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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  rav 4 bursts into flames - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By lmcvey - November 24 - 11:58 pm

  I loved my 2008 rav 4....until I hit a deer going barely 25 miles an hour and the car burst into flames. Luckily, I got out of my car immediately after hitting the deer to inspect the damage. I honestly thought there may be little or no damage based on the minimal impact (airbags didnt go off and there was only a dent in the drivers side headlight area) but the car almost immediately started smoking and then promptly burst into flames. Toyota has been extremely non-responsive to my questions and I would never buy another one.

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  Perfection? - 2009 Toyota RAV4
  By Rav4 Driver - November 24 - 10:46 am

  This was probably the best car that Ive ever owned/driven. The Rav4 has everything that you would want or need in a vehicle! Excellent gas mileage at 23 mpg, the best in its class. Very peppy and a tonne of fun to drive! We had a Subaru Tribeca before this, which was OK. But this Rav4 has really shocked me. I want to drive it just for the fun of it! This car really makes the 2 hour drive into work to downtown Ottawa really worth it. Thank you Toyota for designing the perfect car for mostly everyones needs and all of their wants!

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  GREATEST CAR IVE OWNED - 2010 Toyota RAV4
  By Susan - November 22 - 2:23 pm

  This is the greatest car Ive owned. Fun to drive, responsive and the gas mileage is better than claimed. I HIGHLY recommend this vehicle. I dont really see why anyone would want the V6. 4 cylinder has plenty of get-up and go.

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  What a great decision! - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By Andy - November 21 - 3:50 am

  Toyota hit the nail directly on the head with the new RAV4 providing what American drivers need and want. In-city mileage is 20 mpg+. Had a little rattle for a few miles but service department solved it. Ive continued to "shop" after the purchase and am convinced the RAV4 is the best of the breed especially for a tall guy like myself.

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  Great Car! - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By Commuter Girl - November 19 - 9:36 pm

  Purchased Nov 2003, I commute 160 miles RT four days a week. This car jams! Does 70-80 mph in carpool lane with no shakes. Tended to be really noisy inside until I got high quality tires. Gas mileage really disappointing for such a small car but handles like a dream, has plenty of power to pass vehicles on daily mountain pass climb, even with the air on! Lots of cargo room with back seats down. VERY stable in scary conditions - quick response and recovery. Tire size is NOT standard - hard to find replacements at decent prices. Just now replacing shocks/struts/brakes at 64K miles. Fun to drive, does very well on 4WD roads, extremely reliable.

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  Fun, reliable, good fit for tall people - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By szabaka - November 17 - 12:08 pm

  I am 67" (36" inseam) and love my Rav4 Sport w/the V6. The JBL audio is excellent. I have had this car from day one, 25k miles, never a problem - other than flipping a coin for who has the car for the day. Winter (northern Vermont) with Firestone Winterforce: excellent. Ive tried getting it to skid, nearly impossible. Never stuck, stomping on the pedal and all four wheels really grab. I am 67" tall and have no issue on the driver side (passenger side is ok, I dont sit in the rear but could if the driver seat wasnt all the way back). My only beef is the small light in the rear door. Minor annoyance.

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  A Bad Boy looking to get unleashed - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By daifaylow - November 16 - 6:43 am

  I took delivery of my RAV4 Sport V6 on the first day it snowed in Vancouver, Canada (usually we dont get snow)so my new baby was parked in garage until the snow melted a week later...paranoid of lousy drivers in Vanc. First impression when I finally was able to drive it, WOW!!! This is one bad a$$ puppy that loves to go fast. I feel the V6 engine is constantly looking to go faster and unleash its potential. Flint Mica colour and black interior is HOT!! Have not accelerated hard yet so torque steer not evident. Handling in snow was accurate and precise. Visibility excellent even with wheel on rear door. Ample legroom in rear seats when reclined. Avg 15L/100km so far before break in.

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  Happy to have a Toyota - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Joanna - November 11 - 3:10 pm

  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 couldnt 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 doesnt feel too uncomfortable. The bench seat itself has a ton of room and reclines.

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  Awesome SUV - Go Toyota! - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Patricia - November 8 - 7:46 pm

  Vehicle is brand new and I absolutely am loving it. I have wanted a RAV4 for a very long time, and since the redesign for 2006 I had to test drive it and thats all it took. The "SPORT" is the way to go w/18" tires. You give up the power driver seat & 3rd row seating but its a much better driving experience. Now my 1999 Camry is very jealous!

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  Excellent Four - Anyone - 2005 Toyota RAV4
  By Haggis - November 2 - 10:30 am

  Traded an 03 Highlander for this Rav4. Con: Less room, not as soft a ride. Pros: Who needs anything larger than this fourbanger ? Peppy, responsive, highly maneuverable and keeps pace on the freeway with the best of the lot. A very fun vehicle to drive (great turning radius for an SUV). Typical Toyota, interior and exterior, fit and finish very well done.