TOYOTA RAV4 Review

Summary:

What we like: Styling, Interior space

What we don't like: Not as much fun as it used to be

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TOYOTA RAV4 review in detail:

The first couple of generations of the RAV4 were smaller, four-cylinder-only offerings. The larger, third-generation RAV4, offers up V-6 power like its main competitors, the Ford Escape and Hyundai Santa Fe.

It's bigger than ever before, and four adults can get comfortable inside. Five adults can be transported without being overly uncomfortable. The average family of two adults and three kids will travel in plenty of comfort. There's a decent-sized boot that's reasonably regular in its shape and easy to load.

A hidden 90-litre area under the floor of the luggage area increases space, and also provides security.

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine in the RAV4 offers an impressive 269 hp, making it the most powerful vehicles in the class. The standard engine is a more fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder rated at 166 hp. All RAV4s are automatic-only, with V-6 models getting a five-speed automatic while four-cylinder versions use a four-speed automatic.

Some of the performance has been gained by reducing the overall gearing, so the engine is running plenty of revs a lot of the time. This doesn't sound unpleasant and the new RAV4 is still more refined than previous models.

The new generation RAV4 no longer has a full-time 4WD system, but uses an electronic part-time setup instead. Toyota says this type of system has matured to the stage where it is as good as a full-time system. It works well on dirt roads and there is no sensation of wheel slippage before the rear wheels kick in.