The Toyota RAV4 is a small sport-utility vehicle, the smallest of Toyota's large family of SUVs. The RAV4 was one of the first entries in the crossover SUV market, which has become much more competitive over the years. Next to its competitors, some of which are in their first generation, today's third-generation RAV4 benefits from years of refinement and a strong reputation for reliability.
We have always described the Toyota RAV4 as possessing favorable on-road manners, good ergonomics and a high level of quality, even if that comes at the expense of macho styling and off-road prowess. It has the comfort and drivability of car-based architecture and benefits from fuel-efficient engines. As such, this highly evolved, well-packaged crossover SUV is best matched to young families and urban singles in search of a compact SUV that hits that sweet spot between car-based station wagons and truck-based SUVs.
Current Toyota RAV4
Carlike driving manners, versatile cargo and passenger configurations and comfort have all been defining RAV4 characteristics, and the latest version builds upon that solid foundation.
The Toyota RAV4 is offered with a choice of two engines, the standard being a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder that produces 179 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is the only available transmission, but buyers can select either front- or four-wheel-drive versions. An optional 3.5-liter V6 makes 269 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque, and is our engine of choice, as it achieves similar fuel economy to the weaker base engine. A five-speed automatic transmission is paired with the V6 and four-wheel drive is also optional.
In addition to the two engine choices, buyers can select among three RAV4 trim levels. Even in Base trim, the Toyota RAV4 is well equipped with power accessories, cruise control and a full suite of safety features, including stability control. Sport trim brings exterior enhancements, a sport-tuned suspension and bigger wheels. The Limited model adds numerous luxury features that include keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and an upgraded stereo. Most RAV4 options are grouped into packages and vary according to trim and region. A third-row seat is optional on all models, as is a back-up camera. Other add-ons include a sunroof, leather upholstery and Toyota's Entune smartphone integration with navigation.
In terms of space, the RAV4 excels, boasting more cargo room than most other competing SUVs. The rear seats recline and can slide fore and aft to optimize passenger space or cargo capacity. To configure the RAV4 for cargo, all you need to do is flip a lever in the cargo area to fold the second-row seats flat. The load floor is also quite low for this class, though the Toyota's tailgate can be an inconvenience when you're parked on the street, as it has hinges on the passenger side.
On the road, the RAV4's taut suspension and precise steering make daily errands a pleasant (although not particularly interesting) experience. The ride quality is also forgiving enough for commuters who drive on crumbling expressways. Road noise can be an issue, though, and in total the RAV4 seems less buttoned-down than some other small crossovers. The four-cylinder engine is a reasonable choice for most buyers, as it provides adequate power for day-to-day driving. However, its four-speed transmission and fuel economy are unimpressive, making the V6 our preferred choice.
Used Toyota RAV4 Models
The current Toyota RAV4 represents the third generation, which debuted for 2006. Compared to earlier models, this RAV4 is the largest, and the only one with an available V6 engine and a third-row seat. Changes since the debut have been minimal. In its second year, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags became standard (they were optional in '06). The RAV4 had a slightly different appearance prior to 2009, including no spare-tire delete option for the swing-out tailgate. Also, the standard four-cylinder engine found in 2006-'08 RAV4s was less powerful -- it displaced 2.4 liters and produced 166 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque.
The second-generation Toyota RAV4 (2001-'05) was larger, with more expressive styling and innovative removable second-row seats that gave it truly impressive cargo-carrying capabilities. Early models had a 148-hp, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that came up short versus the larger four- and six-cylinder engines offered by competitors. Toyota addressed this to some extent in 2004 by replacing the 2.0-liter with a larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 160 hp. Acceleration was markedly improved, and buyers could still choose a manual or automatic transmission. Overall, we found this RAV4 to be a fun-to-drive urban runabout thanks to its precise suspension tuning and high fuel economy ratings.
The first-generation Toyota RAV4 (1996-2000) was offered in two-door and four-door body styles, with a convertible version for a brief period. The first-gen RAV4 was appealing to young singles, but due to its narrow width and tight rear legroom, this cute ute was ultimately no substitute for a traditional family vehicle. Advantages included carlike handling, a low cargo floor and a large rear door that made loading cargo a breeze.
