Toyota RAV4 Reviews

They've gone head to head for years on showroom floors, but does the updated Toyota RAV4 have what it takes to beat the Nissan X-Trail? Richard Berry referees.

Most SUVs are made for the suburbs, but some still cater for those looking to live the great Aussie dream.

When the Toyota RAV4 arrived in Australia 20 years ago it was a funky little two-door 4WD for the young and young at heart.

We shed a tear after returning the RAV this week. Now and again you come across a car that is a keeper and this happens to be one of them. The diesel has been a long time coming in the RAV but it has certainly been worth the wait, smooth and economical and a better looker to boot.VALUEPrices for the diesel start from $35,490, $3500 more than the equivalent petrol model -- why so much? Our test vehicle, the mid-range, all-wheel drive GXL, is priced from $38,990. The auto is a $2500 option and takes the price to $41,490 before on-road costs.Standard equipment includes Bluetooth, 6-speaker CD audio, roof rails, a rear spoiler, a cargo net and privacy screen, with a rear seat that reclines and is split 60/40. GXL adds 17-inch alloys, a reversing camera, computer screen, sporty seats, dual-zone climate air, auto wipers, power fold exterior mirrors, keyless smart entry and push-button start.TECHNOLOGYThe 2.2-litre common-rail turbo-diesel delivers 110kW of power and 340Nm of torque, the latter in a narrow band between 2000 and 2800 revs. The petrol model gets a CVT but the diesel is teamed with a traditional six-speed auto, with the facility to change gears manually if desired.There's nothing hi-tech about the setup, but the combination is smooth and powerful and doesn't suck much fuel -- that's all that is required. With a 60-litre tank, fuel consumption is rated at 6.5 litres/100km for the auto. We've clocked up about 4000km over the past few weeks, with the trip computer showing between 7.3 and 7.8 litres/100km.DESIGNBeauty is in the eye of the beholder, but we reckon it's a step forward. The look is sharper, more angular and almost predatory with a strong resemblance to Corolla. Physically, it's larger but because the spare wheel has been relocated from the back door to a position under the car it's actually 55mm shorter.SAFETYRAV scores a full five stars for crash safety. Seven airbags, stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, while automatic AWD models get downhill assist to help manage slippery descents.DRIVINGThe diesel provides plenty of get up and go, particularly in the low to mid-range where you want it. During normal driving the wagon remains predominantly front wheel drive to reduce fuel consumption. But when things get slippery the all-wheel drive system kicks in to provide sure-footed, four-paw grip.The new model also marks the introduction of Sport mode to spice things up. It adds weight to the steering, sharpens throttle response and delivers a more aggressive gear shift pattern.Rear legroom is generous. Thinner front seats create an extra 41mm of leg space for rear seat occupants but even so our passengers complained the back seat was uncomfortable. Although it looks the same as the more expensive unit the touch screen computer misses out on satnav and the small buttons can be difficult to use when driving. The initial 500kg tow capacity has been lifted to 1000kg or one tonne.VERDICTIf we had to go shopping for a car tomorrow, this would be one of the vehicles high on our shopping list. You can argue the toss about whether the extra cost of the diesel is worth it, but in the long run it delivers a better all-round driving experience and will continue to do so for years to come.Toyota RAV4 GXL diesel autoPrice: $41,490Warranty: 3 years/100,000 kmService interval: 12 months/15,000kmSafety: 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, EBA, TCCrash rating: 5 stars (forecast)Engines: 2.0-litre petrol, 107kW/187Nm; 2.5-litre petrol, 132kW/233Nm; 2.2-litre diesel, 110kW/340NmTransmissions: 6-speed manual and auto, 7-speed CVT; FWD or AWDThirst: 5.6L/100kmDimensions: 4.57m (L), 1.84m (W), 1.71m (H)Weight: 1660kgSpare: space saver (optional full-sized $300)Also: Toyota RAV4 GXL diesel review | long term 1

It's almost inevitable. Once you two are no longer DINKS, an SUV appears in your driveway. The convertible lacks boot space, the V8 ute has no rear seat and the full-on 4WD is too big.The solution seems to be a compact or medium SUV. There are worthy station wagons to consider but new car buyers want to look like explorers, not breeders. Check the shopping centre or school car parks -- easily a third of vehicles have more than 150mm of ground clearance.Today's SUV is far from the 4WDs of yore -- it's easy to drive and load, child friendly, frugal with fuel and competitively priced.  The toughest surface these machines face is a wet speed bump so four of the five we've assessed have a 2WD variant.If you want to carry seven or more, that's the terrain of people-movers and large SUVs. Stay tuned for that. Weekly running costs include purchase, finance, registration, insurance, servicing; based on 15,000km a year, private ownership; costs vary between states and variants.Toyota RAV4 The new model brings with it a diesel -- it's unsuited to towing, so the 2.5 petrol is the option for versatility. Boot space is 506L (or 577L without a full-size spare). It has only 160mm of ground clearance and a low chin, so steer clear of serious obstacles. It scores for driver's knee airbag, spacious and quiet cabin with good storage but loses for a sharpish ride.Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmRunning costs: $199-$235 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 107kW/187Nm; 2.5-litre 4-cyl, 132kW/233Nm; 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 110kW/340NmTransmission: 6-speed man, 6-speed auto, CVT; FWD/AWDThirst: 5.6L-8.6L/100km Tank 60LDimensions: 4.6m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: GXL 2.5 auto AWD $35,490Price: from $28,490Subaru ForesterOne of the newer models here, the Soob still leans to the off-road side of the equation. There are diesel and turbo petrol options but most buyers won't need that amount of urge. Boot space isn't great at 422L but the Forester gives occupants ample room and a smooth drivetrain. The CVT is much better than previous versions.Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmRunning costs: $210-$230 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl boxer, 110kW/198Nm; 2.5-litre 4-cyl boxer, 126kW/235Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cyl boxer turbo diesel, 108kW/350NmTransmission: 6-speed man, CVT; AWDThirst: 5.9L-8.1L/100kmTank: 60LDimensions: 4.6m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: 2.5i-L $35,990Price: from $30,990Mazda CX-5If evidence was needed that SUVs are moving away from their off-road origins, the Mazda provides it. An A-grade unsealed surface is about as adventurous as you'd want to get with the little Mazda but it has few peers for on-road dynamics and nothing comes close to its Skyactiv turbo diesel powerplant. The absence of rear vents can be overlooked but at least the child seat anchor points are on the seat backs. It's got the longest wheelbase of this quintet, which suggests reasonable cabin space, but boot space is below par at 403 litres and ride quality isn't as supple as the Honda.Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmRunning costs: $203-$244 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 114kW/200Nm; 2.5-litre 4cyl, 138kW/250Nm; 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 129kW/420NmTransmission: 6-speed man, 6-speed auto; FWD/AWDThirst: 5.7L-7.4L/100km Tank 58LDimensions: 4.5m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: Maxx Sport 2.2Price: from $27,880Nissan X-TrailThis version has been around for nearly a decade, hence it rates four crash safety stars from ANCAP rather than the now standard five. It tops the braked towing capacity with 2000kg, adding to its versatility despite just 410L of boot space. It has off-road prowess, diesel variant (in AWD only) and a ``lite'' option, the 2.0-litre front-driver.Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmRunning costs: $219-$243 pwSafety: 4 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 102kW/198Nm; 2.5-litre 4-cyl, 125kW/226Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 127kW/360Nm (auto 110kW/320Nm)Transmission: 6-speed man, 6-speed auto, CVT; FWD/AWDThirst: 7.1L-9.1L/100kmTank: 65LDimensions: 4.6m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: 2.5 ST $32,690Price: from $28,490Honda CR-VOnce dominant then long lost, the Honda is getting back where it belongs. Chief asset is cargo space of 556L, the best of the bunch despite a full-size spare, although marred by roof-mounted child seat anchors. Footprint is compact but Honda says there has been no change to passenger space. Compared with previous model, much quieter and easier on the backside. Pricing is canny, there are front and all-wheel drive variants and a diesel is imminent.Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmRunning costs: $189-$225 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 114kW/190Nm; 2.4-litre 4-cyl, 140kW/222NmTransmission: 6-speed man, 5-speed auto; FWD/AWDThirst: 7.7L-8.7L/100kmTank: 58LDimensions: 4.5m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: VTi-S AWDPrice: from $27,490

There was no such car as an SUV when Toyota unleashed the RAV4 on the local market in 1994. In the course of the next 19 years it has evolved from a cheeky three-door for the unattached and free-at-heart into a full-sized wagon for the family.NEWOnce alone in the market it now has to compete against a vast number of models from rival carmakers. The third generation RAV4 released in 2006 was a step along the evolutionary path. Gone was the youthful three-door that announced the new model in 1994, and the constant four-wheel drive system was replaced by an on-demand all-wheel drive system in line with most of its rivals.The four-door wagon was one of the roomiest in the class accommodating five adults, although the one forced to sit in the centre of the rear seat would have found it a little cramped. The rear seat slid back and forth, and could be split and folded for versatility in carrying passengers and loads as needed.Power buyers could choose between a smooth 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a lusty 3.5-litre V6. The four-cylinder could be coupled up to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, while those ticking the box for the V6 got a five-speed auto.One of the big changes in the third generation RAV4 was the switch to an on-demand all-wheel drive system. In effect it drove like a front-wheel drive car most of the time, only engaging the rear wheels when slip was detected at the front. Hard core four-wheel drive fans might feel cheated by the switch, but most RAV4 buyers wouldn't notice a difference.The RAV4 has a towing rating of 1500kg, but some owners find that the four-cylinder engine struggles when hauling a caravan at around that weight. If you plan to tow with your RAV4 it's perhaps best to look at the V6.NOWFor years Toyota enjoyed a reputation for building cars that gave little or no trouble, but that reputation has been tarnished somewhat in recent years when it had to recall a number of cars, including the RAV4.One recall related to the tightening of the adjustable rear suspension arm following a rear wheel alignment. If not tightened enough the threads on the arm could wear causing the arm to fail. Another concerned the possible fitment of a prototype instrument panel reinforcement, which could fail and affect the steering.A third related to the sliding electrical contact module in the driver's-side power window master switch, which could feel sticky when operated and could stop working or over-heat and melt. Other than those potential issues the RAV4 is a solid car that really does give little trouble.As it is with all cars it's important that the RAV4 is serviced according to Toyota's recommended schedule, which calls for servicing at 10,000km or six-month intervals. That's more frequently than some other carmakers recommend, but it's worthwhile sticking to the schedule to underpin the longevity of the car.Although few RAV4s hit the dirt like their bigger brothers, they are quite capable off-road and could be used in the bush. With that in mind it's worth taking a careful look over any potential purchase, checking underneath for damage to the underbody, suspension or driveline, and also take a close look at the bodywork for damage that might have been sustained off-road.SMITHY SAYSSafe, solid and reliable wagon for the family.Toyota RAV4 - 2006-2010Price new: $31,990 to $41,990Engine: 2.4-litre 4-cylinder, 125 kW/224 Nm; 3.5-litre V6, 201 kW/333 NmTransmission: 5-speed man, 4-speed auto, AWDEconomy: 9.1 L/100 km (2.4), 10.5 L/100 km (V6)Body: 4-door wagonVariants: CV, CV6, Cruiser, Cruiser LSafety: 4-star ANCAP

Surprise, surprise. Toyota has been caught out by the success of its first diesel RAV. For years we've hounded local execs to introduce a diesel version of its best-selling soft roader. Instead of listening they introduced a V6. But that's all changed with the introduction of the latest RAV4 the V6 is gone and demand of the diesel has exceeded expectations. Doh…TECHNOLOGYThe 2.2-litre common-rail turbo-diesel delivers 110kW of power and 340Nm of torque, the latter in rather narrow range between 2000 and 2800 revs. It's paired with a traditional six-speed auto but the driver can change gears manually if desired. It's not hi-tech, but it's smooth and powerful and doesn't suck much fuel and that's all that is required. With a 60-litre tank, fuel consumption is rated at 6.5 litres/100km for the auto (we've been getting a solid 7.3).VALUEIt's bigger and better looking than before and comes in two and four-wheel drive guise, with a choice of three engines, three transmissions and three trim levels: GX, GXL and top of the range Cruiser. Our test vehicle is the mid-range, all-wheel drive diesel GXL priced from $38,990 with the optional $2500 auto fitted that takes the price to $41,490 before on-roads.Standard equipment includes Bluetooth, 6-speaker CD audio, roof rails, a rear spoiler, a cargo net and privacy screen, with a rear seat that reclines and is split 60/40. GXL adds 17-inch alloys, a reversing camera, computer screen, sporty seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, power-retractable exterior mirrors, keyless smart entry and push-button ignition.DESIGNIt looks a lot like the Corolla and the look will obviously be carried over to other models too. It's a lot bigger than RAVs of old too, but because the spare wheel has been moved from the back door it's actually 55mm shorter.SAFETYRAV scores a full five stars for crash safety. Seven airbags, stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, tilt-and-telescopic steering column and cruise control are all standard equipment, while automatic AWD models get downhill assist to help manage slippery descents.DRIVINGWe like it. It's easy to drive with comfortable seats and roomy interior. The diesel provides plenty of oomph, particularly in the low to mid-range where you want it. During normal driving the wagon remains predominantly front wheel drive to reduce fuel consumption. When things get slippery the all-wheel drive kicks in to provide sure-footed, four-paw grip.There's also a new Sport mode to liven things up. It weights up the steering, sharpens throttle response and delivers more aggressive gearshifts. Rear legroom is generous. Thinner front seats create an extra 41mm of leg space for rear seat occupants. The tow capacity is now 1000kg or one tonne (from July 2013 production).VERDICTThis one's a keeper. Looks good, goes good and doesn't use much fuel but GXL misses out on satellite navigation.

It's been a long time coming but Toyota has finally delivered a diesel version of its popular RAV4 sports wagon. Priced from $35,490 the diesel is $3500 more than the equivalent petrol model. As such, it will probably account for only a small number of sales  but we could be wrong?VALUEThe new RAV4 comes in two and four-wheel drive, with a choice of three engines, three transmissions and three trim levels: GX, GXL and top of the range Cruiser. Our test vehicle is the mid range, all-wheel drive diesel GXL priced at $38,990 with the optional $2500 auto fitted which brings the price to $41,490 before on-road costs.Standard equipment includes Bluetooth, 6-speaker CD audio, roof rails, a rear spoiler, a cargo net and privacy screen, with a rear seat that reclines and is split 60/40.  Steel wheels are standard and all-wheel drive models get a sound-deadening windscreen.Our GXL adds 17-inch alloys, a reversing camera, computer screen, sporty seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, power-retractable exterior mirrors, keyless smart entry and push-button ignition.TECHNOLOGYThe 2.2-litre common-rail turbo-diesel pumps out 110kW of power and 340Nm of torque from 2000 revs. The two-wheel drive petrol models gets a CVT, but in this case it's paired with a traditional six-speed auto with the facility to change gears manually.Fuel consumption from the 60-litre tank is rated at 6.5 litres/100km for the auto. The auto can tow a 500kg load (manual 550kg). Toyota has announced that the braked tow rating of all RAV4 diesels will be upgraded to 1000kg from July 2013 production, but this figure still lags behind the 1500kg rating carried by 2.5 litre petrol models, and well behind most of its rivals.DESIGNLike the new Toyota Corolla, the styling is edgier and attractive, but it looks suspiciously like a Mitsubishi Challenger from the back. Nothing like one to drive though, with sharper driving dynamics that include a new all-wheel drive system and selectable Sport mode on most models. It's 55mm shorter too, after the relocation of the spare from the door to a position underneath the rear.SAFETYRAV4 scores a full five stars for crash safety from the Australian NCAP organisation. Seven airbags, stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, tilt-and-telescopic steering column and cruise control are all standard equipment, while automatic AWD models get downhill assist to help manage slippery descents.DRIVINGIt's early days yet but our initial impression is favourable.  It's a delight to drive, comfy and roomy inside and the torquey diesel provides plenty of oomph, particularly in the low to mid range where you want it.During normal driving the wagon remains predominantly front wheel drive to reduce fuel consumption. When things get slippery the all-wheel drive system pushes power to the rear wheels for sure footed, four-paw grip.Sport mode contributes to better handling and a more dynamic, sporting drive by decreasing power-steering assistance to give the driver a more direct feel. It also sharpens throttle response and adapts the control logic for the automatic and CVT gearboxes to allow for more responsive gearshifts.It's too early to report on the long-term fuel consumption -- we'll be back in the near future to tell you about that -- but it's sure to be better than a petrol model.VERDICTSo far so good. It's been quite a while since we last drove a RAV4, but this one feels like a keeper.

Toyota RAV4 Cruiser and Subaru Forester XT go head-to-head in this comparative review. 

Small SUVs are the auto equivalent of smartphones: you have to be seen with one. Those who haven’t already caught on are rushing to buy (or build) light and compact crossovers. In Australia, couples and families hold the view that SUVs represent the “best of both worlds”.With fuel economy and comfort to rival a small car; the space to carry furniture or friends and a high ride height for the “command” seating; SUVs are a multi-purpose lifestyle accessory. It’s just a case of which design suits that lifestyle.THE CARSExcluding the all-paw Forester, the rest of the fleet are front-wheel drive models. All are entry level automatic or continuously variable transmission versions. And all sold more than 1000 cars last month, making them as mainstream as a Toyota Camry.THIRSTSkyActiv technology gives the Mazda CX-5 the lead in the weekly fuel costs at around $26.33. That’s more than $8.50 cheaper than the dearest vehicle here, Hyundai’s iX35. It is small change over a week but adds up to more than $425 a year being siphoned out of the wallet/purse, so it’s worth considering.SERVICINGCaps off to the capped-price carmakers. Online disclosure means it is easy to see how much servicing of a Toyota or Hyundai will be. As yet, Honda doesn’t have the option of capped price servicing, while Subaru and Mazda want vehicle identification before they’ll quote the costs. Hyundai heads this pack with one yearly visit to the dealer that will cost $259.DEPRECIATIONBuying a new car is an investment in emotion, not practicality. The best-performing of this group - the Mazda, Subaru and Honda - will be worth just 54 per cent of its new price value in three years, according to Glass’s Guide. The Hyundai and Toyota will have halved in value over that period.MISCGovernment charges vary by state; check with your local authority for registration on a specific vehicle. The capped price servicing won’t cover items subject to wear in the normal course of their life, such as tyres, windscreen wipers and brake pads.*Fuel costs based on April national average of 142.6c for 91 ULP and 15,000km travelled annually.Mazda CX-5 FWD Fuel use @ 6.4L/100km = $1368.96 p/a = $4106.88 over 3 yrsCost $29,880. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $394 first yr; $1745 over 3 yrs/60,000kmToyota RAV4 CVTFuel use @ 7.4L/100km = $1582.86 p/a = $4748.50 over 3 yrsCost $30,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 50 per centServicing: $340/yr; $1020 over 3 yrs/60,000kmHyundai ix35 ActiveFuel use @ 8.5L/100km = $1818.15 p/a = $5454.45 over 3 yrsCost $28,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 50 per centServicing: $259/yr; $777 over 3 yrs/45,000kmSubaru Forester 2.5iFuel use @ 8.1L/100km = $1732.59 p/a = $5197.77 over 3 yrsCost $32,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $542.72 first yr; $1983.70 over 3 yrs/75,000kmHonda CR-V VTiFuel use @ 7.7L/100km = $1647.03 p/a = $4941.09 over 3 yrsCost $31,790. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $483.64 first yr; $1450.92 over 3 yrs/60,000km