By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National September 24, 2010Vehicle Overview
Toyota's RAV4 is a sporty compact utility vehicle that can fit up to seven people. The RAV4 comes with front- or all-wheel drive; Base, Sport and Limited trim levels are available. Competitors include the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.
The RAV4 was last redesigned for the 2006 model year, and a new design is coming for 2012.
New for 2011
A brake override system that takes precedence over the accelerator if both pedals are pressed simultaneously is a new standard feature. Also new is an Extra Value Package for the base RAV4 that includes a six-disc CD changer, steering-wheel audio controls, 17-inch alloy wheels, a power moonroof, privacy glass and other optional items.
Exterior
Toyota says the RAV4's exterior styling follows a "modern-rugged" theme. The body is free of cladding, and the spare tire is mounted to the rear door. Exterior features include:
- Available 16-, 17- or 18-inch wheels
- Standard LED taillamps
- Standard power mirrors
- Optional integrated fog lights
- Optional moonroof
Interior
The RAV4 has standard seating for five. When equipped with the 50/50-split flat-folding third-row seat, the RAV4 can seat up to seven people. The second-row split-bench seat can move forward and backward and recline.
Integrated XM Satellite Radio, a navigation system and a backseat entertainment system are available.
- Available cloth or leather seating surfaces
- Standard air conditioning
- Standard power windows and locks
- Standard remote keyless entry
- Optional dual-zone automatic climate control
- Optional heated seats
- Optional third-row seating
- Optional navigation system with XM NavTraffic
Under the Hood
The RAV4 is available with a four-cylinder or V-6 engine, both with front- or all-wheel drive. V-6 RAV4s can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Downhill Assist Control, which controls speed during off-road descents, and Hill-Start Assist Control, which holds the car in position for two or three seconds, are standard on V-6 models and four-cylinder RAV4s with a third-row seat. Mechanical features include:
- 179-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 172 pounds-feet of torque
- 269-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 with 246 pounds-feet of torque
- Four-speed automatic transmission (four-cylinder)
- Five-speed automatic (V-6)
- Standard limited-slip differential
- Towing package for V-6 models
Safety
Safety features include:
- Standard side-impact and two-row side curtain airbags
- Standard active front head restraints
- Standard antilock brakes with brake assist
- Standard stability system
- Optional daytime running lamps
- Optional backup camera
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Bill Jackson | Cars.com National | June 24, 2011 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | September 24, 2010 |
Affiliate Reviews
| Sara Lacey | Mother Proof | April 28, 2011 |
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