2ND GENERATION, 2001 - 2005 Toyota RAV4
Toyota's RAV4 is stylish and useful, and comes with Toyota's reputation for quality, durability and reliability. RAV4 handles well and feels stable out on the open road. It's comfortable for running around town, easy to park, and its low load floor makes it convenient for hauling stuff. Toyota completely redesigned and re-engineered the RAV4 for model-year 2001, producing a more refined and better-looking vehicle than the previous-generation model. For 2003, RAV4 adds an optional Sport Package with unique trim inside and out, plus popular comfort and convenience features such as air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, six-speaker stereo, and carpeted floor and cargo mats.
3RD GENERATION, 2006 - 2012 Toyota RAV4
In comparison, the Honda CR-V is more fuel-efficient and has oodles of space in the rear seat and cargo area. But it doesn't have a V6 option or a third-row. The Ford Escape has powerful EcoBoost turbocharged variants and sportier driving characteristics. The Escape is smaller overall and top Titanium level cars get very expensive. The Chevrolet Equinox is larger than many compact crossovers and has an available V6, but lacks a third row option. The Mazda CX- 5 is the fuel economy leader of the compact crossover class, acheiving up to 35 MPG (6,7 L/100 km)˜ highway. It also offers a manual transmission, a rarity these days. The Mazda is smaller than some crossovers though, and the four-cylinder is not as powerful as the V6 RAV4.
It's getting old, but the RAV4 offers a lot of choice for crossover shoppers with a package that is not as large as midsize crossovers, yet doesn't leave out popular features like V6 or third-row seating. The Toyota is worth a look for customers who want a solid all-rounder that offers more space and versatility in exchange for best-in-class fuel economy.
4TH GENERATION, 2013 - 2018 Toyota RAV4
5TH GENERATION, 2019 - 2025 Toyota RAV4
With the last refresh coming in 2023, we expect the Toyota RAV4 to get a full redesign for the 2027 model year. This upgrade could mean a whole new look for Toyota's staple small SUV. Though we're all used to the boxy upright design that the RAV4 carried for generations, the 2023 refresh gave the vehicle softer edges and more rounded corners. We could see a switch to a more upright style again, as big and boxy is once again becoming the norm among today's vehicles.