All information courtesy of consumerguideauto.com & edmunds.com.The current Toyota RAV4 represents the third generation, which debuted for 2006. Compared to earlier models, this RAV4 is the largest, and the only one with an available V6 engine and a third-row seat. Changes since the debut have been minimal. In its second year, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags became standard (they were optional in '06). The RAV4 had a slightly different appearance prior to 2009, including no spare-tire delete option for the swing-out tailgate. Also, the standard four-cylinder engine found in 2006-'08 RAV4s was less powerful -- it displaced 2.4 liters and produced 166 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque.
The second-generation Toyota RAV4 (2001-'05) was larger, with more expressive styling and innovative removable second-row seats that gave it truly impressive cargo-carrying capabilities. Early models had a 148-hp, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that came up short versus the larger four- and six-cylinder engines offered by competitors. Toyota addressed this to some extent in 2004 by replacing the 2.0-liter with a larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 160 hp. Acceleration was markedly improved, and buyers could still choose a manual or automatic transmission. Overall, we found this RAV4 to be a fun-to-drive urban runabout thanks to its precise suspension tuning and high fuel economy ratings.
The first-generation Toyota RAV4 (1996-2000) was offered in two-door and four-door body styles, with a convertible version for a brief period. The first-gen RAV4 was appealing to young singles, but due to its narrow width and tight rear legroom, this cute ute was ultimately no substitute for a traditional family vehicle. Advantages included carlike handling, a low cargo floor and a large rear door that made loading cargo a breeze.
The 2008 model vehicle that pioneered the cute-ute segment is all grown up. Ever since its last total overhaul (for the 2006 model year), the Toyota RAV4 has offered seating for seven, cargo capacity comparable to some mid-size SUVs, and V6 performance near the top of its class. The RAV4 can tow 3500 pounds when properly equipped, and buyers have the choice of front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. True to its family-friendly role, the RAV4 comes standard with a long list of safety equipment.
So what was once the cute baby of the family is now the family car.
The available 269-horsepower V6 tops most of the RAV4's competitors. It's more than the RAV4 needs, really; but it allows the RAV4 to really scoot while carrying as many as seven people and all their associated stuff. Yet the RAV4's fuel efficiency remains comparable with some less powerful four- and six-cylinder SUVs. The base RAV4 seats five and offers a more frugal four-cylinder power.
Check out Byers Toyota for a used Toyota RAV4 served to Columbus, OH. We serve Columbus, Marion, Delaware, and Dublin with a great used Toyota RAV4 inventory.
.
