2008 Toyota RAV4 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.45/5 Average
133 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Toyota RAV4 carries over unchanged for 2008.

Pros:
  • Superb power and fuel economy for optional V6, balanced ride and handling, roomy second row, low cargo floor, solid construction.
Cons:
  • Interior has a budget feel, side-hinged rear gate impedes curbside loading, driver seat a tight fit for tall drivers.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 133.00
  • At first impressed and then not so much - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I am a 7 year Toyota owner and didnt think twice when it was time to buy a another car. My 2003 Corolla took me to 150,000 miles with no problems (besides standard maintenance). I bought my CERTIFIED 2008 RAV4 in November of 2009 and have had to replace the breaks, tires, and battery since then. At first, I loved the snappiness (torque) of my V6 Rav4. After replacing the breaks and the tires (after 6 months of ownership) I was a little discouraged. Then, my battery went out and what I didnt know is that the power steering is powered by the battery. I lost complete power steering in the middle of a major intersection and am thankful to be alive.

  • Malfunction at 90 miles - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I am disappointed with the 2008 Rav4. I turned a corner last night, pressed on the gas and the car jerked and three major malfunction indicator lights came on (4WD, VSC and a lamp). Toyota does not know what the codes are and needs to contact Toyota engineering. 3-weeks old and malfunctions. Should have stuck with the Camry

  • Excellent vehicle. Good job Toyota Japan - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I got my Rav4 v6 4wd sport last week and I love it. It is built very well, and performs great at acceleration and handling. It gets very good mileage for 269hp v6 w/4wd. Stable at high speeds, comfortable, looks good, fits perfect in my garage, what else is there to say. Test drive one and youll be hooked like I was.

  • Love my new 2008 RAV4 - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    After lots of research, I traded in my Camry SE for the 2008 Limited, 4wd,4 cyl RAV I drove a V6 to compare, and it was fast, a quieter engine, but they didnt have the V6 available in the Limited. However, the 4cyl is peppy enough for me. From a dead stop it takes off with plenty of speed and for my commuting needs the 4cyl is fine. The overall feel of the car is super and spacious. Im up much higher than in my Camry and I like that. I love the interior, the safety features and its a smooth drive. Wind noise is nil. I am very happy I bought this vehicle.

  • Love what it does for me - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I just bought my RAV4 yesterday. I was reluctant to buy it as a RAV4 had been labeled a girls car but the style and look have changed my mind. My gas mileage is actully better than my 2000 Civic right now. I plan on filling up at a quarter of a tank instead at the true empty. I am quite happy with it. Love the storage bins under the floor. I will propbly drive this car into the ground like my CIvic and Camry. I would definitely recommend it. I got tinted windows and the luggage rack.

  • One year old - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I purchased an 07 RAV4, February, 2008, used, from a Toyota dealer, replacing a 01 Ford Taurus. Bought a 4 cyl, fwd. Use for daily commuter and weekend chores. Occasional trips. Just recently, averaged 27.5 mph at a steady 75 mph on a 500 mile round-trip. Around town, am getting 22 to 24 mph. As a daily driver, the car is excellent. Perfect for weekend chores. The swing rear door does cause some problems while carrying lumber, however, I knew that when I purchased the vehicle. Otherwise, car is perfect for intended use. Am very pleased with performance, handling, and overall build.

  • Engine replaced at 56K. No more Toyota for me. - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Sadly, though not my first Toyota, this will be my last. I had to replace my engine due to a hose failure. No recall on this part, but they changed the design in 2009.... wonder why...mmm. I take good care of my vehicles and got regular oil changes. This has become the most expensive car I have ever owned. And I bought it because of the Toyota reputation.

  • Got one of the last few 08 RAV4 left - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Bought one of the few 2008 V6 AWD base model left after comparing Honda CRV, Subaru Forester, and 08 Highlander. Perfect size for my family of 4 with 2 teenagers. Like the efficiency of the electric-on-demand AWD with reasonably good mpg and absolutely fun to drive. However, dont expect the quietness/refinement of a Camry. Road vibration/noise sometimes noticeable at any speed. If you want to take advantage of the last few 08 RAV4 left like I did, make sure you check out the 09 model before making the decision as Toyota made some good improvements which may be important to you.

  • Thoroughbred - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    We bought this car in early October and have already hit 5000 very enjoyable miles. Weve run from NYC to Boston and back twice, one of those trips in the thick of the recent snowstorm. The AWD plowed through several inches of fresh snow (the electronic AWD lock being a very useful feature when the plows havent come through yet). Having a V6 gives added confidence, and I wouldnt hesitate to recommend this car. Im 62" and quite comfortable up front. I have 4 kids under age 7, so the optional third row gets used at weekends. Its a little tight back there - cargo space pretty much disappears with the third row up & in use. When the kids are older well go for a Sienna.

  • Possibly Perfect - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    After testing other brands as well as the base and Sport model RAV4s, decided on the Limited. Much quieter, more comfortable ride (its based on a car platform, not truck) and better interior materials than the base. The two extra hidden storage behind the rear seats are awesome as well as the three 12v outlets and iPod jack. Seats are super comfortable. The 4WD handles off-road duties superbly. Everything on this vehicle is laid out well with emphasis on order and functionality. Purchased rain guards, mud flaps, bug deflector, and better crossbars for my kayaks to make it perfect. I purchased this car used and it now has 48,000 miles. Every tank has been 24-26mpg with mixed driving.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area