Models
Importing a Toyota RAV4 from the USA: generations, model years and what to check
The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most in-demand crossovers in Georgia — reliable, economical, with cheap parts and strong resale value. It appears in large numbers on US auctions (Copart, IAAI). Below are the generations, model years and what to check before you buy.
Generations and model years
4th generation (XA40), 2013–2018
2.5L petrol engine, dependable automatic. After the 2016 facelift safety improved (Toyota Safety Sense). A good budget pick — but it is over 6 years old, so factor in the higher excise.
5th generation (XA50), 2019–2024
Built on the TNGA platform — better handling and safety. This is where the RAV4 Prime (PHEV) appeared, and the RAV4 Hybrid was renewed for the new generation (the hybrid first arrived in 2016, with the XA40 facelift). Trims: LE, XLE, Adventure, Limited, TRD Off-Road. This generation is the most popular to import.
6th generation, 2025+
The new generation is slowly appearing at auction — still limited in number and priced high.
RAV4 year by year — 2013 to 2024
Below, each model year is covered separately — what changed that year and what to keep in mind when importing in 2026 (especially age and excise).
RAV4 2013
Start of the 4th generation (XA40). The V6 and the third-row seat were dropped — only the 2.5L petrol with a 6-speed auto remained. Pre-facelift styling. In 2026 it is already over 6 years old, so the higher (triple) excise applies — but it is the cheapest RAV4 at auction.
RAV4 2014
A carryover of the 2013 with no major changes — a reliable, cheap budget option. Same 2.5L engine. It is over 6 years old, so the excise is high; if budget is the priority, it is a sound pick.
RAV4 2015
Still the pre-facelift XA40 with a few added features. 2.5L, all-wheel or front-wheel drive. Over 6 years old in 2026 — factor in the higher excise at customs.
RAV4 2016
An important year: the mid-cycle facelift — new front/rear styling, a refreshed interior and Toyota Safety Sense. The RAV4 Hybrid also debuted (US market) for 2016. If you want an XA40, 2016+ is better for safety and the hybrid option.
RAV4 2017
The post-facelift year — top Platinum-level equipment was added. Both petrol and hybrid are available. A reliable, well-equipped used car. Over 6 years old in 2026.
RAV4 2018
The final XA40 year — the most refined of this generation, with the Adventure trim added. A dependable, sorted option for a budget. Over 6 years old → higher excise.
RAV4 2019
An all-new 5th generation (XA50) on the TNGA-K platform: a new 2.5L (203 hp) with an 8-speed auto, bolder styling and a stronger hybrid. Early cars sometimes show a hesitant transmission at low speed. In 2026 it is nearing 6 years — check the exact age for excise.
RAV4 2020
Android Auto and the TRD Off-Road trim were added; otherwise carryover. Importing a RAV4 2020 from the USA is popular because it is one of the more affordable XA50 years. It turns 6 in 2026 — the excise is borderline, so confirm with the calculator.
RAV4 2021
The RAV4 Prime (PHEV) went on sale — ~302 hp and a long electric range, the quickest RAV4. Importing a RAV4 2021 from the USA pays off: it is still under 6 years, so the excise is low (1.50 GEL per cc on petrol).
RAV4 2022
Equipment and colour updates with minor trim changes — otherwise a steady XA50. In 2026 it is comfortably under 6 years, so clearing it is cheap. A balance between price and being recent.
RAV4 2023
New multimedia (8″/10.5″ screens), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the Woodland Edition (Hybrid). Modern features plus a low excise — one of the best choices to import in 2026.
RAV4 2024
The final XA50 year before the 2025 redesign — the most sorted of this generation. The newest → the lowest excise (well under 6 years). If your budget allows, the RAV4 2024 is the best balance of recency and price.
For the exact customs on any year see the 2026 excise rules or use the calculator.
Engine and drivetrain — which to choose
- 2.5L petrol: simple, reliable, cheap to maintain.
- Hybrid: low consumption, and under 6 years it carries a lower excise. Ideal for the city.
- Prime (PHEV): long electric range, but rarer at auction.
What to check before bidding
- Damage history: most RAV4s come with a salvage title — check the damage type and frame integrity.
- Hybrid battery: on hybrid versions, battery health matters.
- AWD system: confirm the all-wheel drive works.
- Recalls: some years have known recalls — a VIN check is essential.
To assess a damaged lot see the Copart guide and run a VIN check.
Common problems — what to watch for
The RAV4 is very reliable overall, but each generation has known weak spots:
- XA40 (2013–2018): some units show higher oil consumption on the 2.5L and rear-suspension noise. Check the oil level and listen to the suspension.
- XA50 (2019–2024): early 2019–2020 cars had a hesitant transmission at low speed (fixed via software) and occasional fuel-system recalls. The hybrid is smoother here.
- General: test the A/C, power windows and infotainment — on damaged lots these are often the affected parts.
Fuel economy and mileage
The 2.5L petrol uses about 9–10 L/100 km in the city and down to 7 on the highway. The hybrid is far thriftier — 5–6 L/100 km in town. The RAV4 is known for longevity: with proper care, 250,000+ km is normal. At auction, 100,000–150,000 km (60,000–90,000 miles) is a good balance between price and remaining life.
RAV4 vs the rivals — Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe
The RAV4's main edge in Georgia is strong resale value and cheap, widely available parts. The Honda CR-V rides a little more comfortably and is also reliable, but shows up less often at auction. The Hyundai Tucson/Santa Fe are cheaper to buy and well equipped, but depreciate faster on the used market. If holding value is the priority, the RAV4 leads.
Why the RAV4 is popular in Georgia
An all-wheel-drive crossover is practical for Caucasus roads, and the RAV4's ground clearance and durability handle mountain regions well. Parts are sold in almost every auto shop, service is cheap, and the car resells quickly. That is why the RAV4 stays one of the most in-demand models to import year after year.
Customs and price
The RAV4 engine is usually 2.5L, so excise depends on age — a model under 6 years is significantly cheaper to clear. See the 2026 excise rules. For the exact cost of a specific lot use the calculator or get a personal quote.
Frequently asked questions
Which RAV4 generation is best to import?
The 5th generation (2019–2024) is the most popular — TNGA platform, a hybrid version, and lower excise on models under 6 years. For budget, the 4th generation (2013–2018).
Is the RAV4 Hybrid worth importing?
Yes — low consumption and (under 6 years) a lower excise make it economical for the city. Check the battery health before buying.
Can I import a salvage RAV4?
Yes. A salvage car can be imported legally, but it must pass a technical inspection before registration. Assess the damage via the VIN and photos.
What is the RAV4 fuel consumption?
The 2.5L petrol uses about 9–10 L/100 km in the city and down to 7 on the highway. The hybrid does 5–6 L/100 km in town — far more economical.
RAV4 or Honda CR-V — which should I import?
The RAV4 holds resale value better and has cheaper parts; the CR-V rides slightly more comfortably. If retaining value matters most, choose the RAV4. Both are reliable.
How many kilometres is acceptable on a used RAV4?
With proper care a RAV4 lasts 250,000+ km. At auction, 100,000–150,000 km is a good balance between price and remaining life.
How long does it take to import a RAV4 from the USA?
The full process is usually 35–50 days: purchase, US inland transport, ocean freight, customs and registration.
Is AWD worth it on a RAV4 for Georgia?
Yes, if you often drive in the mountains or on poor roads. For city use the front-wheel-drive version is enough and slightly more fuel-efficient.
RAV4 2019 vs 2024 — what is the difference?
Both are the 5th generation (XA50), so the base is the same. The 2024 is newer — better multimedia, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, and a lower excise because it is under 6 years old. The 2019 is cheaper at auction but over 6 years old.
Which RAV4 model year is best to import in 2026?
The newer the better — ideally under 6 years (roughly 2020 and later) for a lower excise. Within your budget, pick the newest year; you save on customs.
Is the 2025 RAV4 (new generation) already at auction?
Yes, but still in limited numbers and at a high price. The 2019–2024 (XA50) remains the most accessible choice.