MOTORHUB MAGAZINE
car profile
Price
Engine Capacity
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Fuel Econ. (C&H)
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Towing Capacity
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$23,000
2.5L
4
4WD
15.9 gal
24 mpg & 31 mpg
185 @ 6400 rpm
6-Speed Auto
5
Steel Wheels
5
Sports Utility
1500 lbs
172 @ 4100 rpm
equipped with larger wheels, exhibit a more jarring ride.
Critics are impressed with the Toyota RAV4’s cabin
design and sturdiness, but some point out that several
competitors’ interiors are constructed with better materials. Adults in the front and rear seats, reviewers say,
will find plenty of room. Standard equipment in the
RAV4 includes a 6.1-inch touch-screen Entune audio
system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and a USB port.
Dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start,
lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring with
rear cross traffic alert and an upgraded Entune audio
system with navigation and smartphone app integration are available. Reviewers like that the RAV4 comes
equipped with lots of features. They say its dashboard
controls and the standard Entune audio system are easy
to use. However, some complain that the upgraded
touch-screen system can be slow to respond to inputs.
With 73.4 cubic feet of cargo space, the RAV4 has one
of the largest cargo holds in the class. Reviewers find
its flat load floor and available height-adjustable power
liftgate make it easy to load cargo.
what others say…
“The Toyota RAV4 offers very good interior materials and
ergonomics, and we especially like the Entune infotainment
system and the standard rearview camera. However, while
the RAV4 remains a top seller, other compact crossover
SUVs have surpassed it in some key areas. Fuel economy,
while good, is bested by competitors like the Mazda CX-5,
the all-wheel-drive Subaru Forester, and the RAV’s longtime rival, the Honda CR-V.” -- Kelley Blue Book
toyota RAV4
T
he Toyota RAV4 ranks 22 out of 27 Affordable
Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on analysis of published reviews and test drives of the
Toyota RAV4, as well as reliability and safety data.
Relative to some of its competitors, reviewers note that
the Toyota RAV4’s engine is underpowered, but this
compact SUV has a spacious cabin, plenty of cargo
room and numerous standard features.
Toyota RAV4 reviewers point out that some of its rivals
offer engines with more power. Still, they say, the standard four-cylinder engine generates sufficient power for
normal driving. Test drivers note that the standard sixspeed automatic transmission is slow to change gears in
some situations, though it is generally smooth-shifting.
With up to an EPA-estimated 23/30 mpg city/highway,
the Toyota RAV4’s fuel economy is slightly above average for the class. The RAV4’s steering is sharp and it
remains composed through turns, critics add. Reviewers are pleased with the RAV4’s ride, which they say is
smooth and comfortable for long highway commutes.
However, critics agree that Limited models, which are
“Although the Toyota RAV4 isn’t a standout in any one area,
its combination of features, passenger space and everyday
utility warrant a closer look if you’re shopping for a small
crossover.” -- Edmunds
“The latest version of the RAV4 - that’s short for Recreational Active Vehicle with 4WD - isn’t the most stylish or exciting CUV around, but it does provide the space, comfort
and efficiency that buyers prize.” -- Left Lane News (2014)
“As ever, its on-road ride and handling are competent but
not sporty, the powertrain is smooth and efficient and the
price is reasonable.” -- Autoblog (2013)
ISSUE #2 Jun - Sept
13