Used 2002 Toyota RAV4 Consumer Reviews
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My Buddy Rav4
This car is great Toyota has really done a great job on the new Rav4 it drives great and rides like a car! You wont be disappointed!
Nothing to Ever Worry About
In 2.5 years I've put 61,000 miles on my beloved Rav4 and have never had one problem. I give it routine maintenance and drive it with confidence that it'll last me another 200,000 miles. Love that Toyota quality!
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,87518 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $10,50094 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,500190 mi away
So far, so good...
I've only had the car a couple weeks, but I'm enjoying it a lot. Its high enough off the ground and fast enough to keep up with the big boys. I hope it stays as smooth of a ride now as in 5 years when I can finally pay it off!
Good Rig
Good looks...Excellent handling...Below average performance
a perfect 10
Great dependable, economic, SUV. Comfort plenty of pep over the summit to Tahoe.
MY TOY
My sister purchased a 2001 Rav4 and I went with her when she picked it out and purchased. I immediately feel in love with it. I purchased my in September, 2001 and really enjoy driving it. It is perfect for me as I have arthritus in my knees and the fact that I can step down makes it alot easier.
Our Blue Ravioli
RAV4 offers SUV convenience yet great gas mileage of 24/city and 28/highway because the car runs in fifth except when you override it. Comparable makes offered 6-10 mpg less. We didnt see the economy until 10,000 miles. Other great features were the back, with low floor and side-closing door (and tire hangin on door.) A child can change clothes at the beach in complete privacy. It is shorter than the Corolla and easy to park. Difficult to find any color but silver or white, we finally found blue. The blue, green and red are stunning. With override button on the shifter, it gets us up hills quickly. This is a great family car.
Not so good Toyota
Rough ride, extremely noisy - cannot hear radio or people talk on the road, uncomfortable, cannot see the dashboard from the steering wheel, hard to fold/remove rear seats, not enough power/fade-out on hills.
my "toy"ota
I purchased this vehicle new and have been driving it for three years. My "toy"ota has been totally reliable. I have not had problems at all with any part of the vehicle. It is both fun and easy to drive because of it's size. I have documented an average of 28 mpg/gas on trips. I keep the vehicle clean and shiny and have had numerous comments on it's beauty. AND, it's a big hit with teenagers.
Little worker.
Comfortable for passengers even carrying four 6' adults. Solid build, reliable. A little underpowered, but adequate. Highly fuel efficient _for_ an SUV. Great traction in light to moderate snow.
Toyota has a winner with the new RAV4
I traded in a Jeep Grand Cherokee on this vehicle & I am happy with the additional interior room on the RAV4 as well as the performance. I use my RAV4 for commuting and mainly city driving. The RAV4 has more head room than the Jeep and is more nimble to park and to drive in traffic. Add to that approx. 24-29 MPG vs. the Jeep's 16-20 MPG and the fuel saving start to add up. I recommend this car for reliability, resale value, quality of the engine/transmission & for 1-2 passengers especially. Great vehicle.
It's Ravulous
I love to drive my Rav4. Fortunately, having a manual transmission helps with giving me that extra pick up when I need it and it helps me get excellent gas mileage. My Rav4 averages between 25-30 MPG in mixed driving situations. The only issue I had was with a computer chip that, once corrected, has not given me any more trouble. Although at times I have considered getting a new car, I'm having a hard time giving up a vehicle that has been so good to me. I wouldn't be surprised if it's still running after 200,000 miles. It has 80,000 miles already and still feels like a new car.
Love My Rav!
Wow what can I say!? I love my silver RAV4. Its been a pleasure to drive around the city and on the freeway. Initially I was a bit worried about the 4 cylinder engine, but I'll tell you that evn weighted down with apssengers and cargo I've been able to climb hills EASILY! Mileage is great in the city I get about 22 mpg. Don't listen to people who complain about this csr, I mean CONSUMER REPORTS RATED IT BEST FOR COMPACT SUVS! Thats right ahead of Ford Escape and even the new CRV!
My green eyed monster
You guys who get bad gas milage are trying way too hard!! I AVERAGE 30.5 mpg doing about 75 on the expressway and jumping off the line every chance I get. The automatic is lazy (found that out on the test drive), so opt for the 5-speed for a little more oomph.
Nice but. . .
I just bought the RAV-4, I think the car is cute and great to drive. But on long drives the seats are very uncomfortable.
Not bad for a compact SUV
Overall the RAV4 has been a nice car to drive around town in. The styling is attractive and it gets the gas mileage advertised. At 2 yrs. old the seal on my RAV's back window leaked and had to be replaced and the sunroof began leaking almost as soon as I got it. I've been told the backseats are terribly uncomfortable on long trips. My biggest complaint would be the hesitation in the transmission. The '02 RAV also has very little power. I understand that has been improved in the '04 model. Overall, it is fun to drive and gives the driver an excellent view of the road. It has a fabulous braking system and handles excellently.
The best option....
I purchased my RAV4 in August of '02 and I have had a great experience. I have friends that have large gas guzzler SUV's that think my RAV is too small. That is not the case. It has hauled everything from a 36" TV to all of our gear for a weekend of camping while getting 25 - 30 mpg. It is best balance of economy, cargo hauling capability and comfort.
My New-used RAV4
So far so Good!! This isn't the vehicle I originally planned on purchasing. A lot of people were telling me no don't get an Suv, they burn too much gas. But my Rav4 is just as good on gas mileage as my car was. It's comfortable and I like to sit up a bit higher now. For my needs it has plenty of room. Went on weekend get-away with my boyfriend and my dog; now the dog loves it too; he always wants to go for a ride in it. I like that being a Toyota it should retain its value fairly well. OVERALL SATISFIED; THE CONS ARE MINOR. luv4myrav4
Pretty Good Car
I've loved this car, mostly because it's just the right size for me. I can pack up half of my belongings and drive across the country (which I have to do occasionally because of my job), but I don't feel like I'm driving a tank around the city. I also feel confident that I'm not going to be stuck on the side of the road in the desert. The lack of power is a problem. Accelerating onto the freeway can be a little scary. Driving through the Rocky Mountains, I've felt like I might start rolling backward. Turning radius is amazing, though. My husband, who is very tall, thinks it's horribly uncomfortable to either ride or drive, especially over long distances.
It's Ravulous!
I love my Rav4. It's got plenty of room and great gas mileage. Since mine has a manual transmission it seems to have that extra pick up and it responds well. I still think it's a cool car to look at. It has some inexplicible dings and a little problem with the tire cover wearing out at the seams, and problems with the computer chips caused me to go back to the dealership a few times, but I still love my car.
A Great Small SUV That Rides Like a Car
It is very comfortable, fun to drive, and rides quite nicely. I am tall, but there is still plenty of head and leg room. It's easy to get in and out of. You can sit straight up and still reach the wheel easily. The gas mileage is very good, so you don't have to pay the price for sitting high like most trucks and SUV's. The acceleration is very good for driving around town and getting up to 35-45 MPH. It seems more like a sports car to drive than your typical truck or SUV. Some people have complained of rattles, but I haven't noticed anything that bothers me. The CR-V was nice, but this is much more fun to drive.
1st Time Toyota Buyer
I got rid of my '96 GMC Jimmy and bought the RAV4. The 4-cyl. has good acceleration and nimble handling. I'm dissapointed in the gas mileage--21 mpg in the city. I've tried switching to an 89 octane with no better results, so I'm sticking to 87. The rear headrests can block your view, so if you routinely drive alone, I'd suggest removing them for the clearest view. I'm tall--5'10" and there is plenty of leg room on the driver's side. Annoying rattle behind the glove compartment at speeds in excess of 30. Rear seats remove and reinstall with ease. Nice feature to haul around the dogs.
I Love My RAV4
I have liked my RAV4 since the day I bought it. It is a fun car to drive and is very reliable. I have under 25,000 miles on my RAV4 so I will have it for many years to come. I bought my RAV4 on-line and it was a very easy process. I was able to find the exact RAV4 I wanted, in the exact color I wanted. Buy one you'll like it.
Who need a Huge SUV?
This has been a great purchase. There is plenty of room inside. Shortly after purchasing the car, I loaded up my wife, two kids, a cocker spaniel, a llasa apso and a rabbit and set off on a 750 mile trip for Christmas at Grandma's. The RAV4 handled the roof top carrier much better than the Olds Bravada I had had before. I never felt as though the RAV4 was unstable. Even loaded down I managed 27 mpg.
Toyota Rav4
nice small suv much better than the new crv and all the other small sized suv's
Niosey Rav4 ...
The SUV has been a good vehicle up to this point( I only have 12,000 miles on it). However the NOISE factor is annoying. Specifically, the BUZZ that's somewhere in the dash that the dealer can't find. I've had it in the shop twice and they couldn't find, let alone repair the problem. Intrestingly, when they told me it was fixed and ready to go the second time the BUZZ (not a rattle) was as alive and well as before it was "repaired". At that point I knew that it would be pointless to take it in again for this problem.
I love my Rav4 not ever getting rid of i
I have 2 cars, but this is the one I use to go on long trips, out of state etc. You can't beat it for bringing kids and a dog, ice chest and suit cases, not to mention I can get from Nashville,TN. to New Orleans, LA. on 1 tank of gas!! Of course I take good care of my Rav, I get all the oil changes and 60 point inspections etc. You can not beat this car for comfort and economy.
Powerless
Inexpensive mini-SUV that feels that way. Lots on interior squeaks and rattles, underpowered. Can't
GreatMiniToyota SUV - Rava4
Just bought my new RAVA4- Sporty, good looking, comfortable, safe, cool, and all you could want in a SUV. Love the nice storage in the Cargo area.
Outstanding
I enjoy driving this car, I get in and out of traffic very well in this car.
Okay I guess
As far as exterior design, nothing beats it--it's a cute car. But the power just wasn't there. My mom drives a 4-cylinder Ford sedan that seems to have far better power. It was really sluggish up hills. And the fuel economy really wasn't there either, surprisingly. It was reliable in terms of service though. I only recently had an engine light come on, and then a report came out that said it might just be a glitch. I traded it before I found out. For me the worst feature was interior noise. It didn't seem insulated or something-- just wasn't really smooth in that respect. Overall just really a so-so experience for me. I doubt I'll even buy a Toyota again.
GOOD CAR FOR SHORT PEOPLE
IS MY WIFE'S CAR, SHE LOVES IT AND I DON'T MIND IT. ACCELERATION IS SLUGGISH UNLESS YOU FLOOR IT THEN IT TAKES OFF. WE HAVE DRIVEN IT TO FLORIDA 3 TIMES (3000MILES) AND I WAS VERY COMFORTABLE (6'3") MY ONLY COMPLAINTS ARE; PASSENGER POWER MIRROR HAS LIMITED ADJUSTABILITY CAN'T PUT IT HIGH ENOUGH TO SEE WELL. WIND NOISE FROM WINDSHIELD AT 65 MPH AND ABOVE. i PUT A K+N FILTER ON IT WHICH HELPED MILEAGE AND PERFORMANCE. WE AVERAGE 24 MPG CITY AND HIGHWAY. 28MPG IS THE BEST WE'VE SEEN (4X4 AUTO) WHEN I DRIVE I GET ABOUT 23 MPG ON THE HIGHWAY DOING WELL OVER 65. DON'T BOTHER WITH THE ANTILOCK BRAKES, YOU DON'T NEED THEM. NOTHING HAS BROKE. HAPPY WITH QUALITY
Excellent Mini SUV
At first, I was hesitant about the RAV 4 because of it's exterior looks. However, after taking a test drive and reading about it in Consumer Reports, I fell in love with it immediately.
drive on freeway before you buy
I bought the RAV4 for reliability and comfort. I am an older female with a disablity. I have had this SUV for three months and wish I would not have bought it. It does not hold the road and vibrates the steering wheel at 65 mph. I am getting no help from the dealer..I am told it is because "I don't know how SUV's drive". Well, the car drifts all over the road...I thought a new vehicle should atleast hold the road. Beware before you buy.
Best car I ever drove!
Over the years I had a Toyota Cressida 1982, then Mercury Cougar 1992, then Chevy Caprice 1994, Pontiac Grand Am 1999, then my 2002 Rav4. I never drove a car as reliable as this one! It Never failed me. It is smooth and fun to drive and when we had the 30 inch snow storm up here in Montreal. It was a pro. I dont think that I would ever buy anything but Toyota (maybe Lexus if I could afford it)... nothing less.
Best vehicle I've ever owned! BAR NONE!
Never bought anything but American before, but after owning my Rav4, I'm hooked! I've loved my Rav4 for 3.5 yrs, and I'm shopping for another one! It went thru snow, held its traction in heavy rain. It's never failed to get good gas mileage. Never failed to start. In the Toyota maintenence dept ONLY for oil changes and scheduled maint.. And talk about holding it's value... this is the 1st time I have had a vehicle that is worth MORE than what I owe on it!
I got what I paid for
I paid 19750 for my RAV 4. After spending over 27000 on a 96 Grand Caravan it felt great to spend less for greater quality. My 2WD has performed well in heavy snow. Gas mileage has been almost 30 on the highway. The car handles responsively and has enough pep to get me up hills. The AC is ice cold and for a small vehicle the front interior is spacious. I've owned eight vehicles and this is my favorite. No need to get 4WD - the 2WD will take you just abo
so far, so good
Great car. The only complaint I have is that the roof rack is making some noise as I drive. The fold down/take out seats have been great--I can fit a lot into this little car.
Great Car but horrible seats
I love my Rav4 with the exception of the seats. Toyota really skimped on the comfort factor. The seats are not supportive and feel like they are made out of foam. Other than that I have never had ANY problems with my RAV4. It is the most reliable car I have ever had. Great storage, especially with the large pack "trunk". Handles great, has a great turn radius. Easy to drive but it could definitely use more torque going on hill and passing cars on the freeway. In the next couple of months I am looking to sell my RAV4 and I am looking at Lexus and Acura. The number one feature I am looking for are ergonomic seats and dash board placement which the RAV4 certainly does not have.
The Safety Factor
I have a 2001 RAV4. Last Wednesday night, my brother had an accident on the freeway - he ran headfirst into the center divider doing 70 MPH and walked away without a scratch. If you are looking for a reliable, safe car that gets good gas mileage then the RAV4 is a great vehicle.
Watch out for minor annoyances
Problems: The 3-spoke steering wheel doesn't move down nearly enough to get a comfortable grip. If you like to drive, holding one hand or both on the bottom spokes, you will NOT like the Rav4 steering wheel. The other major flaw with the car is the pathetically weak factory stereo. My car had the 'upgraded' stereo which results in two more useless paper tweeter speakers. Unfortunately, at this time, Crutchfield doesn't support the 2002/2001 Rav4, so speaker upgrades are tough. I replaced the factory head unit with a Sony unit which resulted in more power but ZERO bass, and distortion above 30% power. If you love good music, buy a Nissan.
My Rav
This is one of the best cars that I have ever had, It is small easy to handle and roomy enough for long legs.
RAV4 L
We shopped around at several dealers. We found the best price at the larger "city" dealer. The car runs very well and is just the right size for commuting to work in all seasons. The L upgrade offers some nice extras such as moonroof and cd/tape/stereo radio. Our dealer lowered the MSR by $2,500 and provided a fair value for our 1995 Nissan Altima trade-in. The only problem we had was that the radio was defective. The dealer replaced it the next day
Impressed with little SUV
I purchased this RAV 4 used with 12000 miles on it. I was looking for something a little larger but with gas prices at $2.00 a gallon, my wallet was my guide. I have been very impressed with this vehicle. It is very responsive (5 speed manual) and has excellent handling. While it is not suited for rugged 4 wheel drive terrain like my truck, it handles rough roads well and climbs well for not having a low range transfer case. As far as the daily commute, I am averaging 26.5 mpg. Other than an occasional dash rattle, I am very happy with the RAV 4.
U got to love the RAV
The performance of the vehicle is excellent and it give a decent fuel economy in its class. Its roomy, has good looks both interior and exterior (with L Pack)and leather interiors and one can surely say that this vehicle could have easily carried a LEXUS badge. Talking about power and torque, in its class its really good. Yes, one can of course argue that the others in the segment have more HP than RAV4, but let be practical, this is a recreational vehicle and not a truck. And of course, the HP was will neve end..., I would say it you can make a deal on this buddy, PEACE OF MIND is guranteed.
*BEWARE*
Loved this car at first, started getting a lot of wind noise, and noise from rear, had it looked at, but found nothing. Now, with only 120,000 miles on it, it started slipping. Had it checked and transmission is gone, of course it's past warranty, plus the ECM (engine control module) would also need to be replaced, costing me $4,800.00.
2002 RAV4 5spd
Bought new in 2002. 5spd Stick, original clutch still going strong at 100000+... oil changed regularly, front brakes once, tires once, wiper blades, a couple of light bulbs... THAT's IT! Terrific little wagon!!! Best vehicle I've ever owned. Check Engine Light came on after about a year, reprogramming of the module was done at no cost and has never come on since! I'd definitely buy another!!!
Carlos's Toy
I have owed my 2002 Rav4 for 5 months now and driven it 9,000 miles. On back roads it does great, takes the curves like a little sports car. I get 24 miles per gallon. Good ride. Does great on the highway except when you go up prolonged uphill grades, the car wants to kick in and out of passing gear. The major complaint that I have about this vehicle is the passing gear. Do not try to pass someone on a 2 lane road except when you have a lot of time to do it. When you punch the accelerator down into passing gear, you think the car is going to take off like a rocket, but when you pull out into the passing lane the vehicle doesn't go anywhere.
First Birthday
My silver Auto 2WD 2002 RAV4 is celebrating its first birthday next week with 19K miles. About 3 weeks after I purchased this SUV, it developed the infamous rattle in the dash. I've had it to the dealer twice, but it was never fixed. I was told to turn up the radio. After about six months, the rattle had become less annoying (perhaps I'm getting used to turning up the radio) and intermittent - seems to be worse in the cooler weather, but disappears when its hot or when the heater is on in the winter. Other than this annoyance, I'm happy with the RAV4.
best dollar value in a SUV
Outstanding value.. Terrific reliablity, Gas mileage of 28+MPG. Loads of usable space.