Growing up with grace

Well, there's one girl who is sure to turn heads with a makeover that will make her popular.

Her name is RAV 4.

Finally, the powers that be at Toyota realised that the old RAV just didn't cut it when it came to space. It's always been a great car, just too small.

This girl is longer, wider and stronger, and you are not having to fork out much more in the way of dollars than the previous model for the privilege.

Of course, Toyota has a lot to answer for – why didn't it beef her up 12 months ago when I was looking for a new car?

Jumping into the beefed-up baby, it wasn't long before we made acquaintances and she became one of the family.

The new RAV is cleverly designed to adapt to its driver. For example, the boot space can be changed to suit your needs. There is a removable cargo shield and net, and an underfloor storage compartment. The little things in life also make a big difference. No longer do you have to go to the back seat to fold down the rear seat – just one flick from the boot will give you the space you need.

It's also no longer just enough to have cup holders, they've got to make a statement. These ones actually light up. What will they think of next?

You can choose from six models in the RAV family but for true luxury and style, head all the way to the top – the Cruiser L model. It's got seat warmers, which always come in handy, and leather seating and steering wheel. It's also got electric seat adjustment and, as many will attest, it's important to get the seat in the perfect position for your driving comfort.

But I've never quite understood why the front seat passenger is always the poor man's cousin. Okay, so it's not that difficult to manually adjust your seating but, hey, it can't be that hard to give the passenger the same luxuries as the driver.

Still, this girl was quite impressed with Ms RAV and we don't need to get too bitchy with her performance. She's all right.

LOVE IT LEAVE IT

RAV4 Cruiser L

Price: $43,990

LOVE IT

Bigger, bigger, bigger. What else can I say, big is beautiful.

Multi-purpose boot. There are no restrictions here, just adjust the space to your needs and away you go.

Temperature-control dials at arm's length. The angled centre console means you don't have to fiddle around to adjust the fan or temperature.

Illuminated cup holders, what a "bright" idea.

LEAVE IT

No electric adjustment on passenger seat.

Price, slightly higher than the previous model but you're getting a lot more for your dollar so you can't complain too much.