2004 Toyota RAV4 Review
Pros & Cons
- Steers and handles like a car, thoughtful cabin design, exemplary build and materials quality, refined engine.
- Somewhat cramped interior, high repair costs in low-speed rear collisions.
Other years
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Edmunds' Expert Review
With ample power under the hood and a generous standard features list, the RAV4 is now a worthy adversary for mini-utes like the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.
2004 Highlights
Toyota has given the RAV4 a midcycle freshening for 2004. Notable improvements include a larger 161-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine, a mild restyling that gives it a more aggressive appearance, and inside, a new steering wheel and instrument panel. Standard equipment has increased significantly, with stability and traction control, antilock brakes, air conditioning and a six-speaker stereo heading up the list. Multistage front airbags are also new this year, and side airbags for front occupants and full-length head curtain airbags are now optional.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2004 Toyota RAV4.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Kate,09/25/2009
In the last ten years I've owned a Subaru Outback, a Volvo wagon, a Honda Element, and now this little Rav, and it is by FAR my favorite car ever. I love the lumbar support in the seats, the Euro-style look of the dash and the way the dash lights dim automatically when I turn the headlamps on, the way my body is situated in the seat in relation to the windscreen and moonroof, the fantastic visibility, the way it maneuvers on the road, and that it can fit my whole family and I can still park in compact spaces in the city. Mine is the automatic L series with leather interior, sea foam green and tan leather, prettier than it sounds. I would buy it again in a second.
Runner,03/03/2009
Fun little SUV. Handles well in all weather conditions. Perfect size car for kid to learn to drive and be safe. Small but roomy. I get 32 MPG around town.
Happyowner,07/01/2008
Best and smartest vehicle I have ever owned. Very reliable, economic to drive. The size is perfect fit to park in garage and parking spaces. Has great pickup when needed on the highway.Plan on driving this vehicle for long time. Would highly recommend this to any individual or small family.
Mark R,04/11/2018
AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
I have had this car for 1 year and 2 months. It has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned in my life. I got the car at 80 k miles and now it has 91 k miles. I have to replace the suspension for $1,000 but I will happily do so. I know this vehicle will last me a long time. I did get the pioneer touch screen, but I recommend the car play one- wish I had that one. I have a backup camera that syncs with my touch screen radio. I recently used a headlight kit to freshen the look. I recommend getting quality snow tires if you live in a snowy area. The only thing I don't like is the gas mileage which is around 20-24mpg. I am just so happy that for once in my life I have a reliable vehicle. My mechanic says my car is in great shape. I am very happy with this purchase and it's very easy to park!
I have seen a lot of reviews about this car and I expect to get a lot of miles out of this. I take my car in for the recommend maintenance as said in the manual.
update : 06/02/2020
the car has been very reliable, bought at 80k miles and now at 108k miles with 2.5 years of ownership. Only thing I don't like is the seat doesn't have enough lumbar support. Went to test drive a Lexus but got back in my car and I just can't part with a car this reliable. My friends have newer cars and they have more problems than I do. I love this car and am thankful for its reliability.
Features & Specs
MPG
21 city / 27 hwy
Seats 5
4-speed automatic
Gas
161 hp @ 5700 rpm
MPG
20 city / 24 hwy
Seats 5
4-speed automatic
Gas
161 hp @ 5700 rpm
MPG
21 city / 27 hwy
Seats 5
5-speed manual
Gas
161 hp @ 5700 rpm
MPG
19 city / 25 hwy
Seats 5
5-speed manual
Gas
161 hp @ 5700 rpm
