2015 Toyota RAV4 AWD in Moab: Sand, Wind, and Sun [Video Review]

2015 toyota rav4 awd in the loose sand off-road of Moab, Utah

How capable is theĀ 2015 Toyota RAV4 AWD in the loose sand? How does its all-wheel-drive system work? This is what we wanted to find out and off-road playground of Moab, Utah is a great place to try it.

The RAV4 is powered by the 2.5L four-cylinder with 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. It’s backed up by the 6-speed automatic transmission. This is the only engine and transmission combination in the RAV4. Although, you can get in front-wheel-drive only. The RAV4 AWD is EPA rated at 22 MPG city and 29 MPG on the highway. The AWD model starts at $26,115.

The AWD system in Toyota’s smallest crossover is able to shift up to 50% of power to the rear wheels. It also has a lockable power split that holds theĀ power 50/50 at speeds below 25 mph. We already know that it can handle snow and ice of the Rocky Mountains with mud+snow tires. How does the same vehicle hand loose sand?

Watch this TFLcar video review as Nathan Adlen evaluates the 2015 RAV4 AWD system.