Toyota - RAV 4

1994-00  2000-06 

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Second generation RAV-4 drives well, looks good, comes with generous equipment and combines excellent reliability plus sensible running costs. Five-door cars are very family-friendly; the three-door models look and feel sportier.

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	Fashionable, fun and family-friendly
	Livelier and more car-like to drive than most rivals
	Competitive running costs
	Not a true off-roader despite its chunky looks
	High used prices at Toyota dealers
	Not much rear space in the three-door

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RAV-4 comes close to dominating the middle ground of the family 4x4 market. It combines a pleasing dollop of style with credible off-road ability (provided it's not pushed too far) and good refinement.
It's nice to drive, too, with precise steering and fairly firm suspension - characteristics preserved from the first generation RAV-4, which almost behaved like a 4x4 GTi hatchback. The petrol 2.0 cars use a smooth 147bhp engine, which gives enjoyably crisp performance. The modern 114bhp 2.0 turbodiesel is no slouch, either, though it is noticeably noisier. It achieves 0-60mph in about 12 seconds, giving nearly 40mpg.
Refinement and ride quality on-road are far better than most cars in this class. The suspension is taut enough to prevent heavy body roll, yet compliant enough to iron out most bumps.
The well trimmed five-door cabin seats five comfortably; there seems to be less rear legroom in the three-door despite sliding rear seats.