One way you could describe the RAV4 is that it’s an all-rounder. It’s one of those “utility” vehicles where you can’t go wrong. It works as a daily get-around for a car with extra space. It also works as a family car for those who need, and off-road trims give the RAV4 the extra ground clearance and off-roading tech you would want should you ever need it for necessary or recreational off-road driving.
Perhaps the ironic thing that makes the RAV4 so special is just how average it is. It’s spacious, but not wildly so; it looks good but also in an approachable, everyday way. It has a decent cabin, but it doesn’t claim to be luxurious. Toyota has played it safe with this vehicle, and that is reflected in its fairly muted style.
RAV4s generally come in 4-cylinder engines because that’s better for fuel economy while meeting commuting requirements. Some generations back, some RAV4s came with a 3.5-liter V6. But it seems unlikely Toyota will return to that because they didn’t perform well. Most people buying the car don’t need an SUV that can do zero to 60 in about 6 seconds.
Regardless, it’s still nice to know you could get the RAV4 in many engine varieties and trims. And you can buy it secondhand too.
