RAV 4 - Recreational Activity Vehicle 4 WD - a four-wheel drive, but not one intended as an off-road vehicle. When it was introduced, it was intended as a fashionable fun car aimed at the young market. Today, the car is aimed at a wider market and to prove it, it is far more refined. Quality is excellent, with good quality materials used internally and the external panels are tight.
Controls are light, but firm in use and the steering provides a tight turning circle for this type of car. Around town, the steering is light and responsive. The driving position is a little high, but the ride is good. Off road, the car has active torque control 4 WD, which can control the distribution of power between front and back wheels.
Power is supplied by three engines: one 2.0ltr VVT-i petrol producing 150bhp and two 2.2ltr D-4D diesels producing 134 or 175bhp. Unfortunately, the weight of the vehicle can strain these engines to the limit and occasionally, they struggle on a motorway incline.
The RAV 4 has managed a four-star rating in the collision tests, even reaching three-stars for pedestrian protection, which is unusual for these types of vehicle.
Economy figures aren't too bad with the petrol engine managing around 30 plus mpg and the diesels around 40mpg. Insurance costs are for around group 9 to 13.
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Toyota RAV-4.