Toyota Responds to Reports of RAV4 Failing ‘Moose Test’

The current generation of the Toyota RAV4 has a lot of features that are more than capable of competing against its rivals on the market. But despite all that, the model is far from perfect, as is recently shown by the “Moose Test” it underwent.

Based on the results of the infamous Swedish test, the RAV4 has difficulties when it comes to aggressive evasive maneuvers.

The model has a maximum speed of 42 miles per hour (69 kilometers per hour), as reported by Swedish magazine Teknikens Varld’s test. But according to the testers, the SUV showed “dangerous behavior” on the twisty cone course and that “the electronic stability control system engaged very late.” Both the gas-powered and hybrid versions of the RAV4 underwent testing and both also reportedly hopped up onto the outer two wheels multiple times.

“Toyota RAV4 has quick front end reactions when we turn left unto the lane,” Teknikens Varlds stated. “When we turn right it cuts in and the car goes up on two wheels… Toyota has once again released a product on the market that fails to perform safely through the moose test,” they added.

Toyota, however, was quick to defend the model.

“At Toyota, the safety of our customers is our number one priority, and to ensure their security, we apply strict safety tests during the development of all our products. Our internal tests fully meet the global standards for obstacle avoidance, and since 2016, we have updated our processes to also reflect the procedures used by Teknikens Varld,” the company said.

In 2007, Toyota also failed the Moose Test when its Hilux pickup almost flipped over during a stability control test at 35 mph. After the test results came out, Toyota issued a stop-sale order for the Hilux and began equipping the model with 16-inch wheels to improve grip.

In the United States, the Moose Test doesn’t seem to have much of an effect in terms of RAV4 sales and public opinion.