The Toyota RAV4 (pronounced "rav-four") is a compact crossover SUV built and marketed by the Toyota Motor Corporation. It was introduced in Japan in 1994 and in Europe and North America in 1996 to cater to consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of four wheel drive, along with the maneuverability and fuel economy of a smaller car. The early success of the RAV4 paved the way for other compact SUVs such as the Honda CR-V, the Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute/CX-5, and the Subaru Forester. Its name stands for "Recreational Activity Vehicle, 4-wheel drive," although not all models have four wheel drive as this is optional in some countries.
First generation (1994-2000)
The first generation RAV4 was offered with two and four-door variants, while the US featured a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that made 120 horsepower. An all-wheel-drive option was available too, and customers could choose between a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. In 1998, the front and rear ended were tweaked, and a two-door soft-top arrived for the US market. A two-door hardtop was axed for the next year.
Second generation (2001-2005)
The second RAV4 featured only a single trim level and could be had with either front or all-wheel drive. A 2.0 liter, four-cylinder engine was again on offer, this time generating 148 hp; as standard, all editions of the model came with ABS, air conditioning, a six-speaker CD stereo and powered windows, mirrors and heated seats. A sport package added a mesh grille, hood scoop, color-keyed door handles, roof rack, silver pedals, heated mirrors, gray-painted bumpers and overfenders, and sport seats. Options included smaller or larger tires, alloy wheels, a sunroof and keyless entry. In 2004, the RAV4 was slighty redesigned and upgraded with a 2.4-liter motor that drove 161 horsepower.
Third generation
The third generation RAV4 was outfitted with an all-new design for the 2006 year. All American models featured an upgraded 2.4 liter, four-cylinder engine with 166 hp, plus a 3.5-liter V6 borrowed from the check Toyota Avalon, able to push 269 hp. Alongside the exterior and powertrain changes, the 2005 RAV4 boasted an impressive 21 percent increase in interior space and new two-seat third-row option (US and Canadian-spec only). The RAV4 was marketed with both front and four-wheel drive drivetrains in the United States, while other countries have only the former. Production on North American RAV4s takes place in Toyota's Tahara, Japan facility; however, from 2008, these cars will be built exclusively at Toyota's Woodstock, Ontario plant.
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