The Toyota RAV4 (pronounced "rav-four") is a compact crossover SUV offered by the Toyota Motor Corporation, first released in Japan in 1994 and in Europe and North America in 1996. Its design served to bridge the gap between SUVs offering increased cargo room, visibility, and the optional all wheel drive, while giving the maneuverability and fuel economy of a smaller car. This successful vehicle spawned a variety of similar models from competitors such as the Honda CR-V, the Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute/CX-5, and the Subaru Forester. The acronym "RAV4" stands for "Recreational Activity Vehicle, 4-wheel drive," even though not all versions are equipped with four wheel drive.
First generation (1994-2000)
The first generation RAV4 was available in either two- or four-door versions. It was equipped with a 2.0 L I4 engine and a choice of either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, as well as front wheel drive or four wheel drive. In 1998, the RAV4 was given an updated front and rear fascia, and an exclusive two-door soft top was now available in the US. In 1999, the two-door hardtop was dropped from the American lineup.
Second generation (2001-2005)
The second generation RAV4 came as a single base model, though it still retained the front or all wheel drive options. This RAV4 featured a 2.0 L I4 engine producing 148 hp, as well as 16 inch wheels, anti-lock brakes, stability control, air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, a six-speaker CD stereo, and power windows, mirrors, and heated seats. A sport package was available and added a mesh grille, hood scoop, color-keyed door handles, a roof rack, silver sport pedals, heated mirrors, gray-painted bumpers and overfenders, and sport fabric seats. In 2004, the RAV4 was slightly restyled and featured a 2.4 L I4 engine producing 161 hp. It became extremely popular in Australia, where it became the best-selling SUV in 2001 and best-selling compact SUV in 2004.
Third generation
A completely redesigned Toyota RAV4 was released for the 2006 model year. It runs a 2.4 L four-cylinder engine capable of 166 hp, and a new 3.5 L V6 engine from the Toyota Avalon was available, producing a powerful 269 hp. For North America, the new RAV4 has a unique third row seat capable of seating two small children. The wheelbase was made two versions, short wheelbase for the Asian and European markets, and a long-wheelbase model for North America. The RAV4models sold in North America are currently assembled at the Toyota's Tahara, Aichi, Japan plant, however production will move to Toyota's Woodstock, Ontario, plant in 2008.
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