Toyota RAV4 – What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Toyota RAV4 ranks 2 out of 22 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 68 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota RAV4, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
More than 10 years after it was first introduced, the RAV4 continues to shine for its excellent combination of power, performance and interior comfort.
The RAV4, last redesigned in 2006, is one of the most well-rounded vehicles in its class. It boasts an affordable base price, excellent fuel economy and a long list of accolades. For 2010, it’s one of Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value award winners. Car and Driver selected it as one of its 5 Best Trucks in both 2007 and 2008, and IntelliChoice gave the 2007 model an award for “Highest Retained Value” in its class.
The RAV4 is consistently compared to the Honda CR-V, which comes with a nearly identical base price, but worse fuel economy. A big plus for the CR-V, however, is its better-rated interior and easier-to-use tailgate design. The RAV4’s cargo door swings to the right, which can make loading and unloading difficult. Apart from that, the RAV4 bests the CR-V on nearly all fronts. It boasts V6 power and an optional third-row seat, both rare features within the compact SUV class. Several reviewers also prefer the RAV4’s refined exterior to the CR-V’s awkward front grille.
Of course, the RAV4 isn’t perfect. Reviewers warn that options, including the V6 engine and third-row seat, can quickly inflate its otherwise affordable base price. And though its fuel economy is good, it’s not the best in its class — the two other gasoline-powered SUVs in the RAV4’s price range, the Chevrolet Equinox and Jeep Patriot, net more miles per gallon. Still, the RAV4 continues to be Toyota’s best-selling SUV, even in the economic downturn.
High demand and high resale value for the RAV4 may make it difficult to negotiate a great deal, but be sure to check for current Toyota Deals that may be available. Since it’s unchanged for 2010, buyers should consider the 2009 model, which may be available at a discount as dealers try to make space on their lots for the new models. Also note that the RAV4 will continue in its current design for a while — its next redesign is expected in 2012.
The RAV4 comes in a base model, performance-oriented Sport and top-of-the-line Limited. All-wheel drive is optional. Since the 2009 and 2010 RAV4 are nearly identical, this review uses research from both model years.
- “Available with the most powerful engine in the compact-SUV class, seating for seven, and impressive cargo room, refinement, and road manners, RAV4 is an easy choice. Toyota’s reputation for resale value is another asset.” — Consumer Guide
- “Spacious, comfortable and easy to drive, the 2009 Toyota RAV4 is a top pick for a crossover SUV, especially if you want a V6 or a usable kid-size third-row seat.” — Edmunds
- “The RAV4’s combination of compact size, plentiful and practical interior space, excellent powertrains, solid and substantial feel, and fine road manners makes for a sensible real-world SUV. The fact that pricing starts at barely over $20 grand is just icing on the cake.” — Car and Driver
- “The RAV4 is among the most versatile compact crossover-type SUVs.” — Truck Trend
- “It’s very much in tune with what buyers now expect from any new utility. That is the biggest possible versatility in the smallest, most efficient package possible.” — Motor Week
- “There is a lot to like about the 2009 RAV. Its size makes it a great errand runner, even if the rear cargo door opens from the wrong side for a U.S. audience. There is the Toyota promise of quality construction and long life. Plus, if you can hold the line on options, you can get one for a reasonable price.” — MarketWatch
