Toyota's RAV4 and Highlander rank as top-selling crossover SUVs for the brand in the United States. In 2021 the RAV4 achieved sales exceeding 407,739 units even with limited changes following the launch of its fifth-generation model in 2019. The Highlander saw more than 264,100 examples delivered that year, surpassing other sizable Toyota offerings such as the 4Runner, Sequoia, and Tacoma.

Although the RAV4 operates in the compact SUV segment, comparing its depreciation and resale performance against the larger three-row Highlander reveals notable differences. Data from Kelley Blue Book shows the 2021 Highlander lost 29 percent of its value over three years. Starting from a base price near 35,000 dollars before destination charges, a 2021 Highlander could be acquired in 2026 for roughly 22,500 dollars, with trade-in values around 18,200 dollars.

In contrast the 2021 RAV4 preserved value more effectively, depreciating 25 percent or about 7,120 dollars across the same period per KBB figures. With an original base MSRP of 26,250 dollars excluding destination, 2026 resale prices sit near 21,100 dollars and trade-in values reach 19,150 dollars. The RAV4 stands among Toyota's slowest-depreciating models alongside the Corolla Cross, Tacoma, and Sienna.

Larger SUVs Such as the Toyota Highlander Typically Depreciate More Rapidly

Both the RAV4 and Highlander utilize unibody construction on Toyota's TNGA-K platform shared with models including the Camry, Sienna, and Crown Signia. The three-row Highlander features a larger and heavier structure, measuring 14 inches longer and 3 inches wider than the RAV4 while riding on a 112.1-inch wheelbase versus the RAV4's 105.9 inches.

The added mass requires a bigger powertrain. All 2021 Highlanders came with a 3.5-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower, whereas the 2021 RAV4 used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder rated at 203 horsepower. Factors such as age, mileage, brand, and model influence depreciation, yet elevated fuel and upkeep expenses have reduced demand for larger SUVs like the Highlander in the used market, resulting in softer residual values. Smaller vehicles and SUVs such as the RAV4 generally maintain stronger resale performance than midsize SUVs.

Hybrid Versions of the Toyota RAV4 and Highlander Lose Value at a Slower Pace

Hybrid powertrains deliver improved fuel economy, supporting lower depreciation rates and stronger resale figures. The current-generation RAV4 Hybrid, built on the same TNGA-K architecture, depreciated 24 percent or approximately 7,616 dollars over three years according to KBB. Resale values stand at 23,400 dollars with trade-in figures at 22,100 dollars.

The 2021 Highlander Hybrid similarly outperformed its gasoline counterpart, depreciating 24 percent or about 8,769 dollars over three years with resale and trade-in values of 26,600 dollars and 24,800 dollars respectively. For context the EPA lists the 2021 RAV4 gas model at 27 city, 35 highway, and 30 combined mpg. The RAV4 Hybrid achieves 41 city, 38 highway, and 40 combined mpg. The 2021 Highlander returns 20 city, 28 highway, and 23 combined mpg while the hybrid variant reaches 35 city, 34 highway, and 35 combined mpg.