Used 2006 Toyota RAV4 Consumer Reviews
Great vehicle!!
Picked up a 3.5l Sport AWD Rav4 recently and couldn't be more impressed. This thing is an absolute missile in a straight line and handles very very well with minimal body roll. It's quiet inside and out (let's not forget this is the 3.5l drive train from the Lexus RX 350 so it's no surprise really). It's roomy comfortable and I have really no complaints about this vehicle to speak of. Very solid high quality Not-so-little-anymore SUV. I love it.
2006 RAV4 Limited V6
This car is very fun to drive. I love the pick-up/speed it has. I love its small size (easy to park/maneuver in traffic, etc), but it also offer a lot of power. I love the 3rd row seat/fold flat capability.
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,95085 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,88886 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,99590 mi away
Nice little SUV, but...
I've had my RAV4 for about a month and really enjoy it. Its fun to drive and the 269hp V6 is really peppy with great acceleration when necessary, like when entering the turnpike. I chose this car because I think Toyota makes a great product (this is my 5th Toyota in 19 years), and reliability is always at the top of my list when choosing a car, as I drive a lot. The engine is louder that in my Camry, although not to the point that it's really annoying. I love the dual glove boxes and the below floor storage area. Steering is tight, as I prefer it, and the JBL audio system is great. The brakes are very responsive but need more foot pressure than I had expected. Overall, it's a nice, small SUV.
LOVIN' THE RAV 4
I bought the 2006 Toyota Rav 4 Sport and I love it. This is my first SUV. The Rav is spacious and very agile. It has a BMW X3 look to it and I get alot of compliments on it. The ride is smooth and off road it handles like a charm. The 2.4 liter is pretty good on gas on my stop and go commute to work.
High end SUV at mid range price
Vehicle handles well and feels solid. Cabin is well designed (other than cup holders and LED clock). Plenty of storage space and room for rear seat passengers. Fuel consumption beats all competition and with the V6, this vehicle has more power and better acceleration than many other vehicles on the road.
Poor design
I've now owned three Rav's and every one has developed a creeky noise in the windshield and this one has a leak at the top of the windshield. The rear compartment has a light in the door which points away from the interior when it is opened. The compartment is dark. The rear door opens sideways which offers no cover from the elements and rear visibility is poor. The ABS works poorly on ice and snow. It pumped my foot off the brake pedal. The all wheel drive doesn't work well to get me out of my driveway. No way would I buy another. The dealer has been very helpful and pleasant to work with. But they haven't been able to fix the windshield problems. Think I may switch to Subaru.
Barcelona Red Toyota Rav-4 sport v6
What can I say besides I absolutely love this suv. Previously I owned a honda crv (I was glad to see it go). There is so much more space in the cabin and a lot more power under the hood. I also take pride in knowing that I could race a bmw x3 and leave it in the dust (hands down). It only takes about $25-30 to fill up (for now) but I find myself stopping for gas more often than I did with my old crv. I also like the options that were included on my vehicle --- I have the side curtain airbags, uphill and downhill assist control, the in dash 6 disc player with the subwoofer,and the tourneau cover and net. I really like driving on the freeway because the passing/merging power is second to none.
Good yuppie car
Excellent car in lieu of buying a comparable 4 door sedan. Shorter but roomier than Camry (thus easier to park). More utility (available 4 wheel drive) and younger persona than a Camry but close in price. Fills niche for people who want a reliable 5 passenger, fun to drive car with extra cargo room. No reason to get a 4 door sedan when a RAV4 is an option.
Great compact SUV for the price
We basically bought the RAV4 to be able to tow a boat and haul the family on a 4 hr trip to the lake every weekend in warmer weather. It is worth it to upgrade to the limited package and the V6 which still gets pretty good gas mileage especially for having 269hp. Plenty of room for the kids in the back seat and the dog in the back. The under-floor storage area in the back is very handy too. We were very happy with this vehicle.
Wonderful SUV!
This is such a great vehicle! I was tempted to get the Limited model, but realized the Base model had everything I needed. (Everyone who has seen it can't believe it's the Base model.) It handles like a car and gets great gas mileage. Although it only has a 4- cylinder engine, it has great pick-up. I love all of the little touches, like the quick release pulls in the cargo area that allow you to lower the rear seats without going around to the back doors. This car is truly a wonderful value.
Worth the wait!
This SUV was worth the wait! We have 1000 miles on it so far and it's everything we expected and more relative to ride, comfort, build quality, cornering and performance. The roll over test which was not previously available came out very positive. Our Limited is fully loaded and the options were well worth it! It rides very smooth, has great acceleration and is noise free in the cabin. For styling, value and performance there is no competitor on the market today. You must drive this SUV!
LOVE MY RAV 4
Traded in my 2003 Highlander Limited for the New Generation. I notice very little difference in size. Has a lot more pep than the Highlander. I loved my Highlander - but this is a great RAV 4
Uglee tires
This vehicle justified our reasons for purchasing. It performs decently in off road situations, has good clearance, mileage has been 22 city, 27 highway, exceeding expectations. Did not expect the rattles from Toyota. Did not expect the tires to be bald at 30,000 miles. Discovered Yokohama tires are crap. Am surprised Toyota's famed quality experts chose this particular tire. We knew we were sacrificing a soft ride to get limited off road capabilities. We like the spare tire where it is. Like the rear side opening door. Anybody who thinks differently should buy a danged van.
AWESOME!
I test drove every small to mid sized SUV under the 50K price tag; the V6 Rav4 Sport beat anything else out there. A few came close, but they were 15 to 20K more! With 269HP under the hood, it's got a lot of pickup, it handles great, and it's a very smooth ride. I've gotten great gas mileage, better than I had expected. I'm impressed with everything about this vehicle.
New Buyer Reflection
Just purchased a Rav4 with a V6. Given the size of the vehicle I had lowered expectations on comfort/ergonomics and general features. Pros to date - * It's quick. The V6 does indeed pack a punch. * Much roomier inside that it's smallish outside might suggest. Cons to date - * Steering wheel is small and only telescopes a couple inches. When I move the seat to a comfortable position I feel like I am leaning forward to reach for the wheel. * Seats are small, compared to the larger SUVs. A sore posterior on longer trips has been the result as the body weight is less distributed.
Great 4 cylinder Horsepower
I just traded-in my 2001 Rav4 for a new 2006. After test driving it I couldn't believe that a four cylinder would have that much power and performance. I also own a Highlander V6, the performance on the Rav4 is excellent in comparison. Also the large cargo area is almost as big as the Highlander, for the price difference the Rav4 is a steal. I have owned Toyotas over the past 20 years from 4 Runners to Avalons and the Rav4 really competes.
Top Pick
This is the best compact SUV on the market; I have read a couple of reviews that complain about the ride and noise. You want a car get a car, you want a great SUV get a RAV4. Apples to apples this is the best all round SUV on the market, and YES it does ride rougher than a Camry, thats why I like it. Lots of options, great power, excellent gas mileage, wish it came in a manual transmission. Some of the plastics inside can scar a little easily. Look at the others and you come back, they may be a little cheaper however, with Toyota's resale this car will cost you much less.
Won't Look Back
After trading in My Chevy Tahoe I thought I would miss the luxury of a big car. The new RAV4 is luxury, ability, agility and so much more. The car rides smooth, steering is tight and it commands power when needed. I am blown away by its sheer acceleration power. Lots of room to make up for its smaller size.
Reliable
I have 60k miles and no problems except tires at ~ 25k. Great gas mileage and dependable. Love the v6 power with lot's of pep!
Awesome vehicle
I love this vehicle! I traded a 2001 RAV4 which I bought new when the body style changed. I really liked my 2001 but I love this vehicle. The V-6 is awesome and there is a ton of room for passengers and cargo.
Raves for the Rav4
My husband and I traded in our second mid-sized SUV for the Rav4 and are thrilled with the car. The 4 cylinder is peppy and the car looks and feels like a luxury automobile. The inside rear compartment is smartly layed out and easy to adjust with the touch of a button. The car was originally for my husband, but I like it so much that I am trading in my treasured convertible so that I can drive this gem. We tested all of the competition, but as far as value, looks and being fun to drive, none even came close. It is our first Toyota, but it won't be our last!
Haven't even driven 100 miles yet.
We haven't even driven it 100 miles yet, but so far, we love everything about it. The 6 is really hot, and a big 6 that uses regular is certainly important nowadays. We also love the contemporary styling We pretty much loaded the vehicle with options, and all of them work very well and none seem extraneous or extravagant.
RAV 4 LOVE
I love it and really enjoy the driving. Great turning radius. Toyota is meant for Quality.
Toyota Convert
After previously owning/driving American-made cars, I can say that after driving the RAV-4, I may not go back. Although I've only had the RAV for a few months, it feels like I've been driving it forever. The ride is great, the new V6 gives it tons of power, and the larger size makes it a good fit for my family. Compared to the comparable SUVs I test drove (Ford Escape, Chevy Equinox), the RAV-4 blows away those competitors in my mind. Whether on the highway or hilly 2-lane mountain roads, I've always felt in control behind the wheel. Thus far, I haven't found a driving task that the RAV-4 couldn't handle.
Researched Choice
I researched a great deal to find a decent SUV that was reliable, appealing, and attained decent gas mileage. Boy was I thrilled to find the V6 Rav 4. Not only is it a much bigger vehicle than previous models, the performance of the V6 is phenomenal! I average 27 mpg on the interstate driving to work... incredible! The ride quality is wonderful and the increased amount of interior space makes trips so comfortable. I'm so happy with my Rav4 V6 and I haven't looked back. Do the research yourself, you won't be sorry... besides... it's a Toyota.
Downsize to the RAV4
I picked it up just a week ago, and I love it. Owned a 99 RAV4, and it was a great car. We downsized from my gas-guzzling V8 Explorer, but the V6 on the RAV is much more responsive. We got the side-air bags and towing package, with the 4WD. Note: the towing package consists of a larger radiator and enhanced electrical system the trailer hitch setup is NOT included. Skip the cramped 3rd row seats (our salesman discouraged getting them) frees up storage space.
Excellent Changes
Handles and responds like a car, but has the feel of an SUV. Great to drive.
Dude, where's my gas?
We bought the 4X4, V6 in Barcelona Red. We wanted the I4 but the salesman persuaded us to go big. Can't say I'm sorry except for the fact that the gas mileage is terrible. I am impressed with the fit and finish and anticipate years of Toyota reliability. Lots of cargo room so we may be able to ditch the roof rack/box. We love the dual climate control and the CD/MP3 player.
Poor Mileage Unreadable Climate Display
This car is acceptable. I don't get anywhere near the promised mileage. The Premium Radio and Climate control display is unreadable in sunlight while wearing sunglasses. It is a clear safety hazard to try and operate them while driving. They need to be better lit as they are fine at night.
My rav 6
Traded in a 4 runner for the rav4 to increase gas mileage. I've gotten 30 mpg on the highway with the 6 cylinder, admittedly with conservative driving. The power with the v6 is outstanding! This is probably the fastest vehicle I have ever owned. I don't feel like I gave up all that much space as the rav is well packaged. Handling is very good. When winter comes I will find out about the 4wd system. The only drawback I have found is road noise. It's not bad but noticeable. More insulation would have been better.
Another Home Run
My first SUV was narrowed down to Infiniti FX35, Nissan Murano and Subaru Tribeca. Although the other 3 were out of my league pricewise was settling down to going with Pontiac Torrent, but with poor GM reliabilty on 3.4 engine and huge Red flag on it now built in China and that companies lack of customer support was simply overwhelmed when I drove the new RAV4. A very pleasant surprise and although more expensive than in 2005, well worth the extra bucks. Build quality is exceptional as well as ride and a peppy 3.5 Ltr V6 that has ooomph. I felt however that options were very limited and to get a sunroof had to go with Limited, oh well can't have everything.
GREAT car!!!
I love this car completely. I had a Toyota before and they are great. This car drives smooth and is fun to drive. Good gas mileage so far, should only get better. The stereo is great. All around great car.
Nice Little SUV
Worth the wait, which was quite long to get the combination I was looking for. It's a very practical and useful vehicle.
Love this SUV!
My first Toyota and first SUV. Wasn't sure if a 4 cyl would be enough - it is, has plenty of pep, handles like a car, gets great gas mileage, rides smoothly, corners well, easy to park & my very tall son can actually fit in the front seat. Love the new larger size and exterior look. The interior is well designed, everything in reach, gauges easy to read. Running lights a great idea. Cargo area exceptional for the size.
The Best Bang for the Buck RAV4 V6
Only had the car about 3 weeks now. The vehicle is really impressive with the fit and finish and the room inside. Love the design also. Quality all round is noted in this vehicle. Mileage is impressive for such a potent engine. This vehicle cruises at 80 mph and you feel you are going 50 mph. The upgraded radio is even worth the extra bucks.
The 2006 RAV4 won over my Outback
I was a solid believer in the Subaru Outback. My husband talked me into trading my Outback in for the new RAV4. I have to say the RAV4 won me over. The side curtain airbags are a definite bonus. Steering and turning are much better than the Outback. And I have to say it gets better gas mileage than my old car. I have the 4 cyl., in my opinion the V6 is too much power for the ride. And the gas mileage is much better with 4 cyl.
Fun to drive!
Bought this car for a teen daughter because of it's safety. She needed a car that could haul her equestrian gear (saddles etc.) which it does with ease. She loves to drive it because it is so fun plus it has great looks. Everyone wants to know what it is. There are no other cars like it in our small town. We also took it on a trip yesterday through a very curvy canyon and it handled great. Super gas mileage. To tell you the truth, I like it every bit as much as my Lexus sedan. Plus, the added side impact airbags will give me alot less to worry about when my daughter leaves for college!
RAV 4 6 cylinder
It's a pleasure to drive, non-fatiguing. It's get up and go on the highway is great and city driving is very easy. Parking is easy - both parallel and horizontal. In one month I have put on 2000 miles. The cabin is very comfortable as is the ride. I ask myself why I waited so long to buy one. The mileage is way above what it was rated to be - 35 mpg on the open road. Very pleased and would recommend it to anyone.
Simply Spectacular!
I also own a 2006 BMW 325i, and I have to say that the new RAV4 V-6 is every bit as much fun to drive! The 269 hp engine delivers phenomenal torque, extending a challenge to my 325i for a race! Thumping the gas pedal is exhilarating and I can't recommend doing so highly enough! I leased this vehicle but will likely buy it at the end of the lease and just get leather seats installed. It'll be like a new vehicle and will probably only have about 30,000 miles by that time. And since it's a Toyota, I figure I'll get another 270,000 miles out of it! If you haven't driven the V-6 yet, get out there and run one! You'll love it!
A Sweet SUV
The SUV has fantastic power and a smooth ride; nice interior and a sleek exterior. It has lots of cargo space (I hauled two big arm chairs, an ottoman, a microwave and three boxes in one trip).
2006 Rav
Absolutely love the vehicle. It is almost as big as the Highlander but with more power and better fuel economy.
Liking It
I had a 2002 Ford Explorer that I totaled in a roll over accident & I got the RAV4 to replace it, so far I think it was a great choice! I commute 50 miles to work & it was quite an improvement in fuel efficiency. I live in WI, so I needed something with 4 wheel drive to handle the poor winter driving conditions. After having driven a Ford there is a drastic difference in the design quality of the Toyota- seems to have the driver in mind with the interior layout. I miss having the smoother accelerating power of a V6, but will gladly take the better gas mileage of the RAV4.
Proud RAV4 owner
I am a mom with 3 boys that play sports so the room in the cargo space is great. The third seat is nice when thier friends come along. Gas mileage is great compared to other suv. The RAV4 is everything that there is to love about a compact suv. I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!
former Ford owner
engine is great, mpg is fantastic for an suv on the highway. Ride is better than any suv I've been in. Plenty of storage for gear. Very quiet for an suv and scoots up steep hills as well as a sedan and small sports car. Will wait till winter to see what it does in snow. Only problem is that there is no satellite connectivity - have to wait for aftermarket dash fit kit to swap out for NAV/CD/SAT radio.
OK so far
Bought rav4 for the quality and it's been great in the snow and it did have 29000 when purchased. Few minor things, air pressure warning problems, some brake issues.
great driving
I've driven about 600 miles in my V6, half freeway, half city. So far it's been great. Lots of pep, looks beautiful, feels like a substantial car while maintaining a nimble feel. I've gotten 26 on the highway and 21 in the city. Once I get my aftermarket leather it'll be perfect.
Disappointing
The climate control display and radio displays are awful. You can barely see them in regular light but in sunlight they are impossible. It would have been so simple for Toyota to use the same type of display for these items as the odometer. The rear window is fixed and the rear door is heavy and opens to the side. Mileage is terrible.
2006 RAV4
Lots of fun to drive! An SUV that drives like a sports sedan. Very comfortable, roomy, exceeds all expectations. Decent fuel economy.
Impressive Compact SUV
This is a really nice SUV. The new RAV4 is almost now as big inside as the Highlander. Rides likes a Camry, but with the functionality of a SUV. 4 cylinder had plenty of power - 166hp. Fit and finish are very nice. My only hesitation with this SUV is that the rear window does not pop open, as was with the case for previous RAV4s.
20 Year Toyota Owner - Can't Beat It!
Had it for about a month now... great to drive, very comfortable, smooth handling, roomy, great style, everything I wanted with great quality and workmanship. I would recommend this SUV or any Toyota for that matter to anyone. The 4cyl I think is fine and personally, I didn't see the need for the 6cyl. In any case, can't go wrong with a new '06 RAV4! Good luck with yours if you buy one!