1997 Toyota RAV4 consumer reviews

I've had 2. One I bought new in 2000. Some drunk smashed into it in 2010. Totaled it. It was a completely reliable vehicle. I liked it so much I bought my 2-door '97 to replace it. It's still going strong, goes anywhere, excellent ground clearance. If a drunk totaled it today, I'd get another. Only complaint: after 16 years, some other new small suv's get better mileage...

Toyota quality nowadays cannot match the past models. This 1997 Rav4 is a good example of this. After all these years, it is still reliable and performing as it should be for the car its own age. I bought it for my college son and figured the small SUV with 4-wheel drive capability should be perfect for his first car. The only thing I did after buying this car (used) is to change oil, brake fluid, flush the coolant and check transmission/transfer case fluid. It ran fine for more than 8000 miles now. And since toyota parts are not expensive, I am not worried about future maintenance.. The performance is not great. After all, it only has 120 horse power and 4WD. Hence, not so stellar MPG either. It averages about 20-22 mpg combined. Still not bad for 14-year old 4wd suv. The most important thing, my kid won't get stuck in snow like RWD or FWD car.

Like the Toyota Celica I had long ago, and for a very long time...it just would not quit. NOTE: only bad point with RAV4 I have, the hideous dark green paint deteriorated horribly

got it for my daughter for college, great buy and just an awesome used car she loves it. I would highly reccomend this Toyota model

If something shouldhappend to this one I will have another one just like it Being from Ky. I have the blue one like the WILD CAT BLUE

First time I saw it I wanted one. My Baby car (2 doors) have been in a serious collisions(not my fault). I had it fixed, and I still have it. Its 12th year with me will be in June 2009.

I've owned my RAV4 for 6 years. It is awesome. Never had any major service problems. It is versatile, good for city driving, highways, and back roads. Toyota did a great job putting this one together. Super for a family.

What can I say, I have had my RAV for 8 years and LOVE it. It's reliable and comfortable to drive. I'm only 5'2" tall so driving comfort is an issue for me in many vehicles - not this one. I've been at home from the first time I drove it. To be honest, the only negatives are: only one cup holder and there is a good bit of road noise. For me, these have been easy to live with and the positives far outweigh the negatives. The only reason I am selling mine is to get a larger vehicle that will fit car seats a little better. When my kids are past the car seat stage, I hope they are still making the RAV-4 because I would definitely buy another one.

I have had my RAV4 for 11 years. I've taken good care of it (followed Toyota's recommended maintenance) and never had any problems. I love its size and reliability. I regularly get offers "if you ever decide to sell, let me know"! One negative, in this day and age, you need more than one cup holder, that's why it only gets 4 stars on interior design and features.

This is the secound Toyota Rav-4 I have owned. The other Toyota I owned was a 2006 and it ran forever it has 250,000 mi on it and it still is running great. The rav-4 I have now has 98,000 mi on it and it's still running great!! I have never had any problems with either ones I have owned. They will run forever!!!!!