Toyota RAV4 (2000 - 2005) 2.0 D-4D NRG 3d (2002/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It is an outgoing and adventurous character. Reliable and helpful, and amazingly versatile in spite of its smaller size.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Like it. Looks good, drives well, has real presence on the road and are always amazed by the range and magnitude of tasks it completes all in its stride.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. I would like the later model with newer engines and accessories however it is no longer offered in a 3dr swb.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not sure. Shan't require a replacement for some time to come and will likely look to an electric SUV when they become more readily available and practical in terms of battery performance.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,800

When did you buy the car?

December 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

No. Hidden niggles that cost to fix and the previous owner had been a careless cluts leaving key scratches and knotted seat belts etc. Exterior trim had been polished but was deteriorating and falling off. Transmission was excessively worn and 5th gear failed a week after buying it, something the test drive round town didn't highlight!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Always liked the styling, off-road and handling ability and Toyota reliability and reputation.

What was the dealer like?

A crafty salesman totally without integrity or honesty and only wanting to make money. I'm weary of independent dealers, or any in the UK for this reason but due to urgency and work requirements I gambled on this guy for convenience and lost out.

What's it like to drive?

Very stable. Short length and tight turning are very useful. Height gives excellent visibility and safety. High speed driving is is as good and almost always the Rav4 feels better than most cars in these conditions. Only small niggle is that the short wheel base makes it a bit hoppy on bumpy undulating country roads. But this is only noticeable when compared to my large Volvo S60 saloon which rides like a magic carpet and weighs 2 ton.

What's it like to park?

Brilliant. Slightly wider than the average hatch or family car but immensely maneuverable and gets into tight spaces well. Only trouble is you have to remember the doors are quite long and can be a tight squeeze getting out.

Have you had any problems with the car?

5th gear failure common on Toyotas of this era due to bad driver habits, leaning on gear lever. Hot starting difficulty occurs in summer, these Toyota diesels suffer air locks in the fuel pump occasionally. Turbo failure due to poor servicing by the previous independent dealer care. Otherwise it is a tough cookie now these are resolved.

What's most practical about your car?

Folding and removable rear seats are great. Tight turning and kerb climbing ability is excellent in tight town and village roads. High up driving position gives advantages in traffic.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Good radio though this model has less extras. Exterior trim is handsome and gives a more aggressive appearance that I like.