 2011 Toyota RAV4. Click image to enlarge |
Model: 2006 to 2012 Toyota RAV4
Vehicle Type: Crossover SUV
History Description: The Toyota RAV4 is arguably the small SUV that started a now intensely competitive compact crossover scene. Introduced in 1996, it was one of North America’s first SUV models that boasted tremendous fuel efficiency, fun-to-drive dynamics and four-wheel drive.
Things have changed considerably since the RAV4 hit the market—and nowadays, most carmakers offer a machine with similar intentions. Consider this one alongside the Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and others.
Additionally, a new-for-2013 RAV4 is launching soon, which means the last-generation RAV4 has traveled even deeper into used-car territory.
Engines/Trim: RAV4 shoppers can select between four- or six-cylinder power, and a number of trim levels and options to fine-tune the model to their precise needs.
Four-cylinder power was standard, namely from a 2.4L unit with 166 horsepower early on, and a 2.5L four-cylinder, making 179 horsepower from 2009 on. The available 3.5L V6 made just shy of 270 horses, resulting in hot-rod like power output. The RAV4 with V6 power went like bananas, and was also better suited to towing and frequent travel with a full complement of passengers and cargo.
Most models got an automatic four-wheel-drive system as standard, and a push-button ‘Lock’ mode was featured for preemptive traction ahead of driving in slippery conditions, or bashing through the snow-plow hump at the end of your driveway. Otherwise, the system was fully automatic and operated with no driver involvement. Note that a fuel-saving front-drive configuration was offered for several years.
    2010 Toyota RAV4. Click image to enlarge |
Look for a sport-appearance package that added a chrome tailpipe and deleted the rear spare tire for a cleaner, leaner look. Other packages included the ‘Leather’ package, which added more upscale seats and trim, a ‘Leather and Navigation’ package, a seven-passenger seating package which added a third row of seats, and an ‘Upgrade’ package on lower-end models that included 17-inch alloy wheels, a CD changer, satellite radio and rear privacy glass.
Top-line ‘Limited’ package models added things like push-button start, unique styling accents and steering wheel–mounted audio controls.
What Owners Like: RAV4 owners taking to the internet to share their experiences typically praise a ‘comfy’ interior, car-like handling, acceleration performance with the V6, and wintertime traction and confidence on models with the 4WD system. Many owners say they feel ‘safe’ driving their RAV4 in snow. Interestingly, several owners even commented positively on the effectiveness of the climate control system and the legibility of the instrument cluster. Flexibility and cargo space are highly rated, too.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners have reported disappointment with the fuel consumption of the RAV4, in particularly with their inability to achieve the figures claimed by Toyota. Other owners wish for a ‘richer’ feel to the RAV4’s cabin, which is largely trimmed with hard, crispy plastic. Some drivers wish for more planted handling while cornering, and a few parents say the second row of seats is tight with a pair of child seats mounted. The four-cylinder model is said to be sluggish by some folks, too.
Common Issues: Start your test-drive of the RAV4 with the usual exterior checks—ensuring all lights work, that windshield wipers are present and functional, and that there’s no unexpected rust, denting, peeling of paint or other visible damage. Be sure to check for rust on the inside, lower edges of all doors, and the tailgate.
