2001-2005 Toyota RAV4: Road Test

Acceleration with the 2.0-liter four is adequate unless this compact SUV is carrying a heavy load or needs to pass. Highway, passing power is modest, so you can expect laborious highway passing. The new-for-'04 2.4-liter four feels much more lively--especially with manual shift. With all-wheel drive and a manual gearbox, a 2.0 RAV4 averaged 21.7 mpg; a automatic model did better averaging 23 mpg. The 2.4-liter engine proved to be even more efficient, a manual-transmission model averaging over 25 mpg over one two-week test. Although the RAV4 never rides uncomfortably, it does bound a bit over big bumps and feels unsettled on washboard surfaces. Honda's CR-V rides better overall. Quick steering is accompanied by good feedback, but the RAV4 can be buffered by gusty crosswinds. Low-speed handling is competent. Hard cornering induces a fair amount of body lean and tire scrub, but not the tipsy sensation that plagues many SUVs. Simulated emergency stops are marked by nosedive and mild wander. Wind and road noise intrude, but they're no louder than in most subcompact cars. The engine suffers from high-rpm boominess, though it's relaxed enough in top-gear cruising. Again, CR-V is quieter overall. Instruments and controls are simple and convenient, including the old-fashioned radio tuning knob and dial-type climate controls. More than most Toyotas, the cabin exhibits some design flair, with a pleasing mix of textures and shades, classy low-grain molded plastic, legible semiretro gauges, and a sporty, thick-rimmed steering wheel. Entry/exit into the front is easy, with good room for adults. Seats are very firm but comfortable enough, though taller drivers may wish for more rearward travel and a greater range for the tilt steering wheel. Visibility is fine, partly because the external spare tire mounts low enough to avoid interference. Rear head room is good but leg, toe, and shoulder space are limited. The rear bench seat reclines but isn't all that comfortable. Narrow rear-door passages impede entry/exit, too. The back seat folds or removes easily, leaving enough room behind it for at least a dozen plastic grocery bags. The swing-out tail door can be clumsy, however, and unlike some competitors, the RAV4 has no separate-opening window.

Value for the Money
On the whole, a RAV4 is more suited to suburban errand-running than to long-distance people-hauling or even moderate off-roading. Still, it's an attractive compact SUV. Many rivals offer more space and stronger performance, but only Honda matches Toyota's reputation for quality and durability. High resale value, on the other hand, means used-RAV4 prices will be high. Don't buy without also giving the CR-V a trial run.