2011 Toyota Rav4
by Jim Prueter
(Note: This review was written in January 2010 about the 2010 Rav4. Little of substance has changed and the review has been updated to include what’s new for the 2011 model year.)
It has been a while since I last tested Toyota’s popular small crossover, the RAV4. The third generation RAV4 had a complete makeover for 2006, with a modest facelift for 2009. Unfortunately, not much has changed. Thankfully, the RAV4 will receive a new design for the 2012 model year.
In most respects the RAV4 impresses, thanks to a strong emphasis on functionality and practicality. Nothing superfluous or portentous here, just a journeyman vehicle that’s hard to fault. Sensible enough.
No one will call it beautiful, and it won’t turn any heads as it passes by on the street. Oh, there’s a sport appearance package available on the four-wheel-drive models that includes rear door chrome accents and hides the protuberant spare tire, while also adding run-flat-tires, stainless steel exhaust tip, body colored rearview mirrors, and a few bits of interior trim to dress up an otherwise pallid space.
The RAV4 offers either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V-6 engine transplanted form the Camry. Both are excellent engines, but the V-6 offers a boost to 269-horsepower from 179 in the four-cylinder model.
RAV4 is offered in three trim levels, the base model, Sport, and Limited. Buyers can choose front or four-wheel drive, with prices ranging from $22,475 to $31,885.
For 2011, we tested a RAV4 Limited front-wheel drive with the V-6 and a five-speed automatic transmission. The Rav4 is one of only two small crossovers offering three-row seating, which is a definite advantage, though it costs an additional $940 and provides only a modicum of seating space. Second row seats both slide and recline.
The V-6 was noticeably quicker than the four-cylinder previously tested. But given that most people expect fuel prices to rise in the future, the latter may be the smartest choice. Competitors such as Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Subaru Forester don’t offer six-cylinder engines.
Still RAV4 is a good all-around performer with a comfortable ride, compliant handling, and good agility.
The front seats are comfortable, but this too-tall driver wished for extra thigh and lower back support. Even a telescoping steering wheel, left the wheel too far away for our liking. Cargo space is respectable unless the optional third-row seats are installed.
Our 2011 test vehicle was not equipped with the optional navigation package ($2,830) that also includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated backup camera monitor, power moonroof, leather-trimmed seating surfaces, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat and 4-way front passenger seat, and an upgraded audio system.
Standard safety gear includes both stability and traction control, antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake distribution, driver and passenger front- and seat-mounted side air bags, front and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, and child safety door locks. RAV4 has earned the highest possible five star and highest “Good” crash test safety ratings from the U.S. Government and the insurance institute for highway safety.
When it was introduced 15 years ago RAV4 was a first-of-its-kind car-based vehicle, and it remains one of the best selling small crossovers behind Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. The competition has more than caught up, with better interiors, more stylish exteriors, and the lack of a rear swing gate that’s long obsolete.
If you’re seriously considering a RAV4 we suggest you wait for the redesigned 2012 that should have far fewer shortcomings than the current product offering.
Toyota also announced that it will offer an all-electric version in 2012, which will have a driving range of approximately 100 miles from a fully charged battery. Pricing has not been announced.
