Now standard in all RAV4s is a more powerful 2.4-L 16-valve DOHC VVT-i 4-cylinder engine. Now 161 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 165 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm pushes the 1,305 kg (2,877 lb) sport utility along, a significant improvement when compared to last year's RAV at 148 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 142 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm.
One gripe I usually have with SUVs, whether small or larger, is visibility. Such was not the case with the RAV4, but rather it offers a decent visual range. Its blind spots are easy to see around for the most part, but the tall rear liftgate panel got in the way when looking through the narrow window out back. Still it wasn't so high as to hinder me from parallel parking on a busy street.
Despite its few faults the RAV4 is truly a vehicle for the masses. Whether young or wise, this trusty Toyota is a well-made vehicle with much better than average reliability according to independent surveys. Hands down, it was a pleasure to drive and without a doubt would also be a pleasure to own.
Specifications (Chili Special Edition):
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| Whether young or wise, this trusty Toyota is a well-made vehicle with much better than average reliability. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
Despite its few faults the RAV4 is truly a vehicle for the masses. Whether young or wise, this trusty Toyota is a well-made vehicle with much better than average reliability according to independent surveys. Hands down, it was a pleasure to drive and without a doubt would also be a pleasure to own.
Specifications (Chili Special Edition):
- Price Range (MSRP): $27,790 - $28,990 (base RAV4 starts at $24,485)
- Body Type: 4-door SUV
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Engine: 161 hp, 165 lb-ft of torque, 2.4-L, 16-valve, DOHC, I-4
- Transmission: 5-spd manual (opt 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,305 kg (2,877 lb)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (max): 1,935 (68.3 cu ft.)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 10.5 / 8.2 L/100 km (27/ 35 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36 / 60,000 comprehensive
- Direct Competitors: Chevy Tracker, Ford Escape, Honda CRV, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep TJ/Liberty, Kia Sorento, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander, Suzuki Vitara/Grand Vitara, Saturn VUE
- Web site: www.toyota.ca
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