When Toyota introduced the RAV 4 in 1994 it was the world’s first compact SUV. Now the market is crowded with 19 similar models and the cars have grown up.
The new sharper-styled fourth-generation RAV 4 is half a metre longer than the original and much more luxurious. Britain gets one petrol and two diesel versions with two or four-wheel-drive, and 80 per cent of buyers are expected to opt for the 4x4. That’s just as well, because that version feels far better planted on the road and corners with a minimum of fuss.
The cabin has a classy feel, helped by a stitched and padded lower dashboard panel. Head and leg-room are generous, especially in the back. Rear seats recline or fold flat to create 1,746 litres of floor-to-ceiling loadspace.
At the launch the two-litre 122hp diesel engine felt adequate but the 2.2-litre version with 148hp was far perkier and particularly suited automatic transmission. The two-litre 149hp petrol version was not available.
Priced between £22,600 and £29,300, the RAV 4 makes a strong case for itself against rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Ford Kuga and VW Tiguan. Despite Toyota’s keenness on hybrid power, there is no electrically assisted version in the pipeline at the moment because of the RAV 4’s popularity as a tow car.
TOYOTA RAV 4 2.2-LITRE INVINCIBLE AWD AUTO
Top speed: 115mph;
Combined fuel consumption: 42.2mpg;
Emissions: 176g/km;
Price: £29,295
