But fuel efficient doesn't have to mean boring. As I previously mentioned the RAV4 zips around town effortlessly. Really big hills will slow it down slightly if filled to capacity, but not disconcertingly so. Its fully independent suspension soaks up bumps fairly well and smoothes out curves with sporty agility. It should be noted that the RAV's limited slip differential has been deleted for 2003.
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| The RAV4's 4-cylinder engine makes it the most fuel efficient SUV available, but that doesn't mean it's boring. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
What's wrong with it? I couldn't find anything to really complain about. I would have liked a little more get up and go in the automatic equipped model I tested, the 5-speed manual my Dad bought is much more lively. Also, there aren't many colours to choose from. With Vintage Gold and Impulse Red deleted for 2003, the palette now only includes black, an off-white called Frosted Pearl, Graphite Gray Pearl, Natural White, Titanium, Tropical Forest which is a deep metallic green, and the Spectra Blue Mica of my test vehicle.
Even though new, the deep blue RAV showed hairline scratches as well as rock chips, especially at the base of the hood, around the grille and front fascia. This is not a problem with the RAV4 specifically, or blue metallic Toyota's in general, but is consistent with most dark colors found on all brands. Even though my parents fell in love with this color I recommended silver just because it still looks decent when dirty and hides scratches well. I think they're grateful of that decision now.
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| High resale value, great fuel efficiency, and top-notch reliability make the RAV4 a great choice. (Photo: General Motors) |
All in all, Dad, you not only made a good choice in color but a great choice in a new vehicle. The RAV4 is a fun little sport utility on pavement and even reasonably capable off the beaten track. Its other attributes, that I mentioned earlier, including a high expected resale value, stellar fuel economy, superb build quality and top-notch reliability - incidentally I just checked 2001 through 2003 recalls for Toyota and none were recorded for the entire brand - make it all that much better. Sure there are larger and more powerful SUVs on the market, but bigger and bolder doesn't mean better.
