Overview & Reviews

Originating in the latter half of the 1990s, the Toyota RAV4 was one of the first entries in the small crossover SUV market. Almost two decades later, today's RAV4 is considerably larger than that pint-sized original, but the core appeal of versatility, good fuel economy and favorable on-road manners are firmly intact.

The RAV4 has been very popular with consumers through the years, so there are going to be plenty to choose from if you're searching for a used model. The newest third- and fourth-generation RAV4s are the most family-friendly and come with the most features, but an older RAV4 should still appeal to young families and urban singles in search of a reliable compact crossover SUV.

Current Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is offered in LE, XLE and Limited trim levels. All have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is standard and buyers can choose either front- or all-wheel drive. With an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined driving, the RAV4 is as fuel-efficient as its competitors.

Base LE standard feature highlights include air-conditioning, reclining second-row seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a touchscreen interface and iPod/USB integration. The XLE adds alloy wheels, heated mirrors, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control and sport front seats. The Limited features bigger wheels, a power liftgate, keyless ignition/entry, a power driver seat, heated front seats and faux leather upholstery.
Major options, depending on the trim level, include automatic high beams, blind-spot/lane-departure warning, Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system, a navigation system and premium audio.

In reviews, we've found that this RAV4 gets just about everything right. Its roomy cabin boasts more cargo room than most rivals and provides ample seating space for adults both front and rear. The overall interior design is modern looking, and the Entune system provides useful smartphone app integration, although the touchscreen's virtual buttons can sometimes be finicky to use. There's no engine upgrade available, but the RAV4's 2.5-liter four is refined and adequately powerful. Handling is secure, and the all-wheel-drive system adds further athleticism on curvy and slippery road surfaces. In the interest of comfort, we recommend the smaller wheel options, as the 18-inch wheels tend to have a rougher ride quality.

Used Toyota RAV4 Models
The current, fourth-generation RAV4 debuted for 2013. It maintained the typical RAV4 strengths of carlike driving manners, versatile cargo and passenger configurations and all-around comfort. It's about the same size as the previous generation, but has bolder styling, a more modern interior and some new features. It also has an easier-to-use, top-hinged liftgate instead of the previous swing-out gate, though the previously available third-row seat was discontinued. There have been no notable changes since its debut.

The previous Toyota RAV4 represented the third generation, which Toyota produced from 2006-'12. Compared to earlier models, these RAV4s were bigger and offered an available V6 engine and third-row seat.

In its inaugural third-generation year, two engine choices were offered. A 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine delivered 166 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque, while a 3.5-liter V6 produced 269 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. Automatic transmissions were standard, with the four-cylinder paired with a four-speed, while the V6 received a five-speed unit.

Three trim levels were also offered: base, Sport and Limited. Base feature highlights included air-conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat and full power accessories. The Sport added 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and a roof rack, while the Limited topped it off with 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat and an upgraded audio system. A third-row seat, a moonroof, leather upholstery and a DVD-based rear entertainment system were options on upper level trims.

We praised these models for their pleasant driving manners and convenient cargo space, but deducted points for the side-hinged rear gate and noticeable road noise. We also preferred the powerful V6 over the base four-cylinder engine that suffered with its outdated transmission and mediocre fuel economy.

Changes since its debut were minimal but included additional standard airbags in 2007, a slight styling update in 2009 (with an external spare-tire delete option) and a power increase for the four-cylinder engine (from 166 hp to 179 hp). A newly available touchscreen audio interface and Toyota's Entune smartphone apps were introduced for 2012.

The second-generation Toyota RAV4 (2001-'05) was larger than the original RAV4, with more expressive styling and innovative removable second-row seats that gave it truly impressive cargo-carrying capabilities. Early models had a 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that came up short versus the larger four- and six-cylinder engines offered by competitors. Toyota addressed this to some extent in 2004 by replacing the 2.0-liter with a larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 160 hp. Acceleration was markedly improved, and buyers could still choose a manual or automatic transmission. Overall, we found this RAV4 to be a fun-to-drive urban runabout thanks to its precise suspension tuning and high fuel economy ratings.

The first-generation Toyota RAV4 (1996-2000) was offered in two-door and four-door body styles, with a convertible version for a brief period. The first-gen RAV4 was appealing to young singles, but due to its narrow width and tight rear legroom, this cute ute was ultimately no substitute for a traditional family vehicle. Advantages included carlike handling, a low cargo floor and a large rear door that made loading cargo a breeze.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By ghana - August 17 - 4:03 pm

  Still breaking this car in, have only driven about 250 miles, but am totally impressed with the entire package. Fast, responsive, comfortable, quiet, good visibility, spacious, tight handling, great looking, nice riding, solid car. Cruising at 70 mph, and tach only reads about 2000 rpm. My old car, a v6 also, used to read 3000 rpm. I live in the U.K. where sometimes its better/safer to drive on the freeways fast (80mph+). I used to be a little concerned about motor wear in my old car. I dont think Ill have to be concerned about it anymore. I dont think that the 5 speed auto trans has any big issues. The V6 version is the best.

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  No longer Toyotas Cheap SUV, good car! - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Kentucky - August 15 - 7:06 pm

  Great turning radius, great gas mileage, great room - for its class and fuel ecconomy.

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  Rav4 2009 - 2009 Toyota RAV4
  By NKK - August 13 - 10:23 am

  I have had this Rav4 for almost 2 weeks. Its a Base V6 4wd. The first tank of gas gave me an avg mileage 24 mpg for a combination of Highway and City. Ride quality feels solid but engine noise is very evident for the first few gears and once we pick up speed >40 miles you can hardly hear a hum. I chose the Rav4 over CRV, just because it offers a v6 option and Honda doesnt. I am hoping 270 Hp coupled with 4wd should suffice to drive on hilly and snowy winters.

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  Disappointed - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By T. Thompson - August 12 - 1:26 am

  Couldnt wait to get a RAV4. I did get one in April 2006, trading it tomorrow. Complained to dealer on the 11 mpg around town, 17 on trips. I was told it would get better after 4-5000 miles. Now have 8400 miles - yes after 11 months and getting 17/21 and the small tank, not good. Three times I have had my ignition key not turn and keep trying, one time it took 4/5 minutes (no joke) before it turned, almost ready to call for help. I dislike the swing tailgate and find it very hard to clean. So, no more RAV4, taking a chance on another SUV that is well reviewed and hoping for better mpg.

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  Thanks for nothing Toyota!!! - 2002 Toyota RAV4
  By Toyotasux!! - August 12 - 1:10 am

  Well I bought this vehicle back when Toyota still had a good reputation but sadly I will NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER TOYOTA. The computer gave out so there was $1,300 to pay and after that the transmission went kaput so there goes another $3,000. Not to mention the horrifying experience of it stopping when turning left. Toyota does not care about its customers all they care about is your $$$$.

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  2007 Toyota RAV4 I-4 4WD - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By Felipe - August 11 - 6:26 pm

  Just bought a RAV4 for the wife. The drive is smooth and very car-like. Steering is responsive and acceleration is surprisingly quick...going 80mph felt like 60mph. Seats are comfortable for an SUV, and the suspension can actually handle rough roads. 4WD is always on, w/ 4-Lo available on demand. Safety features include 8 airbags. As a lifelong GM/Ford guy, I am impressed with the quality and fit & finish of the RAV4. All the standard features make this vehicle one to consider when looking for a small-SUV. Overall, I think Toyota did their homework and pulled out the stops with the redesigned RAV4. But dont take my word for it, take a RAV4 out for a test drive for see for yourself.

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  Bestest Little SUV Ever - 2005 Toyota RAV4
  By jerseyan - August 10 - 2:29 am

  After trading in a 2001 Rav4 we purchased a new 2005. It has been a pleasure to own, and wish Toyota still made this style. We like the size, it has plenty of zip, not bad on gas, easy to park, and great in the snow with the AWD. I do most of my own work and changed the wires and plugs at the 100,000 mile mark. The only maintenance was a new battery, front brakes, tires, new rear shocks, and runs like the day it left the dealers lot. It also helps that it is garage kept.

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  The Cats Meow - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By LTD 4dr SUV 4WD w/V6 - August 8 - 9:46 pm

  Owned for 8months now and the Rav is everything and more than we expected it to be. We have all the bells and whistles with leather seats. The V6 has such quick acceleration, I can see why they used this car in the "24" series as a getaway car. The mileage on the highway is 29, around town 24. The Key is using cruise set at 65-70 on the highway. The upgraded stereo is like being at a concert. Driving the Rav is a pleasure and the tire on the back gives it a sporty accent. Love this SUV and so does my husband when I dont hide the keys!

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  Ravinitup 4 All - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By ravinitup - August 8 - 5:53 pm

  Ive never had a new auto. I love this one. It is awesome! The V6 is very quick and the LED lights in the back are very sharp. I love the ride and the quality of the inside. I have the ash interior, silver exterior. It looks very nice with the brushed aluminum trim inside by the radio and on the door panels. I am going to be getting the bug guard, chrome exhaust tip, and running boards to complete the look. I also may order a Limited Grille to dress it up. The Limited has a different grille than the Base and Sport. Its just an awesome SUV and I love to drive it any chance that I get.

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  lovin my RAV - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By cjod92284 - August 6 - 1:33 am

  The Sirloin of SuVs...Love it....Wish I thought of buying this Rav a long time ago ....Love it....NO more mini van !! fun to drive. Turns heads...makes you want to keep on driving.....a must have..love the Sport model the best!