The Toyota RAV4 is considered a crossover SUV, which means it combines the features of a sports utility vehicle with those of a family car. The size of the crossover is much smaller than the Toyota 4Runner but slightly larger than a full-size sedan. The RAV4 is manufactured by Toyota Motor Corporation and assembled in Tahara, Aichi, Japan. The third and present generation is also assembled in Tahara and Obu, including Woodstock, Ontario, Canada.
The RAV4 has increased cargo space and is available with full-time four-wheel drive. Since it is a crossover, it also benefits from the same fuel economy of other Toyota vehicles like the Camry. RAV4 is short for Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", and it was the starting point for future popularity of crossover vehicles. From... View more 2005 onward, the Toyota RAV4 increased its engine performance, providing 148 horsepower in its 1.9 liter I4.
The first generation RAV4 began in 1994 and ended in 2000. During that time, it was marketed in three body styles: 2-door SUV, 2-door convertible and 4-door SUV. A RAV4 EV model was available in 2002 for a limited time, which was an all-electric vehicle that produced zero-emissions. On a full charge, the RAV4 EV could be driven 120 miles between charges. The second generation RAV4 was available in both 2- and 4-door SUV body styles and came equipped with three optional engines: 2.0 liter I4, 2.0 liter diesel I4 and 2.4 liter I4.
The third and current generation began in 2005, which also introduced a newly designed body style that was only available as a 4-door SUV. However, six engine options were given along with five choices of 4-, 5- and 6-speed transmissions. Inside each RAV4 is a spacious interior fully equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, CD stereo and power seats, mirrors and windows. The exterior has more aggressive curves extending along the side of the body, including additional 16-inch wheels and larger tires.
In 2008, the Toyota RAV4 won the AutoPacific Motorist Choice Award for Mainstream Mid-Size Crossover SUV. Later in 2009, the RAV4 made the Kelley Blue Book list for the Top 10 Best Resale Value Awards - among some of the other contenders were BMW, Audi and Honda. This ensured future buyers of the Toyota RAV4 that they would be receiving a vehicle that performs just as well as more expensive cars and beats out the competition because of its reliability and handling. View less
