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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  Good & bad - 2004 Toyota RAV4
  By paperpushette - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy driving my RAV for the most part. However, I cant rely on the gas gauge, it goes up and down. I have to use the trip meter. Also, it doesnt get the gas milage we were told to look for, which was one of the main reasons we purchased it over other small SUVs. Also, it sometimes revs up to 4 rpms g when going uphill (not a big hill). Ive never had a car that did that. If I had it to do over, I would probably not buy this car.

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  Very Impressed - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By Camille - November 8 - 8:33 am

  This is my first Rav 4. After a brutal northeast winter I had to get a reliable, sturdy car and fell in love with the Rav 4 on first site. Its a lot of fun to drive and with all the bells and whistles, I cant wait for winter. Even without the V-6 component, the 2.4 liter engine still moves like a rocket. Loving the Ipod Jack and the bluetooth features from the steering wheel- awesome!

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  Love it but improve all fabric & carpet - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By nanat94 - November 6 - 5:26 am

  Please note that the interior is black... not first, but only choice in the metroplex. I love driving the car and the design is great. Importantly, the one-inch difference between this updated model and the Highlander (previously owned the 2002) means a $10,000 savings. I can live easier with the lesser standard interior fabrics!).

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  LOVIN THE RAV 4 - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Jim - November 6 - 4:43 am

  I bought the 2006 Toyota Rav 4 Sport and I love it. This is my first SUV. The Rav is spacious and very agile. It has a BMW X3 look to it and I get alot of compliments on it. The ride is smooth and off road it handles like a charm. The 2.4 liter is pretty good on gas on my stop and go commute to work.

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  RAVing? - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By TxRavDriver - November 6 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd toyota so far. These cars never disappoint me. Even my 95 corolla still runs well. I love my metallic blue 2003Rav4. It handles nicely, it has a fun-to-drive look to it. With gas prices getting higher, this car doesnt take much to fill and yet it gives you all the goodies of an SUV (without the guilt and expense). If you are looking for a fun car, this is it.

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  RAV4 S - 2005 Toyota RAV4
  By arthur cameron - November 2 - 11:13 am

  so far with 10k miles no problems to report typical toyota build , got the s model in blue which looks great, the driver seat and the insert on the drivers door is showing some wear already ? not the typical toyota. and since we live in the southeast had to watch out for options that wasnt from toyota which is basically aftermarket.*read your window stickers carefully* if your buying one, other than that a great vehicle very flexible and durable.

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  I love my 2009 Rav4 with V6 - 2009 Toyota RAV4
  By Nelson Conroy - November 1 - 3:46 pm

  I leased a red Canadian built RAV 4 with the V6. This vehicle provides phenomenal power, styling, comfort and economy. On the highway the RAV is ultra smooth, especially between 65 and 70mph (110 to120k/hr). The interior is extremely spacious with plenty of headroom and lots of storage. I recommend the 270 horsepower V6. Amazing acceleration, however great fuel economy. I chose the flashy red exterior for a sporty look. This is the best crossover SUV in its class. I highly recommend this vehicle. Thank you.

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  My 1st Toyota - 2002 Toyota RAV4
  By walt - November 1 - 3:03 pm

  Typical Toyota quality. Great engine, looks, handling. The mechanical AWD system is amazing for Canadian winters (esp. with M/S tires). Had it for 5 years & expect to keep it for another 10 or more.

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  Better than before - 2006 Toyota RAV4
  By Todd1 - November 1 - 2:20 pm

  I upgraded from a 2002 RAV4 that was totaled in an accident, and the 2006 model is an improvement in nearly every area. I was impressed with how the 02 RAV held up in the accident, so there was no hesitation to get another RAV to replace it. The 06 model has plenty of cargo room. I love that the seats dont have to come out to make room for large items. The 4 cylinder 4WD model has plenty of power, whereas I thought the 02 model felt underpowered. I am very happy with the safety additions of anti-lock brakes and side curtain airbags. This car is great, and you cant go wrong with Toyota quality.

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  Almost the perfect vehicle - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By Jeff - October 31 - 12:50 pm

  Cant argue with gobs of V6 power and 27 mpg. Ive driven from FL to CO and back 2 times - no problems pulling 16-20 hours at a time in the saddle. JBL sound w/ subwoofer is awesome. Back seat is cavernous and comfortable. Love the reclining seats. The full size spare allowed me to get off a mountain pass after ruining a tire on a rock hidden in the snow. Try doing that with a donut spare. Downhill assist is a lifesaver on snowy, steep grades. I dont like the lousy 4WD system. Above 25 mph you have 2WD. If you lose traction you are on your own, even though there is a 4WD system that could help you out. I also hate the Sports ridiculous harsh ride. Get the Limited for the softer suspension