The CV Sport model was short-lived, lasting only a year, and was introduced primarily to stimulate sales until the new model arrived in early 2006. In 2005, a new "CV Sport" model was added to the range, which included a non-functional bonnet (hood) scoop, giving the RAV4 a more aggressive appearance. In addition, the model range was given a subtle facelift, largely comprising of a new front bumper with circular fog lights. The CV also received painted bumpers, which came in either silver or body-coloured shades, depending on the body colour. The base Edge was renamed CV, and gained standard air conditioning (previously an option). The RAV4's 2.0 litre engine was upgraded with a new 2.4 litre VVT engine, producing 9% more power (120 kW) and 17% more torque.
In late 2003, the RAV4 was given a styling update, improved equipment, and, in certain markets, a new engine. 16-inch wheels were standard larger tires were available on all wheel drive models. Other options included alloy wheels, heated seats, a sunroof and keyless entry. A sport package added a mesh grille, hood scoop, color-keyed door handles, a roof rack, silver sport pedals, heated mirrors, gray-painted bumpers and fender flares, and sport fabric seats. Some RAV4s came with anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, a six-speaker CD stereo and power windows, mirrors and seats. A 2.0 L I4 engine producing 148 hp (110 kW) and a D4-D diesel engine were available. Although the RAV4 was available as a two-door in Europe, Asia and Australia, the American model was now only available in a four-door configuration. The second generation RAV4 was originally offered in a number of trim levels: NV was 2-wheel drive, while NRG, GX, and VX were permanent 4-wheel drive with differing levels of equipment. Options were ABS brakes (on the Edge), and air conditioning (on all models). Cruiser models gained body-coloured (painted) bumpers and moldings, mirrors, and door handles, alloy wheels, and ABS brakes.Īll models came equipped with a brand-new 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine featuring VVT (variable valve timing), resulting in improved power and torque, as well as fuel consumption. Edge models came with unpainted grey bumpers and side cladding, mirrors, and door handles, and featured steel rims. The main differentiation between the two models was in appearance. The second generation RAV4 went on sale in the middle of 2000, and came in base Edge and upmarket Cruiser models (model designations may vary according to market), in both 3- and 5-door configurations. Second generation (2001–2005) Second generation Later generations of RAV4s, the so-called '4.2s' and '4.3s', have addressed this concern. One sold in 2006 on eBay for over US$50,000.Ī significant criticism of the gasoline-powered first generation RAV4s, often called '4.1s', was that they were underpowered, and had relatively poor fuel economy via their 3SFE engines that were designed for earlier Camrys and 1987-1989 Toyota Celica GT, 1990-1993 S-R and Z-R, as well as 1994-1999 SS-I. These models came with a 60,000-mile (97,000 km) battery warranty, and the vehicles still command high prices on the used-car market. One interesting version, the RAV4 EV, was an all-electric 'zero-emission' model offered for sale in small quantities in California. In other markets, it is the crossover counterpart of the FJ Cruiser.įirst generation (1996–2000) First generationĤ-Door AWD & 1998-2000 2-Door: 1661 mm (65.4 in) In most countries, the RAV4 is the only compact SUV from Toyota.
Its name stands for "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive," although not all RAV4s have four wheel drive, which is optional in some countries. The early success of the RAV4 paved the way for other compact SUVs such as the Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander, the Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute, and the Subaru Forester. The car was introduced in Japan and Europe in 1994 and sales began in 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 full-time four-wheel drive, along with the maneuverability and fuel economy of a smaller car.
The Toyota RAV4 (pronounced "rav-four") is a compact crossover SUV built and marketed by the Toyota Motor Corporation. Toyota RAV4įront engine, front-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive An all-electric version of the RAV4, the RAV4 EV, is detailed on its own page.