2001 Toyota RAV4: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Toyota's smallest SUV was redesigned for 2001 with slightly larger dimensions, a roomier interior, and huskier styling. A 4-cyl engine remains, but horsepower increases by 21. This 4-dr wagon offers manual or optional automatic transmission and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Side airbags aren't available, but ABS is, as are leather upholstery, in-dash CD changer, alloy wheels, power sunroof, and an "L" package that includes a hard cover for the outside spare tire and color-keyed body trim.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.