2008 Toyota RAV4: Road Test
2008 Toyota RAV4 ▼
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- MSRP: $21,500 -$27,070
- Invoice: $19,888 -$24,632
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Our road test for the 2008 Toyota RAV4 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Toyota RAV4 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Toyota RAV4, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Toyota RAV4 help you decide if a 2008 Toyota RAV4 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.6 |
With the 4-cylinder, RAV4 feels sluggish from stop, just adequate around town, and taxed in hilly terrain. We recommend the V6, which is impressively strong in any situation. An AWD Limited V6 did 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds in our test. One test V6 RAV4 suffered touchy throttle action and jerky low-speed shifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 2WD Limited V6 averaged 25.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. Other AWD V6s averaged 18.9-22.8 mpg. No opportunity to measure a 4-cylinder model. RAV4 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Good for a compact SUV, thanks in part to one of the longest wheelbases in the class. Test models with 17-inch tires showed little impact harshness on sharp bumps and ridges with only mild jitter on washboard surfaces. Sport version with 18-inch tires are not noticeably harsher.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
RAV4s have responsive steering and fine straight-line stability but display some noseplow and body lean in fast, sharp turns. Sport models' sport suspension is more adept at handling twisty roads. The brakes provide good stopping control and pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Wind and road noise are well controlled around town. At highway speeds, there is noticeable road noise, and RAV4s we've tested suffered from wind rush from the base of the windshield. Sport's 18-inch tires are somewhat noisy on coarse pavement but are never annoying. Both engines are smooth, but the 4-cylinder is noticeably louder than V6 in rapid acceleration and highway-speed cruising.
CONTROLS
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
The gauges have large, legible markings. The controls are easy to locate and simple to use.
DETAILS
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Cabin materials are generally solid. The decor is let down by a too-flimsy glovebox lid and low-grade headliner material. One test RAV4 suffered from a loose driver sun visor, flickering traction control light, and a key that sometimes refused to release from the ignition. Others exhibited assorted squeaks and rattles from the dashboard and rear-seat area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Ample headroom and legroom. Long-legged drivers may want more rearward seat travel. Testers are divided on RAV4's seat comfort and driving position. Some say the seat needs more lumbar support, others say it's over-bolstered. A low, close steering wheel and the dashboard position are lauded by some testers for creating a commanding driving position with fine visibility. It was panned by others for creating a "big-rig" style driving position. Visibility is compromised by wide rear roof pillars. Entry and exit is easy.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.9 |
Ample headroom and legroom for 2nd-row occupants on a comfortable bench. Entry to the 3rd row requires a high step-in, and only the passenger-side 2nd-row seat folds forward to provide access. The 3rd-row is a convenience in a pinch, but it fits only small children.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
Impressive cargo room in five-seat versions, which have two convenient storage wells in the rear floor area for added utility. Lightweight split 2nd-row-seat sections are easy to fold. Seven-seaters have better than expected space behind the 3rd row, which folds fully to create a flat load floor. The cargo door is hinged on the passenger side, which hurts curbside loading. Ample cabin storage includes a bi-level glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
Available with the most powerful engine in the compact-SUV class, seating for seven, and impressive cargo room, refinement, and road manners, RAV4 is worth a look. Toyota's reputation for resale value is another asset. Base prices are reasonable, but stickers skyrocket with options. Recent test models also have disappointed with uncharacteristic quality gaffes. Shop around, but don't leave the RAV4 off your list. It's a Recommended pick.
Total Score
| 2WD Limited 4-cylinder | AWD Sport V6 | 2WD Limited V6 | AWD Limited V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | 70 | 69 | 68 | 59.7 |
Total Score: 68
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
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