Toyota RAV4 (06 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 23 February 2011
The RAV4 has become one of the most successful small 4x4s since it was originally launched in 1994. So much so in fact, that it has inspired plenty of offroaders from other carmakers. With ever more competition, it has had to constantly improve and as a result it's now one of the best 4x4s on the market, helped by an excellent reputation for reliability. The engine choice is limited to one diesel and one petrol, but inside there's a neatly-styled and good quality cabin, while on the road it's refined and comfortable. Newer offroaders may be more stylish, but the RAV4 remains a great choice and one that's guaranteed to never let you down. It was upgraded in 2009 with more powerful engines and subtle exterior changes.
4 out of 5

Safety

Like other recent Toyotas, the RAV4 performed pretty well in the Euro NCAP crash tests, receiving four stars overall and scoring maximum points in side impact and pole tests. However, plenty of other similar size 4x4s have achieved the maximum five stars. All models come with nine airbags, including dual front, side and curtain airbags and - unusually - a kneebag for the driver. There are also five three-point seatbelts, ABS and vehicle stability control with traction control on top models.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Child Protection Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    3 out of 5
4.5 out of 5

Reliability

The cliché about outstanding Toyota reliability continues to ring true. It's a reputation that many other car makers would be proud to inherit. It's business as usual for the new RAV4 - the cabin oozes quality fit-and-finish and there's no reason to doubt any other area of the build. Owners of the 2000-2006 generation of RAV4 are glowing in their praise. See what real owners have said about the RAV4 in our owners' reviews section.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.