2006 Toyota RAV4: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

RAV4 is redesigned for 2006, getting new styling, the most powerful engine in its class, and 3rd-row seating for seven-passenger capacity. The '06 RAV4 is 6.7 inches longer in wheelbase, 14.5 inches longer overall, and 3.2 inches wider than the 2001-2005 version. Base, Sport, and Limited models are offered. Each is available with front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive that does not include low-range gearing but has a locking center differential. Two engines are offered: a 166-hp 4-cyl and 269-hp V6--RAV4's first V6. Both engines come only with automatic transmission. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard. Front-drive RAV4s have a limited-slip differential. Hill ascent/descent control is standard on V6 models and on seven-seat 4-cyl models. Sport models have a sport suspension. RAV4s have a side-hinged cargo door. Optional are front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover the first two seating rows and include rollover deployment. The 2nd-row seat is a folding split bench that moves fore and aft and has a reclining seatback. The optional 3rd-row seat folds into a floorwell. Sport and Limited are available with a sunroof. Options exclusive to Limited include leather upholstery, heated front seats, and DVD entertainment.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester.

Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Rav4 are new or significantly redesigned.