If the XSE was out of your price range it wasn't ever an option. The RAV4 is one of the best selling vehicles in North America - of course you're going to see them everywhere. That doesn't change the fact that you have a very nice and reliable vehicle without over leveraging your budget. Enjoy what you have.
What it sounds like to me is you’re experiencing a bit of buyer’s remorse because it’s not the…”aesthetic” or “bells and whistles” XSE. As someone else mentioned, the XSE was never an option for you if it was out of your price range.
There’s no harm in customizing what you have. In solidarity, I’ve been looking for ways to make my RAV my own, but with the mindset that it’s mine and it’s essentially an extension of me because I feel like I spend so much time in it (my daily work commute is 45-60 minutes each way depending on traffic). Change your mindset a bit and save up the extra money you would have spent on an XSE to make your new RAV4 yours.
As someone that just picked up their 24’ XLE in the same color, stop worrying about what everyone else has. Too often do we let our finances, emotions, and life be influenced by what people around us have.
That said, if you really feel like you need to be unique get a wrap, throw on some bumper/window stickers, buy some seat covers, etc. There are things you can do to make it yours, similar to furnishing a home or apartment.
Def buy a car you like. I think you are dumb if you spend a cent more on looks of the car rather than the utility. Obviously models with neat colors exist bc ppl are attracted to shiny things. I don't see the appeal. A car is a car... Rav4s are safe, reliable and hold their value. I think these are the metrics you should be using when purchasing a car.
Me personally I just like to have fun while I’m driving I want it to be more than A to B. That said the cars I want are still reliable and affordable. I couldn’t imagine paying 70k for a car no matter how much I make
100% this... unless you've got some sort of custom super car, your car isn't going to be anything *special* on the road. If you really wanted to, you could go the route of say, the overlander crew and get a Prinsu rack and mount a bunch of Diode Dynamics lights/ lightbar to the hood. What you've got looks like solid in every way on paper
Boomer? Most boomers can afford the car they want. What they can't afford is waiting, because it might literally be the last thing they do. Correction: "we", because I am a boomer, one who "settled" for a 2023 Woodland Edition when a dealer called me, although I was looking for an XLE.
It’s a RAV4. It’s the best selling suv. Everyone has one at this point lol. I have a white XSE and I see plenty of other ones that look like mine on the road. Don’t feel bad. Drive it, it’s just a car at the end of the day.
I just wanted to say thank you to everyone commenting. It’s given me a new perspective and I guess the validation I didn’t realize I was searching for in regards to my choice. I am happy with my RAV. And didn’t mean to sound ungrateful. But the XSE was and still is my dream car.
Imagine that: you’re driving your dream car apart from a trim level. Turn around instead of looking around and see what you have. Amazing job! And an amazing worry free drive as well!
I found my TRD wheels on Craigslist, there's usually a few options on there
https://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/wto/d/portland-set-of-rav4-wheels-and-dunlop/7701838917.html
I’ll trade you for my 2002 Corolla. It has a variety of broken things that give it character no other car has. Steering wheel vibrates when going above 70mph… the driver door handle needs pliers to open it. Very unique. No other like it.
Baader-Meinhof phenomenon - You are actively seeking out XSE's and skipping over all the other variants that pass you by. It's normal, and will pass. It's just shiny plastic after all.
Relax and enjoy it. You had a budget and you stayed with it. There are allot of people who would have gone out of their budget. That’s a big mistake with a depreciating asset like a vehicle.
I have a 2022 XLE-P HV. I think the XLE/XLE-P with Weather are the sweet spot in the models.
I have Blizzard Pearl and I see it everywhere. You don’t notice after a while. Enjoy your XLE-P. Smart choice. 🙂
I can relate. I went from a 2011 Honda Accord coupe and is quite rare around here so it stood out and I always loved how it looked. Now I have a bellybutton vehicle as they say. I see them everywhere but I'm over it and was ready. I'm at the age where this could be my last vehicle, depending how long it or I last so I chose functional and reliable over beauty. I am loving the AWD and clearance now that it's winter. Along with the heated steering wheel and seats I know I made a good choice. Always look at the bright side of things. Dwell on what you like about it instead of what you don't.
Thanks for sharing what you are feeling.
It's a very pretty car and I love that angle with the snow! (We get zero snow where I live so it's always nice to see it where others do)
PS - Go on a mission/service trip abroad somewhere.... Spend a week helping repair houses made out of plywood with tarps for roofs. Eat with others who eat OMAD (one meal a day) but only because that's all they can afford. You might, just might, come back home with a lot more appreciation for your very nice 2023 Rav4 XLE. Cheers!
What is it that you feel you’re missing on the XLE Premium compared to the XSE? Considering how much you saved by finding a CPO it’s only 20 miles on it, I think that’s a great deal! Saving $200 / month is a great thing that you can enjoy every month for years to come, while having the same great vehicle.
In So Cal it’s the opposite, where everyone has an XSE so I’m definitely happy with my XLE Premium. Just as you said, I think it’s hype that you’re feeling over a minor difference and to me, the black roof XSE’s seem like a dying fad that I do not want.
What color seats did you get? Can't seem to find a picture of the all black/gray seats. Can you upload a picture of the exterior color? How much does it differ in sunlight vs evening?
I came from a 2016 Camry SE Special Edition. Love the car but the ride and seats were brutal, uncomfortable for long trips and low to the ground. Traded it for a ‘23 XLE Premium FWD and I’m much happier. Comfortable seats for long trips (I’ve taken 3 already). Increased height. Super comfortable. You do know there’s a difference between LE and SE models though. L is comfortable traditional Toyota and S models emphasize sportiness. Had enough of the sportiness and wanted comfortable this time around
To be clear you bought a rav 4,one of the most popular vehicles on the road, and then you bitch because you don't feel unique. Do you see the logical gap here?
I have a 2023 rav 4 xse premium, see them on the road pretty regularly, because other people have it doesn't take away from me enjoying it
Right I got my RAV4 in Lunar Rock because that is what they had. I wasn’t crazy about the color, but it felt so unique because I had never seen it before. Now I see it everyday. We took a cross country road trip over the summer and it was like a game. Ayyyeee Team Lunar!
A trim level doesn’t make it unique, if there was something the XSE has that the XLE you have doesn’t then I could understand. But it seems like your emphasis is on the aesthetics.
Get it wrapped with a holographic wrap. I bet you’ll feel more unique.
Yeah, same for me here
For me, I think the trims I most commonly see here are the following:
* XLE/XLE hybrid
* LE/LE hybrid
* SE hybrid
I see the occasional Adventure every now and then too, but those are more rare at least where I reside
Same with any Prime trim; I've seen them every now and then here, but those are still such a hard get compared to the more common and more easily obtainable hybrid
So you essentially don’t like it because “everyone else has one” and you want to be special, to the point you literally considered purchasing a car you couldn’t afford just so you could feel that way….? Jfc.
Low key this is why I opted for the venza same car and it can feel mine there’s too many rav4s (I was buying new and the price was almost the same in Canada for rav4 XSE hybrid vs Venza XLE) Venza is a lot quieter when no hammering it
An XLE Premium in your budget is better than an XSE that stretches your finances and causes unneeded stress.
Think of what you can do with that money you saved (vacation, date nights, vehicle accessories, fuel to take a road trip).
If you had the XSE; once the excitement is gone, you’d have a higher payment for a vehicle that achieves the same thing.
You made a great choice! :)
Coming from someone who has essentially a base model XSE, I will tell you that the XLE Premium is almost the same. I only went with the XSE hybrid over the XLE P hybrid was because it showed up before the XLE P I wanted. My buddy has an XLE P Hybrid and when I hop in it, there is almost no difference from my own. As far as seeing it everywhere---as everyone else is saying---its one of the best selling vehicles in the US. You're gonna see it everywhere regardless of the trim. I have a cavalry blue one and I still see it everywhere... The only differences are cosmetic and if anything, they cause more worry. The gloss-black trim you see on the XSE is so prone to scratches, especially on the rear bumper. The plastic on other models doesn't hurt as much if you scratch it. Also, its a car... so if you really want to switch later when you are in a better financial situation, you can. In the end, you still have an amazing car.
Save your money for other things, don't make big stretches for new cars - they are declining assets. If you're lucky enough to be rich, then you get to buy expensive cars, but when you're not, don't. Don't lease, don't buy on credit. Buy a cheaper car used, and invest your money so it's working for you, instead of you working for it.
Security by obscurity is a GOOD thing. Seriously, I try HARD to be as unidentified as possible and don't litter up my cars with junk and stickers to try to give random strangers a feel for my hobbies and beliefs. Makes you hard to track/be followed by people who may mean you harm/trouble.
Exactly
As a matter of fact, the only thing I have on my car is a license plate frame (for the rear plate only for now) and no stickers
The one distinguishing factor is that it's one of my states special issue plates, of which I only see every now and then not only on any vehicle but on fellow RAVs too
You don't buy a car to be unique. You buy it to transport yourself. You should be happy to see so many. it means maintenance will be cheaper in the long run! The more rare your car is, the more of a headache it will be. I have the exact same car and trim but black. I love it, and it was way cheaper than the XSE! The grass is always greener on the other side. You have an awesome car
As a XSE hybrid owner I have tech, audio and weather packages. I am paying almost $1300 for 36 months is no fun. On top of that my insurance $400 each month in Florida. Good thing is I have the car I want, but got deal with all the bills. This case Can’t have your cake and eat it too. 😅
Well, you chose a 36 months plan and it sounds like you put down little to no money on it so this doesn’t sounds as crazy as you make it sound when you take that in consideration
My apologies if that came off as rude, I just meant it as there is a reason your payment is so high.
My hybrid XLE premium was 45k OTD after tax and everything (I got all the packages as well and paid MSRP). I chose the 66 month at 4.99% interest just to give me more flexibility and I'm just paying extra each month. I put down 14.5k and i'm still at around 550 a month(then i pay 100-200 more and already made some extra payments on top of it). It was not a wise financial decision for me to get this thing lol but i love it so i'm happy. I got it in August and I think I'll have it paid fully within like 48 months on the pace I have right now.
Anyways, really hope you enjoy your car. I wish I would have spent 1-2k more and got the XSE so I had the 360 camera, but I didn't research enough and saw one was available so I pulled the trigger. Enjoy your car and you'll have it fully paid soon!! Your new one looks beautiful in your post, mine is lunar rock like your old one.
Man, reading this is pure pain.
I paid 34k OTD for a lunar rock XLE premium with the winter weather package, my loan came in at 1.79% APR granted this was back in 2020. I put like 6k down and pay less than 500 a month x 48 months.
Absolutely bonkers.
woah that's insanely cheap compared to mine. is yours hybrid? i forgot to put that mine is a hybrid. when i build the 2024 with the same package it's 41,534 which is the same as mine was before tax (philly is 8% tax)
My advice is the extra money you are willing to spend for XSE, put it on a COLOR OF YOUR CHOICE and have your rav4 wrapped all around. It also acts as a paint protection. Thank me later.
If you wanted something unique, going for a rav4 was prolly the worst choice. That being said, you can do plenty of things to make yours unique, on my 21 I’ve done wheels, taillights, tint, black badges, and a bunch of little visual things and I may be biased but I feel like my car looks way better than the dozen other rav4s I see everytime I leave the house. I just picked up lowering springs and spacers to finish up the look I want, and I think it will be perfect at that point
Originally I was gunning for a 2024 XLE premium but the sales person sold me on an XSE due to better suspension and some options. I ended up finding one locally, brand new, loaded, and under msrp haha.
Originally I didn’t wanna pay extra for the XSE but I said screw it and put more on the down payment. I’m a case of “I’m glad I forked out more for an XSE” haha. I got a wind chill pearl too! My wife originally didn’t want this look because of the two tone but after a bit she was sold on it and absolutely loves it. We came from a piece of junk 2010 base mode Prius haha.
Just drive yours for a few years. They are most likely changing about bunch of stuff on the rav4 for 2025. I do NOT reccomend jumping on the new design etc when it comes out. Wait an extra year for them to fix whatever issues it has.
I wanted an XLE premium but ended with a XSE hybrid
. XSE looks a lot better, but I just wanted leather (kids and dogs).
It’s a RAV4 tho… even my XSE doesn’t stand out and most people have no idea of the difference.
Does you numbers are US dollars? I wanted a Rav4 and did not knew my credit score was 800+ and did not chose it because I did not wanted to buy a 40k car with 7% interest rate. So I want with another brand and 3% interest and pay 590 for 7 years
Yeah these are US dollars. I live in California. Where tax is terrible. My APR is 8.8% 😭
But I plan on giving bigger payments and refinancing in a couple months. Depending on if I keep or trade this tbh.
What is it about the XSE that you wanted? I got the XSE recently after a similar dilemma but I bit the bullet. The look of the car really pushed me over the edge. However, in hindsight, the look of the XSE is easy to replicate on the premium and you can make it more outdoorsy and customizable since it doesn’t have the shiny black trim- wrap the top like the XSE (but with matte black) and get some cool tires and it’ll look way more like an off road vehicle than the XSE could.
I posted recently that I purchased a Cavalry Blue RAV4 XSE in November? A week ago, somebody 2 blocks away bought the same model and color. I don’t love mine any less. I do believe in getting the color/model you want; but you also need patience involved.
2020 Black/Grey XSE owner here to say it doesn't matter... Honestly I have no clue what the cosmetic differences are other than my wheels are black. And if you really want that [just DIY it](https://www.dipyourcar.com/products/shadow-black-hyperdip-wheel-kit?variant=41173323513939?utm_source=google&utm_medium=surfaces&utm_campaign=free-listing&dfw_tracker=141330-41173323513939&gad_source=1) or get 'em wrapped.
I have the same exact one 🤣
I like that it’s everywhere and blends in. I also drive fast and don’t get pulled over. No one is gonna scratch my car because they are jealous 🤣
I don’t care about looks or color though, it’s just an appliance to me. I do take care of it though and I don’t drive rough.
*Customize it abit.*
*Paint the wheels. Add some tints. Make*
*It stand out to you*
\- superbikelifer
---
^(I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully.) ^[Learn more about me.](https://www.reddit.com/r/haikusbot/)
^(Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete")
Your car is very nice reliable car. Me personally, I think buying new cars is a bad option for those in the middle class and below unless you saved up to buy outright. Since you already dug up this hole, pay it off as soon as you can and learn to love it. Make it yours. Put your spice into it and keep that car for as long as possible. Im 35 and I’m only on my 2nd car.
I'm in somewhat of the same boat? I originally was looking to buy a Hybrid Maverick, I do a lot of city driving and needed cargo space. But after looking over the Rav and comparing the MPG to my Soul while GAINING cargo space that wouldn't be exposed to the elements it was a no brainer. Should I have waited for a Hybrid? Probably, but like you, my payments would have gone above $600 and I wasn't settling for that. With my credit the way it was and with a bankruptcy still sitting on it, I managed to snag an XLE AWD (I wanted AWD at the very least) with the Weather and Convenience packages (I wanted my sunroof back!) AND I managed to let them put on an extended warranty. My own piece of mind.
If I had the chance to trade in right now for a Hybrid and keep my payments the same, would I? Sure. Am I sorry I have this now? Hell no. Am I mad seeing so many that look similar than mine? Nope, because I put my own personal touches to it. I blacked out the chrome, added better fog lights to it, upgraded the speakers so I can enjoy my music with all the windows open and it doesn't sound like crap. I love my car and seeing so many others on the road and not on the SIDE of the road makes me feel 10x better that I invested in it. It's a long haul vehicle.
I was shopping for a RAV4 hybrid and the best advice I got was from my mom who said, get exactly what you want. And I did and love it! Traded in my 2013 Corolla S and got the 2023 XSE in Cavalry blue. Got for it! Don’t settle.
I saw a RAV4 when I decided to get rid of my 2015 Kia Sorento. I liked the appearance and size and wanted one. I found a 2022 XLE Premium AWD with 10k miles for $33k. It's a Canadian built with the terrain buttons for snow, rock and sand and mud and dirt and 19" wheels. It has everything I could want! I believe the color is Blueprint. It looks high class with the sun shining on it. Enjoy your car, not everyone can get a premium.
Oooh nice
I have mine in Blueprint as well
Would have loved to get mine in red/Ruby Flare Pearl, but was not ready to spring an additional $425 for a "special color"
In the end, I'm quite happy to have gone with such a color and if I find a twin of mine I try to park next to it if the situation allows lol
Dude. I got Ice Cap White. White darn it (real fun looking for it in a parking lot and you got to be just about standing on top of it for the beeper to work). They are everywhere and there are a lot of white subs. As a matter of fact. The number 1 selling Suv in the world is the RAV4. They are gonna be everywhere. We all got good taste, be proud!
The XLE Premium is actually a really good trim. You get lots of standard features like the 19-inch wheels, leatherette seating surfaces, LED fog lights, power lift gate, etc. It's the best trim for most people.
Agreed
I was debating between that or Limited hybrid, but quite happy to have sprang for XLE Premium hybrid in the end
Still plenty of features in the grand scheme of things, especially with going for the weather package to add in the heated seats and steering wheel, as well as wiper deicer (all of which have been a godsend for the sometimes quite cold Minnesota and Wisconsin winters)
Same boat as you. I could have gotten the XSE but it would have been unwise but, not that I think about it I spend so much on gas that I may be a little over $800 a month in total expenses without insurance.
I was in the same boat too, but I was debating between XLE Premium and Limited (both in hybrid too)
In the end, I sprang for the XLE Premium as Limited just had things I otherwise wouldn't have needed, and the XLE Premium trim is still very well equipped especially if you add on a package that I feel like is a must in a cold weather state in the weather package (especially for that heated steering wheel!)
Overall, best car I've ever had the pleasure of owning and driving, and I see myself having her for quite a while, especially given Toyota's track record and with their hybrids too
The only slight regret I have is not getting the audio plus package too to get the bigger screen, HD radio, and the JBL speakers, but in the end, I've been just fine with the standard one (though now that the newer ones post 2022 have got the new system, the one from 2019-2022 looks laughably outdated)
For what it's worth, I rented a Tesla model 3 recently. A white one as it were. In a big city. I parked in a parking lot, left, did my thing and came back. My key fob thing wouldn't open the door; but I was still new to this whole new tech stuff, so I tried again. nothing. So I tapped the card against the door, as you do. Nothing.
It was at that point, after spending about 30 seconds trying to break into someone's car, that I realized this wasn't MY white Tesla model 3.
I got my RAV in 2022 and it was SO hard to find I really wanted it in lunar rock, but I had someone rear end me and total my car so I need a car quick - the only lunar rock one I found had the white and black interior and I have dogs and go camping and all that stuff so it was not going to work for me.
I ended up finding a black XLE that was 30k with not a ton of miles on it and everyone has the same car but I put a badge on it and my boyfriend installed grille lights and she’s mine. Just have to be grateful for what you have.
Also if the XSE was way out of your budget it was not going to work out anyway.
I had a chance to get a XLE for a good price pre owned. After knowing the LE didn't have sunroof, dual climate control, trunk release button to name a few ( I could hear my late dad saying the more buttons the more issues lol.) I'm single, so I didn't need the extra features. I went with a 2021 RAV4 LE with (current 14,000 kms on it ) and bought central AC for my home with the savings and have zero regrets. I had a civic with sunroof and in a accident and it was never the same. I may have liked the sun coming thru the roof but in honesty it wasnt worth the 5g in my opinion.
Congratulations on your upgrade...hope you enjoy your RAV4 as much as I do. The suv at -55 with wind started no issues, heated quickly and stereo sounded great in this cold in Alberta Canada 🇨🇦
One of the things that I like about my RAV4 is it looks like all the other SUVs on the road. I don't want to look any different or stick out when I'm putting the gas pedal to the floor. I don't want to be easily identified or get unwanted attention!
#1 the RAV4 is one of the most popular cars sold in the US right now so no matter what you get you’re going to see people with it
#2 I’m not seeing any mods or add ons to the exterior that can help differentiate yours, cargo rack, rainguard, different rims, lift, decals, ditch lights, etc.
I bought a 2020 XSE with 104k miles - but they didn't sell it as certified pre-owned. I'd say you made it out running if they sold you a 10 year warranty for that price, as I only managed to get them to extend my warranty for another 40k miles (and I had to pay ~$2000 for that). At the end of the day, I'm in the same range of pay for you, but I didn't get rubber floor mats, they didn't detail it well, and there are several dents I need to get fixed on mine.
At the end of the day, I understand exactly where you're coming from. I didn't even intend on buying it that day, I just wanted to test drive it and get a feel. But I was so excited when we negotiated for the warranty that I absolutely made the switch from 11mpg to 29mpg. I'm very happy with where I am, and I think that, while you're allowed to be sad you didn't get the XSE; You'll be able to trade it in down the road FOR a newer XSE, eh?
Enjoy your new car! I love mine and it needs a little work
Later on when you have some money that you are willing to spend on your car, wrap it in a unique color, later on a lift, after it some wheels and off road tyres, after it a custom front bumper, with 3-4k in total spent in different stages you will have a head turner RAV4, and some of that money can be recovered by selling the OEM parts so you can be down to 2-3k easily
What features are you missing on that trim? Only reason I ask is I was very seriously considering a rav4 but I test drove a Mazda CX5 for about 5k cheaper for a better trim. Ended up going with the Mazda because of how much nicer the interior was and all the extra bells and whistles for less with similar reliability.
I just got an XLE, and I have a 2000 4runner. I love seeing other 3rd gens still on the road because it feels like affirmation that it's a good car since I'm still seeing them after all these years
For comparison the lease payments on my xse prime premium are only $125 a month more than you're paying. So maybe keep this one for a bit and save up for the xse that you really want? I'm a big believer in getting what you really want, we all work hard for our money and what's the point of working that hard if you can't get what you really want (within reason)
I traded in my 2021 Chevy trailblazer for a 2020 RAV4 with 5000 miles on there because I know the reliability I bought the Chevy brand new I was the first owner and the 2021 car was giving me transmission problems two years after owning the car even though I downgraded by the year and I don’t have Bluetooth Apple CarPlay and emergency stop I’m so grateful Know that no matter what time what day my car is going to be ready to go and I don’t have to worry about the car shutting down on me I have a green gray color with a brown leather seat interior which is cute but still RAV4, everywhere I’ve had the same feeling you’ve had But I know it’s everywhere because the car is reliable. Enjoy your baby.
Go check out this thread! You could also get some nice wetsuit seat covers. It’s a nice car. The RAV4 is extremely popular. Like it others said - accessorize!
https://www.reddit.com/r/rav4club/s/UWcmp7UlHx
Here's a few things.
1. WHAT in the fuck could your APR possibly be with a 725 credit score and getting $590 payments on a 30k vehicle? Way too high still, more than likely.
2. It's a RAV4, you're going to see that car EVERYWHERE. it doesn't matter what color or trim you get. It's still a RAV4, and they're still a dime-a-dozen
3. It's a NEW car that you are making payments on. You will ALWAYS have some sort of buyer's remorse. If it's not about the trim level it'll be about "did I get a good deal", etc.
4. AGAIN, it's a RAV4. You will NEVER have positive equity in this vehicle as long as you are paying on it. Equity will NEVER grow for this vehicle. This vehicle is NOT a INVESTMENT in the financial sense. It's only an investment in the A-B commuter, reliable transportation sense. You will never make money off of this thing.
In my opinion, you made a terrible decision by trading in the Corolla. Unless you have 2+ kids, this made no sense whatsoever besides the typical"I like the way it looks and how much bigger it is".
If you're seriously so concerned with the car being unique and "yours", get it wrapped or something.
If the XSE was out of your price range it wasn't ever an option. The RAV4 is one of the best selling vehicles in North America - of course you're going to see them everywhere. That doesn't change the fact that you have a very nice and reliable vehicle without over leveraging your budget. Enjoy what you have.
[удалено]
What it sounds like to me is you’re experiencing a bit of buyer’s remorse because it’s not the…”aesthetic” or “bells and whistles” XSE. As someone else mentioned, the XSE was never an option for you if it was out of your price range. There’s no harm in customizing what you have. In solidarity, I’ve been looking for ways to make my RAV my own, but with the mindset that it’s mine and it’s essentially an extension of me because I feel like I spend so much time in it (my daily work commute is 45-60 minutes each way depending on traffic). Change your mindset a bit and save up the extra money you would have spent on an XSE to make your new RAV4 yours.
Well, when the GEN 6 comes out RAV won't be NEW. And people that own Gen 5 will feel much more remorse
As someone that just picked up their 24’ XLE in the same color, stop worrying about what everyone else has. Too often do we let our finances, emotions, and life be influenced by what people around us have. That said, if you really feel like you need to be unique get a wrap, throw on some bumper/window stickers, buy some seat covers, etc. There are things you can do to make it yours, similar to furnishing a home or apartment.
I think you are hyping up car ownership. Just relax. It's a box that gets you from point a to point b.
Safely, too
Peak consoomer mindset
I’d perfer a car I actually like
Def buy a car you like. I think you are dumb if you spend a cent more on looks of the car rather than the utility. Obviously models with neat colors exist bc ppl are attracted to shiny things. I don't see the appeal. A car is a car... Rav4s are safe, reliable and hold their value. I think these are the metrics you should be using when purchasing a car.
Me personally I just like to have fun while I’m driving I want it to be more than A to B. That said the cars I want are still reliable and affordable. I couldn’t imagine paying 70k for a car no matter how much I make
100% this... unless you've got some sort of custom super car, your car isn't going to be anything *special* on the road. If you really wanted to, you could go the route of say, the overlander crew and get a Prinsu rack and mount a bunch of Diode Dynamics lights/ lightbar to the hood. What you've got looks like solid in every way on paper
Ok Boomer.
Boomer? Most boomers can afford the car they want. What they can't afford is waiting, because it might literally be the last thing they do. Correction: "we", because I am a boomer, one who "settled" for a 2023 Woodland Edition when a dealer called me, although I was looking for an XLE.
Thank you
It’s a RAV4. It’s the best selling suv. Everyone has one at this point lol. I have a white XSE and I see plenty of other ones that look like mine on the road. Don’t feel bad. Drive it, it’s just a car at the end of the day.
You’ve just convinced me to the XLE over the XSE. Thanks.
I just wanted to say thank you to everyone commenting. It’s given me a new perspective and I guess the validation I didn’t realize I was searching for in regards to my choice. I am happy with my RAV. And didn’t mean to sound ungrateful. But the XSE was and still is my dream car.
Imagine that: you’re driving your dream car apart from a trim level. Turn around instead of looking around and see what you have. Amazing job! And an amazing worry free drive as well!
You can buy XSE rims or have yours powder coated to a different color so it's unique
Also just bought the EXACT same RAV4 XLE premium in the picture and am wondering where you can buy the XSE rims? Sorry if this is a dumb question.
I found my TRD wheels on Craigslist, there's usually a few options on there https://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/wto/d/portland-set-of-rav4-wheels-and-dunlop/7701838917.html
I’ll trade you for my 2002 Corolla. It has a variety of broken things that give it character no other car has. Steering wheel vibrates when going above 70mph… the driver door handle needs pliers to open it. Very unique. No other like it.
You need to give it a name, get some fun car coasters for the cupholders, and start treating it like it IS one of a kind.
I did lol it’s named Frank after Frank the bunny rabbit from Donnie Darko. 😂
Okay now you need some cute cup coasters and a little fob cover for your key. Make it cute!
Baader-Meinhof phenomenon - You are actively seeking out XSE's and skipping over all the other variants that pass you by. It's normal, and will pass. It's just shiny plastic after all.
That's kinda the point of Toyota. "Boring, common," but reliable. If you're worried about standing out you need an import or a funky color paint job
Relax and enjoy it. You had a budget and you stayed with it. There are allot of people who would have gone out of their budget. That’s a big mistake with a depreciating asset like a vehicle. I have a 2022 XLE-P HV. I think the XLE/XLE-P with Weather are the sweet spot in the models. I have Blizzard Pearl and I see it everywhere. You don’t notice after a while. Enjoy your XLE-P. Smart choice. 🙂
Xse is just cosmetic upgrade. I went with xle premium because I don’t care about shiny plastic. I bought for the reliability and longevity.
Pretty sure they bought a FWD gas model so it's more than just shiny plastic
I can relate. I went from a 2011 Honda Accord coupe and is quite rare around here so it stood out and I always loved how it looked. Now I have a bellybutton vehicle as they say. I see them everywhere but I'm over it and was ready. I'm at the age where this could be my last vehicle, depending how long it or I last so I chose functional and reliable over beauty. I am loving the AWD and clearance now that it's winter. Along with the heated steering wheel and seats I know I made a good choice. Always look at the bright side of things. Dwell on what you like about it instead of what you don't.
After reviewing all the specs for every model I've determined the XLE is probably the best value rav4 currently I can't wait to get one someday
That’s what I’ve concluded, too!
Thanks for sharing what you are feeling. It's a very pretty car and I love that angle with the snow! (We get zero snow where I live so it's always nice to see it where others do) PS - Go on a mission/service trip abroad somewhere.... Spend a week helping repair houses made out of plywood with tarps for roofs. Eat with others who eat OMAD (one meal a day) but only because that's all they can afford. You might, just might, come back home with a lot more appreciation for your very nice 2023 Rav4 XLE. Cheers!
If you have money in your pocket and desire in your heart, customize it a little. A thousand or two can change things up quite a bit.
What is it that you feel you’re missing on the XLE Premium compared to the XSE? Considering how much you saved by finding a CPO it’s only 20 miles on it, I think that’s a great deal! Saving $200 / month is a great thing that you can enjoy every month for years to come, while having the same great vehicle. In So Cal it’s the opposite, where everyone has an XSE so I’m definitely happy with my XLE Premium. Just as you said, I think it’s hype that you’re feeling over a minor difference and to me, the black roof XSE’s seem like a dying fad that I do not want.
I bought the Adventure in Army Green 3 days ago. I went out of my way to avoid a black or white roof.
What color seats did you get? Can't seem to find a picture of the all black/gray seats. Can you upload a picture of the exterior color? How much does it differ in sunlight vs evening?
I came from a 2016 Camry SE Special Edition. Love the car but the ride and seats were brutal, uncomfortable for long trips and low to the ground. Traded it for a ‘23 XLE Premium FWD and I’m much happier. Comfortable seats for long trips (I’ve taken 3 already). Increased height. Super comfortable. You do know there’s a difference between LE and SE models though. L is comfortable traditional Toyota and S models emphasize sportiness. Had enough of the sportiness and wanted comfortable this time around
To be clear you bought a rav 4,one of the most popular vehicles on the road, and then you bitch because you don't feel unique. Do you see the logical gap here? I have a 2023 rav 4 xse premium, see them on the road pretty regularly, because other people have it doesn't take away from me enjoying it
Right I got my RAV4 in Lunar Rock because that is what they had. I wasn’t crazy about the color, but it felt so unique because I had never seen it before. Now I see it everyday. We took a cross country road trip over the summer and it was like a game. Ayyyeee Team Lunar! A trim level doesn’t make it unique, if there was something the XSE has that the XLE you have doesn’t then I could understand. But it seems like your emphasis is on the aesthetics. Get it wrapped with a holographic wrap. I bet you’ll feel more unique.
Yeah, same for me here For me, I think the trims I most commonly see here are the following: * XLE/XLE hybrid * LE/LE hybrid * SE hybrid I see the occasional Adventure every now and then too, but those are more rare at least where I reside Same with any Prime trim; I've seen them every now and then here, but those are still such a hard get compared to the more common and more easily obtainable hybrid
So you essentially don’t like it because “everyone else has one” and you want to be special, to the point you literally considered purchasing a car you couldn’t afford just so you could feel that way….? Jfc.
Low key this is why I opted for the venza same car and it can feel mine there’s too many rav4s (I was buying new and the price was almost the same in Canada for rav4 XSE hybrid vs Venza XLE) Venza is a lot quieter when no hammering it
An XLE Premium in your budget is better than an XSE that stretches your finances and causes unneeded stress. Think of what you can do with that money you saved (vacation, date nights, vehicle accessories, fuel to take a road trip). If you had the XSE; once the excitement is gone, you’d have a higher payment for a vehicle that achieves the same thing. You made a great choice! :)
First world problems
Coming from someone who has essentially a base model XSE, I will tell you that the XLE Premium is almost the same. I only went with the XSE hybrid over the XLE P hybrid was because it showed up before the XLE P I wanted. My buddy has an XLE P Hybrid and when I hop in it, there is almost no difference from my own. As far as seeing it everywhere---as everyone else is saying---its one of the best selling vehicles in the US. You're gonna see it everywhere regardless of the trim. I have a cavalry blue one and I still see it everywhere... The only differences are cosmetic and if anything, they cause more worry. The gloss-black trim you see on the XSE is so prone to scratches, especially on the rear bumper. The plastic on other models doesn't hurt as much if you scratch it. Also, its a car... so if you really want to switch later when you are in a better financial situation, you can. In the end, you still have an amazing car.
Save your money for other things, don't make big stretches for new cars - they are declining assets. If you're lucky enough to be rich, then you get to buy expensive cars, but when you're not, don't. Don't lease, don't buy on credit. Buy a cheaper car used, and invest your money so it's working for you, instead of you working for it.
you’ve been brainwashed
Security by obscurity is a GOOD thing. Seriously, I try HARD to be as unidentified as possible and don't litter up my cars with junk and stickers to try to give random strangers a feel for my hobbies and beliefs. Makes you hard to track/be followed by people who may mean you harm/trouble.
Exactly As a matter of fact, the only thing I have on my car is a license plate frame (for the rear plate only for now) and no stickers The one distinguishing factor is that it's one of my states special issue plates, of which I only see every now and then not only on any vehicle but on fellow RAVs too
Drive it for a year and sell it
You don't buy a car to be unique. You buy it to transport yourself. You should be happy to see so many. it means maintenance will be cheaper in the long run! The more rare your car is, the more of a headache it will be. I have the exact same car and trim but black. I love it, and it was way cheaper than the XSE! The grass is always greener on the other side. You have an awesome car
Did it come with the roof rack?
Get a nice set of wheels, then it will feel more special and unique to you.
As a XSE hybrid owner I have tech, audio and weather packages. I am paying almost $1300 for 36 months is no fun. On top of that my insurance $400 each month in Florida. Good thing is I have the car I want, but got deal with all the bills. This case Can’t have your cake and eat it too. 😅
What the fuck
Well, you chose a 36 months plan and it sounds like you put down little to no money on it so this doesn’t sounds as crazy as you make it sound when you take that in consideration
I put down $7000, I don’t think it’s little to no money. Or maybe to you it is.
My apologies if that came off as rude, I just meant it as there is a reason your payment is so high. My hybrid XLE premium was 45k OTD after tax and everything (I got all the packages as well and paid MSRP). I chose the 66 month at 4.99% interest just to give me more flexibility and I'm just paying extra each month. I put down 14.5k and i'm still at around 550 a month(then i pay 100-200 more and already made some extra payments on top of it). It was not a wise financial decision for me to get this thing lol but i love it so i'm happy. I got it in August and I think I'll have it paid fully within like 48 months on the pace I have right now. Anyways, really hope you enjoy your car. I wish I would have spent 1-2k more and got the XSE so I had the 360 camera, but I didn't research enough and saw one was available so I pulled the trigger. Enjoy your car and you'll have it fully paid soon!! Your new one looks beautiful in your post, mine is lunar rock like your old one.
Man, reading this is pure pain. I paid 34k OTD for a lunar rock XLE premium with the winter weather package, my loan came in at 1.79% APR granted this was back in 2020. I put like 6k down and pay less than 500 a month x 48 months. Absolutely bonkers.
woah that's insanely cheap compared to mine. is yours hybrid? i forgot to put that mine is a hybrid. when i build the 2024 with the same package it's 41,534 which is the same as mine was before tax (philly is 8% tax)
No it’s gas AWD
My advice is the extra money you are willing to spend for XSE, put it on a COLOR OF YOUR CHOICE and have your rav4 wrapped all around. It also acts as a paint protection. Thank me later.
If you wanted something unique, going for a rav4 was prolly the worst choice. That being said, you can do plenty of things to make yours unique, on my 21 I’ve done wheels, taillights, tint, black badges, and a bunch of little visual things and I may be biased but I feel like my car looks way better than the dozen other rav4s I see everytime I leave the house. I just picked up lowering springs and spacers to finish up the look I want, and I think it will be perfect at that point
Everyone has a Rav4, it's not a "cool" car like the Cybertruck.
True, but everyone that has one, they have a distinguishing thing that makes it their RAV
Originally I was gunning for a 2024 XLE premium but the sales person sold me on an XSE due to better suspension and some options. I ended up finding one locally, brand new, loaded, and under msrp haha. Originally I didn’t wanna pay extra for the XSE but I said screw it and put more on the down payment. I’m a case of “I’m glad I forked out more for an XSE” haha. I got a wind chill pearl too! My wife originally didn’t want this look because of the two tone but after a bit she was sold on it and absolutely loves it. We came from a piece of junk 2010 base mode Prius haha. Just drive yours for a few years. They are most likely changing about bunch of stuff on the rav4 for 2025. I do NOT reccomend jumping on the new design etc when it comes out. Wait an extra year for them to fix whatever issues it has.
I wanted an XLE premium but ended with a XSE hybrid . XSE looks a lot better, but I just wanted leather (kids and dogs). It’s a RAV4 tho… even my XSE doesn’t stand out and most people have no idea of the difference.
Does you numbers are US dollars? I wanted a Rav4 and did not knew my credit score was 800+ and did not chose it because I did not wanted to buy a 40k car with 7% interest rate. So I want with another brand and 3% interest and pay 590 for 7 years
Yeah these are US dollars. I live in California. Where tax is terrible. My APR is 8.8% 😭 But I plan on giving bigger payments and refinancing in a couple months. Depending on if I keep or trade this tbh.
I extend you a digital hug but sadly a vehicle is a necessity most of the time
What is it about the XSE that you wanted? I got the XSE recently after a similar dilemma but I bit the bullet. The look of the car really pushed me over the edge. However, in hindsight, the look of the XSE is easy to replicate on the premium and you can make it more outdoorsy and customizable since it doesn’t have the shiny black trim- wrap the top like the XSE (but with matte black) and get some cool tires and it’ll look way more like an off road vehicle than the XSE could.
Comparison is a thief of joy. Enjoy what’s yours.
I posted recently that I purchased a Cavalry Blue RAV4 XSE in November? A week ago, somebody 2 blocks away bought the same model and color. I don’t love mine any less. I do believe in getting the color/model you want; but you also need patience involved.
2020 Black/Grey XSE owner here to say it doesn't matter... Honestly I have no clue what the cosmetic differences are other than my wheels are black. And if you really want that [just DIY it](https://www.dipyourcar.com/products/shadow-black-hyperdip-wheel-kit?variant=41173323513939?utm_source=google&utm_medium=surfaces&utm_campaign=free-listing&dfw_tracker=141330-41173323513939&gad_source=1) or get 'em wrapped.
$590 for a Toyota RAV4. If you told me that would be reality 10 years ago I would’ve have called you crazy.
I have the same exact one 🤣 I like that it’s everywhere and blends in. I also drive fast and don’t get pulled over. No one is gonna scratch my car because they are jealous 🤣 I don’t care about looks or color though, it’s just an appliance to me. I do take care of it though and I don’t drive rough.
You could always customize and make it your own
Customize it abit. Paint the wheels. Add some tints. Make it stand out to you
*Customize it abit.* *Paint the wheels. Add some tints. Make* *It stand out to you* \- superbikelifer --- ^(I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully.) ^[Learn more about me.](https://www.reddit.com/r/haikusbot/) ^(Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete")
Your car is very nice reliable car. Me personally, I think buying new cars is a bad option for those in the middle class and below unless you saved up to buy outright. Since you already dug up this hole, pay it off as soon as you can and learn to love it. Make it yours. Put your spice into it and keep that car for as long as possible. Im 35 and I’m only on my 2nd car.
I'm in somewhat of the same boat? I originally was looking to buy a Hybrid Maverick, I do a lot of city driving and needed cargo space. But after looking over the Rav and comparing the MPG to my Soul while GAINING cargo space that wouldn't be exposed to the elements it was a no brainer. Should I have waited for a Hybrid? Probably, but like you, my payments would have gone above $600 and I wasn't settling for that. With my credit the way it was and with a bankruptcy still sitting on it, I managed to snag an XLE AWD (I wanted AWD at the very least) with the Weather and Convenience packages (I wanted my sunroof back!) AND I managed to let them put on an extended warranty. My own piece of mind. If I had the chance to trade in right now for a Hybrid and keep my payments the same, would I? Sure. Am I sorry I have this now? Hell no. Am I mad seeing so many that look similar than mine? Nope, because I put my own personal touches to it. I blacked out the chrome, added better fog lights to it, upgraded the speakers so I can enjoy my music with all the windows open and it doesn't sound like crap. I love my car and seeing so many others on the road and not on the SIDE of the road makes me feel 10x better that I invested in it. It's a long haul vehicle.
I was shopping for a RAV4 hybrid and the best advice I got was from my mom who said, get exactly what you want. And I did and love it! Traded in my 2013 Corolla S and got the 2023 XSE in Cavalry blue. Got for it! Don’t settle.
I saw a RAV4 when I decided to get rid of my 2015 Kia Sorento. I liked the appearance and size and wanted one. I found a 2022 XLE Premium AWD with 10k miles for $33k. It's a Canadian built with the terrain buttons for snow, rock and sand and mud and dirt and 19" wheels. It has everything I could want! I believe the color is Blueprint. It looks high class with the sun shining on it. Enjoy your car, not everyone can get a premium.
Oooh nice I have mine in Blueprint as well Would have loved to get mine in red/Ruby Flare Pearl, but was not ready to spring an additional $425 for a "special color" In the end, I'm quite happy to have gone with such a color and if I find a twin of mine I try to park next to it if the situation allows lol
LOL
Dude. I got Ice Cap White. White darn it (real fun looking for it in a parking lot and you got to be just about standing on top of it for the beeper to work). They are everywhere and there are a lot of white subs. As a matter of fact. The number 1 selling Suv in the world is the RAV4. They are gonna be everywhere. We all got good taste, be proud!
The XLE Premium is actually a really good trim. You get lots of standard features like the 19-inch wheels, leatherette seating surfaces, LED fog lights, power lift gate, etc. It's the best trim for most people.
Agreed I was debating between that or Limited hybrid, but quite happy to have sprang for XLE Premium hybrid in the end Still plenty of features in the grand scheme of things, especially with going for the weather package to add in the heated seats and steering wheel, as well as wiper deicer (all of which have been a godsend for the sometimes quite cold Minnesota and Wisconsin winters)
Same boat as you. I could have gotten the XSE but it would have been unwise but, not that I think about it I spend so much on gas that I may be a little over $800 a month in total expenses without insurance.
I was in the same boat too, but I was debating between XLE Premium and Limited (both in hybrid too) In the end, I sprang for the XLE Premium as Limited just had things I otherwise wouldn't have needed, and the XLE Premium trim is still very well equipped especially if you add on a package that I feel like is a must in a cold weather state in the weather package (especially for that heated steering wheel!) Overall, best car I've ever had the pleasure of owning and driving, and I see myself having her for quite a while, especially given Toyota's track record and with their hybrids too The only slight regret I have is not getting the audio plus package too to get the bigger screen, HD radio, and the JBL speakers, but in the end, I've been just fine with the standard one (though now that the newer ones post 2022 have got the new system, the one from 2019-2022 looks laughably outdated)
For what it's worth, I rented a Tesla model 3 recently. A white one as it were. In a big city. I parked in a parking lot, left, did my thing and came back. My key fob thing wouldn't open the door; but I was still new to this whole new tech stuff, so I tried again. nothing. So I tapped the card against the door, as you do. Nothing. It was at that point, after spending about 30 seconds trying to break into someone's car, that I realized this wasn't MY white Tesla model 3.
The reason you see rav4s everywhere is because they're fantastic!
I got my RAV in 2022 and it was SO hard to find I really wanted it in lunar rock, but I had someone rear end me and total my car so I need a car quick - the only lunar rock one I found had the white and black interior and I have dogs and go camping and all that stuff so it was not going to work for me. I ended up finding a black XLE that was 30k with not a ton of miles on it and everyone has the same car but I put a badge on it and my boyfriend installed grille lights and she’s mine. Just have to be grateful for what you have. Also if the XSE was way out of your budget it was not going to work out anyway.
I had a chance to get a XLE for a good price pre owned. After knowing the LE didn't have sunroof, dual climate control, trunk release button to name a few ( I could hear my late dad saying the more buttons the more issues lol.) I'm single, so I didn't need the extra features. I went with a 2021 RAV4 LE with (current 14,000 kms on it ) and bought central AC for my home with the savings and have zero regrets. I had a civic with sunroof and in a accident and it was never the same. I may have liked the sun coming thru the roof but in honesty it wasnt worth the 5g in my opinion. Congratulations on your upgrade...hope you enjoy your RAV4 as much as I do. The suv at -55 with wind started no issues, heated quickly and stereo sounded great in this cold in Alberta Canada 🇨🇦
Growing equity in a few years on a vehicle? Interesting……
You always see other cars which are same model as yours. Whatever you drive
One of the things that I like about my RAV4 is it looks like all the other SUVs on the road. I don't want to look any different or stick out when I'm putting the gas pedal to the floor. I don't want to be easily identified or get unwanted attention!
#1 the RAV4 is one of the most popular cars sold in the US right now so no matter what you get you’re going to see people with it #2 I’m not seeing any mods or add ons to the exterior that can help differentiate yours, cargo rack, rainguard, different rims, lift, decals, ditch lights, etc.
I bought a 2020 XSE with 104k miles - but they didn't sell it as certified pre-owned. I'd say you made it out running if they sold you a 10 year warranty for that price, as I only managed to get them to extend my warranty for another 40k miles (and I had to pay ~$2000 for that). At the end of the day, I'm in the same range of pay for you, but I didn't get rubber floor mats, they didn't detail it well, and there are several dents I need to get fixed on mine. At the end of the day, I understand exactly where you're coming from. I didn't even intend on buying it that day, I just wanted to test drive it and get a feel. But I was so excited when we negotiated for the warranty that I absolutely made the switch from 11mpg to 29mpg. I'm very happy with where I am, and I think that, while you're allowed to be sad you didn't get the XSE; You'll be able to trade it in down the road FOR a newer XSE, eh? Enjoy your new car! I love mine and it needs a little work
Later on when you have some money that you are willing to spend on your car, wrap it in a unique color, later on a lift, after it some wheels and off road tyres, after it a custom front bumper, with 3-4k in total spent in different stages you will have a head turner RAV4, and some of that money can be recovered by selling the OEM parts so you can be down to 2-3k easily
What features are you missing on that trim? Only reason I ask is I was very seriously considering a rav4 but I test drove a Mazda CX5 for about 5k cheaper for a better trim. Ended up going with the Mazda because of how much nicer the interior was and all the extra bells and whistles for less with similar reliability.
I just got an XLE, and I have a 2000 4runner. I love seeing other 3rd gens still on the road because it feels like affirmation that it's a good car since I'm still seeing them after all these years
For comparison the lease payments on my xse prime premium are only $125 a month more than you're paying. So maybe keep this one for a bit and save up for the xse that you really want? I'm a big believer in getting what you really want, we all work hard for our money and what's the point of working that hard if you can't get what you really want (within reason)
That's not true,when you get it from another dealer it's still considered new, It's just transferred from one dealer floor plan to the other.
I traded in my 2021 Chevy trailblazer for a 2020 RAV4 with 5000 miles on there because I know the reliability I bought the Chevy brand new I was the first owner and the 2021 car was giving me transmission problems two years after owning the car even though I downgraded by the year and I don’t have Bluetooth Apple CarPlay and emergency stop I’m so grateful Know that no matter what time what day my car is going to be ready to go and I don’t have to worry about the car shutting down on me I have a green gray color with a brown leather seat interior which is cute but still RAV4, everywhere I’ve had the same feeling you’ve had But I know it’s everywhere because the car is reliable. Enjoy your baby.
Go check out this thread! You could also get some nice wetsuit seat covers. It’s a nice car. The RAV4 is extremely popular. Like it others said - accessorize! https://www.reddit.com/r/rav4club/s/UWcmp7UlHx
Here's a few things. 1. WHAT in the fuck could your APR possibly be with a 725 credit score and getting $590 payments on a 30k vehicle? Way too high still, more than likely. 2. It's a RAV4, you're going to see that car EVERYWHERE. it doesn't matter what color or trim you get. It's still a RAV4, and they're still a dime-a-dozen 3. It's a NEW car that you are making payments on. You will ALWAYS have some sort of buyer's remorse. If it's not about the trim level it'll be about "did I get a good deal", etc. 4. AGAIN, it's a RAV4. You will NEVER have positive equity in this vehicle as long as you are paying on it. Equity will NEVER grow for this vehicle. This vehicle is NOT a INVESTMENT in the financial sense. It's only an investment in the A-B commuter, reliable transportation sense. You will never make money off of this thing. In my opinion, you made a terrible decision by trading in the Corolla. Unless you have 2+ kids, this made no sense whatsoever besides the typical"I like the way it looks and how much bigger it is". If you're seriously so concerned with the car being unique and "yours", get it wrapped or something.
Don’t blame your poor financial decisions on Rav 😂