1-2 months |
| Alaska | 2-4 months |
| Hawaii | Not available |
The Southwest and Midwest are seeing short wait times of less than 1 month, while other regions have extended wait lists averaging several months. It’s also worth mentioning that the RAV4 Hybrid isn’t available in Hawaii at all.
The RAV4 Hybrid is highly sought-after because of its superior fuel efficiency while still meeting an affordable price point.
RAV4 Prime
The wait for the RAV4 Prime is the longest among RAV4 models in the USA, with wait lists ranging from 1-18 months with an average of 4.6 months.
| Region | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Midwest | 1-6 months |
| Northeast | 1-7 months |
| Northwest | 6-18 months |
| Southeast | 1-8 months |
| Southwest | 1-12 months |
| Alaska | Not available |
| Hawaii | Not available |
RAV4 Prime availability can be discouraging. Depending on how flexible you are with the trim and features, you may have a shorter time in the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, or Southwest parts of the country. However, you could wait up to 18 months in the Northwest.
Additionally, the RAV4 Prime isn’t available at all in Alaska or Hawaii.
While the RAV4 Prime isn’t as popular as the other RAV4 models, the supply is very low. Additionally, consumers seeking to buy one are persistent and have strict requirements.
To learn more about why these wait times exist, how to shorten your wait time, and more, read our full RAV4 wait time guide.
Reserving Your Spot
If you’ve decided that you’re going to wait for a RAV4, you’ll need to get yourself on a waitlist.
To join a waitlist, start by visiting your local Toyota dealership to discuss your options.
Shorter waitlists will typically allow you to choose from an inventory of available vehicles, so you’ll know what you’re getting. If the waitlist is longer, you may not be able to choose a vehicle until you’re closer to the end of the waitlist.
Most dealerships in the USA require a deposit at the time of reservation of between $500 and $1,000. It is typically non-refundable; however, some dealerships offer refundable deposits. The deposit will be credited towards the final vehicle price.
We spoke with a few dealerships that required larger deposits, such as 10% of the vehicle price. If your local dealership requires a large deposit like this, we recommend seeking out other dealerships.
It’s best to get in touch with several dealerships in your area to find one with the shortest wait time and lowest deposit amount.
How Long Will You Wait?
Wait times for the RAV4 range from 0-18 months, depending on your region, desired model, and preferences.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the situation.
In the comments section below, let us know:
- How long are you willing to wait?
- If you’re currently waiting for a RAV4, how long is your wait time?
- What model are you interested in buying?
- What region of the country are you buying from?