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 11 through 20 of 133.00
  • Excellent - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Nothing to complain.

  • Practical Car - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I was previously driving one of the very first models of the Rav4 (1997) model. That car was very reliable for 10 years of use. I decided to finally upgrade it to a new 2008 model with more power for my road trips to Tahoe and the snow. I couldnt be more pleased with the model. The v6 engine provides plenty of power and torque. Love the roomy interior design! Sound system is great. I average about 300 miles per tank. Thats a big plus for an SUV of this size.

  • Raves 4 RAV4 - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    My wife, 2 dogs (German Shepherd and Rottweiler), and I needed a car that could carry us all on trips in comfort and with good gas mileage. The RAV4 seemed to fit the bill. In actuality, it more than fits our needs. We do not need super power on the highway, but the RAV4 is quick and does not have the usual 4- cyl engine noise at highway speeds. MPG is a solid 27 average for us. Fit and finish are great. This base FWD model is perfect for our situation. We could not be happier with this car.

  • RAV4 handles well in the mountains - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I purchased the 08 RAV4 Sport V6 AWD right before the snow season. I drive on snow/ice covered roads regularly. The car handles well and rarely slips as I go up and down steep hills and around tight curves usually in 2-6 inches of snow at roughly 35 mph. I have not needed to use the lock-in feature for 4WD but its nice to know its available if snow gets too deep. On dry pavement, the RAV4 feels like a car. Its not bouncy like a truck frame 4WD and gets far better gas mileage. Plus, it really holds true speed with speed control engaged. No drift acceleration or deceleration through mountainous terrain. Fun to drive.

  • Practical SUV - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    The height and size of the doors enables easy entry and exit. Forward visibility from the drivers seat is excellent. A short turning radius is helpful when parking. The power seat and tilt & telescoping wheel help to gain a comfortable seating position. The ride is stiffer than a car’s ride. It seems like a 5-speed transmission would be helpful also for the 4-cylinder engine. The RAV4 is quick and does not have the usual 4-cyl engine noise at highway speeds. There is a transmission clunk on the first engagement of ‘Drive’ each morning.

  • Best Buy! - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    Couldnt be happier with our purchase. Third row seating available while avoiding a minivan is great! Gets along great in the winter - a real bonus when wife and two children are commuting in Omaha winters! Gas mileage is so far better than sticker estimates (25.75 highway - 24.5 city)!!!

  • Research paid off - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I put in a lot of time and researched all the available makes and models, both hybrid and gas, that would satisfy my current needs. Based on the MPG, reliability, looks and price the RAV4 edged out the Honda CR-V. Now that I have had the car for several weeks I am thrilled that I decided on the RAV4. The V6 is surprisingly powerful and quick for the MPG that you actually get. We are averaging 25.3 MPG so far. The sport model has larger rims and tires with fender well moldings that really make a difference in the overall look of the vehicle. The interior is very well thought out and convenient. As I drive around and look at the other new cars on the road Im very pleased with my purchase.

  • Amazingly Versatile - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I searched a lot of models before buying the RAV4 six months ago. The RAV4 was the only one I found that: 1) a 63" guy like me could fit into comfortably - I am long torso and headroom is always a challenge, but the height-adjustable seat and telescoping steering wheel did the trick. 2) Properly equipped can tow a modest camper or boat. 3) Would still get into the upper 20s for highway gas mileage. The V6 RAV4 has done all that and more for me. I am getting 22-24 mpg around town and 26-28 highway so far.

  • A Great Compact Utility Vehicle - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    This is a great car with the exception of the stock tires. If you get this vehicle, get new tires (I have Assurance Comfort Treads by Goodyear). We just had 16 inches of snow and not only did the Rav handle it like a champ it exceeded all expectations. The 4WD did exactly what it was supposed to do. The drive is steady and the V6 is very powerful. Just step on the gas and you will feel the 269 horses propel you out of the thick of traffic. It is a reliable car of good quality that doesnt feel heavy or cumbersome to drive.

  • Awesome SUV! - 2008 Toyota RAV4
    By -

    I purchased my new 2008 RAV4 yesterday, and what fun it is! The quality, fit and finish is excellent! I am 62, and have plenty of legroom. I find the V6 to be very smooth, and the cabin to be very quiet for an SUV. The leather seats are firm, but still comfortable. There is plenty of storage space, and easy access with the fold-down back seats. The options with the Limited are wonderful, and everything is easy to reach on the dash. The exterior is very sporty, and I love the new Savannah color. It is beautiful on this SUV. The safety features saved on my insurance. I added the exhaust tip, rear bumper applique, mudguards, and XM radio which is awesome with the premium 9 speakers!

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