As one of the first car-based SUVs, Toyota's RAV4 helped define what has become an extraordinarily fast-growing segment.
First introduced for the 1995 model year, the RAV4 – Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel-drive - was redesigned for 2001 and then again for 2006. The current RAV4 was given a modest refresh which is expected to last until the all-new model arrives in a year.
Now substantially larger than earlier RAV4s, the RAV4 boasts an available third row of seats and a powerful optional V6 engine.
Available only with four doors, the RAV4 offers standard front and available all-wheel-drive. Its base engine is a 179-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, while a 269-horsepower 3.5- liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic shows up on the options list. Both engines are available with either drive system.
The optional all-wheel-drive is an on-demand setup, meaning a press of a dashboard-mounted button automatically sends power to the rear wheels when needed for maximum traction. Hill ascent control prevents the RAV4 from sliding backward on a step incline, while hill descent control lets it creep down steep terrain at a low speed without requiring the driver to depress the brakes. Despite all of these features, the RAV4 is best considered a light duty off roader for unpaved gravel roads and snow, not serious rock crawling.
Fuel economy ranges from a best of 22 city, 28 highway with the four-cylinder engine and 2WD, which drops slightly to 21 city, 27 highway with the addition of 4WD. Opt for the V6 and fuel economy starts at 19 city, 27 highway with 2WD, but drops to 26 highway with 4WD.
The RAV4 rides on a car-like unibody chassis with a fully independent suspension and it features power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Base models include 16-inch alloy wheels, but 17 and 18-inch wheels are an available upgrade. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard.
Base models come with standard steel wheels, color-keyed exterior trim, remote entry, air conditioning and power windows and locks. Two upgrade models are available, although both take slightly different paths.
The Sport model adds a performance-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted windows and a number of interior and exterior appearance upgrades.
Limited models feature the softer Base model suspension but add luxuries like automatic dual-zone climate control, Smart Key with push button start, leather coverings for the steering wheel and shift knob and 17-inch alloy wheels. Heated leather seats are an option.
A third row seating package is available on Base and Limited models. It includes two rear seats that fold away into the trunk floor when not used. Although the RAV4 has grown dimensionally over the years, its rear seats are best reserved for children or for occasional short distance adult use.
Both the four-cylinder and V6 powertrains are available on all trim levels.
Key Competitors
Rivals to the RAV4 include the capable Honda CR-V, the efficient Chevrolet Equinox as well as the popular Ford Escape.