Used 2006 Toyota RAV4 Consumer Reviews
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.
Teenage Driver
For a 19 year old I needed a smaller suv to hold both of my dogs. Compared to any other smaller suv this toyota RAV4 had the most room, great gas mileage, and was the most reliable. I got the RAV4 Sport 4x4 V6 I have only had the car for a few days and I love it. It had a lot of get up and go, I feel safe in it, the sunroof is great, and the upgraded sound system is very very nice. I would recommend this car to everyone.
- Sport 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,999102 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995102 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,600143 mi away
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.
Nice
Finally found a Limited 4WD V6. Great little SUV.
First Toyota, Great Car
We couldn't be more satisfied. After 3500 miles and three months of mixed suburban driving The RAV4 has exceeded our expectations. After a lifetime of 4 cylinder autos the V6 is awsome. And it is rated by the Feds as a "green" car, too. Mileage has averaged 25 mpg.
2006 RAV4
Lots of fun to drive! An SUV that drives like a sports sedan. Very comfortable, roomy, exceeds all expectations. Decent fuel economy.
Awesome!
Absolutely awesome little SUV - well maybe not so little anymore. V6 power is impressive,even coming from a V8 pickup. Nice size and handling. The only thing I would change is the climate control readout - very hard to see in the sunlight.
CAN'T GO WRONG
All in all, the 06 Rav4 can't be beat. When it came time to purchase a new car for the family, we actually looked at the new Camry and Highlander. In fact, we were walking in to purchase the Highlander when I saw the Rav4. I stopped our agent and said "I want that". My gas mileage is great. I'm getting EPA estimates - and I'm a teen so I drive it ruff. The quality is great and the look is awesome.
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!
Super Cool
I have had 7 toyotas in the last 25 years. Everyone was great. Last car was the 2003 Matrix, it was super. My Rav4 is the best yet. I have driven it for 3 weeks and I am at 1500 miles. Fantastic acceleration.
More of a blog
I have put 1000 miles on this RAV4 Sport 6. It goes very fast, and has many carelike qualities. A good thing. I cannot understand why Toyota puts that stupid radio antenna, waggling on the right side; especially in light of its excellent build quality. I have the JBL upgrade. So, it is incongruous to see a 1990's whip antenna! It comes with light truck tires. Mine with Yokahama Geolanders. That is nuts. One orders a sport 4 X 2. I will NEVER go off road. The logic is vacuous. Hence, I changed to the new, quiet, stickier MXV 4 S8 from Michelin. What a joy!. Now at 70, it does not sound or feel like a tundra. I have been to LA and back to LV. Excellent. The V6 for trips. The I4 for town.
The RAV 4 Limited for 2006 is great!!!
This car is wonderful. I previously have owned a 2003 RAV 4 L, and still like it very much. The 2006 model, is really very well designed and a lot of fun to drive. The improvements over the 2003 model include a nice feature of automatic fold-down seats in the passenger area, and more interior room. We will enjoy both cars very much.
Fun Drive
I've had my Limited 2WD Rav for about 8 wks. Traded in Nissan Quest & am more than thrilled w/car. Great mileage (only fill up every 12 days or so), holds a ton of stuff w/seats down. Just moved daughter into 2nd apt. It holds a boatload of stuff! Discovered another site that mentioned cupholder "flaps." I also hated them because all cans, bottles flopped around in them. By pulling up on the "flap," the can or bottle becomes tight & no longer falls over when turning. Why this info wasn't in owner's manual, I don't know!
Acceleration problem
There's a problem in acceleration delay/throttle lag that Toyota should be aware of by now. Since taking delivery JAN06, we've experienced continual erratic acceleration problems. These are significant delays - from 3-6 seconds - in delivering forward speed from either rolling starts or dead stops and is most evident when turning corners or going up hills. The delay is followed by a sudden delivery of power, then the car lurches forward with no change in pressure on the accelerator. When attempting to pass at highway speeds, after the delay it goes into passing gear and immediately drops back out. All conditions when this happens can be dangerous. I have reported to NHTSA. Dealer is no help.
The Perfect Small SUV
This is truly a great small SUV. Since the 2006 RAV4 is now larger, it actually looks like a mid-sized SUV now. Gas mileage is great. It looks great. The V6 is very quick, and can easily pass by other vehicles on the road. In fact, it is faster than many vehicles out there today, including many sports sedans. It can reach 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, faster than any SUV out there. It is very roomy. Controls are nicely laid out. My RAV4 Limited came with factory installed heated leather bucket seats, which are very comfortable. If you're looking for a nice SUV, make sure you check out the RAV4!
Happy to have a Toyota
I just bought a 2006 RAV4. While I have not had it that long, I am very happy with this vehicle.I was surprised at the great deal I received. I also looked at many, many other small SUVs, but not one could beat the price and value of the RAV4, even with the the massive rebates offered by the other companies. I couldn't find any that had better gas mileage. Also, the resale/trade-in value is better than most other vehicles. If I were to say anything negative it would be that the back seat does not look like it could fit three comfortably.The middle seatback actually folds down to become an armrest and cupholder. I sat there, and it doesn't feel too uncomfortable. The bench seat itself has a ton of room and reclines.
A Wonderful Car
I have been waiting to get a 2006 RAV4. It is well worth the wait. It is much bigger than the previous design and many comfortable/convenient features in it. The one that we have is a 4-Cyl but it does have some power. I particularily like the 3-row seat. Although it is not too much leg room there, but hey, the 3rd row seat will be there when we need it. Many cup holders. Drives great in the snow. Also, it plays MP3 and WMA CD, as opposed to just regular audio CD (that means you can particularly burn a MP3 CD with over 200-300 songs in ONE CD).
REDESIGNED 2006 RAV4 ROCKS
Owned 99 4Runner which I loved - wanted something smaller that was roomy enough for surfboards that had better gas mileage. I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER WITH MY PURCHASE!!! Better mileage, smoother ride (camry chasis), more HP... quality of vehicle is top shelf! Back seats come down easily, storage and access throughout vehicle grade A. Hats off to Toyota... I get compliments on the vehicle all the time...
I love my new RAV!
I just got my new RAV4 Limited 4WD V6 after wating a long 8 weeks. I have had so much fun driving this vehicle. It accelerates so smoothly and handles like the 2003 Corolla S we just traded in for it. The V6 is perfect for the driver that likes get up and go. It corners great and the steering is tight so you feel like you have control while you drive. It has a GREAT turning radius (I am used to driving a truck that didn't). I have only driven it 219 miles so far. The first tank of gas I got 19 miles per gallon. I figured it'd be much worse on the first tank, especially because I do "jack rabbit" starts. I haven't let my husband drive it yet! :-)
Very Disappointed
The reason I've given this vehicle such a low rating is it has left me in an unsafe situation more than once. Twice when I was trying to pull into another lane of traffic the automatic transmission did not downshift, but instead stayed in a higher gear and left me in a scary position with oncoming traffic. This is why I gave it such a low rating in the perfomance, fun to drive, build quality and reliability areas. During the first couple thousand miles the brakes would fade even during the first hard braking. They are better now, but it seems the me larger/better brakes are called for on the vehicle. Gas mileage could be better, but it seems to be improving with mileage.
Zippy Rav4
The new RAV4 V-6 is awesome. Its acceleration borders on magnificent. Merging on highways is a breeze.
Never Again!
I would never buy a RAV4 again. I had problems with the steering that took 2 dealerships to repair. I also hate the cup holders which allow everything to flip out of them. The lights automatically shutoff after 30 when you are unloading it, especially annoying in the winter! The tires have not lasted 20,000 miles! There are 3 bad blindspots. The car has slid since day one in rain, snow, sleet, doesn't matter!
Best vehicle we have had.
Love the car. Gets us through the snow. Gas mileage is better than we could expect for being called a "truck". Stay with the higher rated Ethanol gas (manual states tested). We have on occasion had to fill up with the regular brands. Expensive!! Had a 1995 Altima before. It got us 100km more on ethanol. This vehicle gets us 100kms more than the Altima on a fill-up. (Both same size of tank.) Averaged 32 mpg on a trip that had freeway and city driving. Original tires were 17 inch all seasons. Very stiff ride. Felt all the bumps in the road. When needing snow tires, we called around and found out you could put on 16 inch tires. Saved us a lot of money, and, have a smoother ride.
Whole new level above
My wife has been driving an 03 Rav4 limited 4WD since getting it new and has been very happy with it. And I wanted one also. So when the 06 was announced I thought we should go check it out. Well I was blown away at the improvements Toyota made with this new RAV4. We bought it for a few % above what the 03 cost us even though both were loaded. Everything about the design is impressive. The size and MPG it gets are hard to believe. The inside styling on the L version is really nice. The general feel of the vehicle is fantastic
bye bye CRV
I was waiting for the new CRV's to come out to make my purchase. After seeing the CRV i am so glad i got the RAV4, just went on a 400 mile trip with it last weekend and love the ride, fuel was about 25mpg, not bad.Power is awesome Great SUV
Rav4 Limited
The Rav is about 4 months old now, and we're about ready to take it in for some warranty work. The low tire gage light will not go out, even though we've check them all inc. spare. The engine and interior vibrates when stopped and in gear. The car is pretty fragile, also. The rear bumper is damaged from a 2mph bump while backing the car out of the garage.
Best SUV
We had 2003 Honda Cr-V. Our new RAV-4 is far superior. Much better performance, handling and much less road noise. The 3.5L 6cyl engine is overkill but we love it! If you got the extra $$ definitely go for along with 4WD. We plan on doing a lot of traveling so extra power and handling are super important to us. Toyota really rang the bell with this model.
slightly underpowered
Bought my rav4 sports basic edition for $23,350 OTD after much hangling. I found the vehicle to be slightly underpowered (0-40 miles).But who needs a V6 with $3 a gallon prices.
RAV4 Rocket
We were looking for a new SUV that met all my wifes business needs and met our traveling needs also. This one does it all. My wife is an interior designer and is on the road a lot carrying various samples and materials. She just loves that she can lay down the rear seats from the rear with one hand. One of our other cars is a Porsche and this RAV4 handles nearly as well. I love the power and the electric steering works great too. We just took two trips across west Texas and got 28 miles per gallon with a tail wind. By the way, we were crusing at 85 mph with a full load and the A/C on.
Wow
After considering CR-V, Tucson, Sportage. I got 4 cyl, AWD, Base, a couple od days ago in Canada. It's so rock solid and precise. Nice quality. Everything is tighten. Big enough for 2 kids and 2 adults. Engine room looks well organized. I can see what quality means. I recommend to anybody who wants this size and quality SUV. If you're a Honda fan, you may wait until all new CR-V come out this summer and see. But I won't regret.
Exactly as Described!
Everything on this vehicle works, fits & functions perfectly. No rattles wind noises etc. etc. The vehicle is the perfect suv in its class IMHO. I couldn't be happier in my choice to select this vehicle!
What happen to Toyota quality
2000 miles and I have windows that rattle, pillar squeaks and now water leaks.
expensive add-ons
The more I drive this car,the more I enjoy driving it.It's fun.However,for a top of the line model,many of its functions are on the crude side.ex.the climate control system seems to go full blast to regulate the temp.Also,paying almost 500.00 dollars to install a wiring harness for a trailer hitch is outrageous.
The Grand RAV4
I purchased this vehicle in August. Already with 2200 miles on it. Love it as much as my Camry, that I retired with 268,000 miles. Currently, getting 28 mpg with Shell Gas, driving 64 miles round trip per day. Quiet, quality, great dealership....the base engine is spunky with plenty of pickup...
Surprisingly Large Compact SUV
06 RAV4 is selling really fast! five RAV4 were available when I went to the dealer. It has sufficient low end torque. Also, getting to 80mph is a breeze. The newly designed interior is beautifully modern. I never considered buying a RAV4 because of its small size. But, 06 RAV4 is definitely worth a look for its car-like handling, peppy engine, beautiful interior, larger space and gas mileage.
Very pleased
I went from a '92 Camry XLS (4-cyl) to 2006 Rav4 4x4 Base 4-cyl. Needed cargo room to haul band equipment. Rides very smooth and quiet, not quite as smooth as the Camry but still very good for a small SUV. 24 mpg city, 29.5 hiway, both with AC on max. I think Toyota makes a very good 4 cyl engine.
Great SUV
No complaints here. I purchased as my first car that I am paying for. Dealership was a pleasure to work with. Got it for 21K out the door. Love the 6disc in dash and the control that this car has. It drives like a sedan but is an SUV. Coming from a small car with power nothing, I love all the standard features on this car. Fun and easy to drive, great gas mileage for an SUV, and is big enough to fit me and my friends comfortably.
Very Nice
Got my Rav one month ago. First thing is that it's great on hills and excellent off start. Holds plenty of gear with great cargo room and system. Seats are great but had leather put in aftermarket (not an option on sport) I miss my satellite radio so awaiting for dash fit kit, but sound of jbl speakers are great. Waiting to see how it rides in snow. Fit and finish of parts are clean, tight and look great. Great on long highway trips and fuel economy has been 26 mpg. Wish it had full time 4wd ability for heavy rain and snow. Toyota needs to offer satellite as option or the connection for it. Only serious complaint is that you can't read radio and clock display in daytime or with sunglasses on.
RAV = Really Agile & Very fast
Owner for a couple months now. Handles great and the performance is amazing. High lease rate is a drawback. Performance makes up for it?
great SUV
Toyota did a great thing with the redesign, it drives like a car but preforms like an SUV, had no trouble in the snow with it
Returned in 2006
I had and still have a 1996 Rav4. My son drives it and it is still running, so when I needed a new car, I came back. The extra space is great. I would like to see more adjustments available for driver's seat and optional airbags standard equipment, but you can be sure it will still be going strong, long after it's paid for. And they do have good resale value.
The Greatest SUV
I would really recommend this car to just about anyone. It's comfortable, fuel efficient, especially for a 4 wheel drive, and it looks great. It comes with great standard features like the mp3 player plug in. If you are looking for a reliable, fun car, this is it.
I'm a Rav4 Girl
It's so much fun to drive. I have never owned a suv b4, now I will never go back to a midsize. I owned a toyota before in the 1980's went to Honda, now I'm back home. It's roomy, sleek in style, and drives like a car. Never was interested in the older models. Now I'm very impressed.
Fun Vehicle
This car is fun to drive. The front seats are larger and very comfortable. The back is very spacious and very nice. We really love this car. We had a 2002 before this Rav and this one is a complete turn around. LOVE IT
Love my Rav4!
I spent 6 months researching and looking for a 4wd, fuel efficient vehicle. I previously drove a Subaru Outback, which did well in snow, but was too small. When I finally purchased my RAV4, I loved it. As the days and weeks went by, I love it more! It's comfortable, quiet, sporty and just plain fun to drive. I love how it looks. I've stuffed it full of antiques with roon to spare. On the down side, I agree with another reviewer that the cup holders don't hold any cup I own (no room for handles). I miss my heated mirrors and seats. And I wish I had fog lights. All that being said, have I mentioned I love my Rav4?
Good little SUV but no sizzle
Nice little SUV that my wife loves to drive. Great for driving with car seat age kids due to ride height. 4wd pretty good in Canadian snow and has never been stuck even with the all seasons. Not the quietest or fastest with the 4 cyl but racing is not this SUV's forte anyways.
Love my Rav4 Sport
I own a 4x4Rav4 V4 sport Silver.I love its cool exterior styling, the side mouldings, sports tuned shocks, thicker tyres gives it an edge over the limited. I've added mud- guards,side-guard and sun-roof visor to give it a distinct look.The dark windows on a silver body of the Rav4 is worth a second look. The V4 engine is peppy,responsive. In the city i get 21mpg and close to 27mpg highways.
I'm in love
I just bought this beautiful car and I am really happy with it, it has good power, stability and the looks. The interior on the sport is pretty neat and the sunroof and 18" allow weells make a difference on it. The JBL sound system rocks, if you are looking for a RAV4 invest a little more and get the premium sound, fog lights and sunroof
So Far So Good!
Only had it for the weekend and 100 miles, but so far so good! Solidly put together with a reassuring thud when doors close. Car is definitely roomy enough in the back for babyseat and 2 kids. Interior ergonomics is perfect for a car of this price.