2010 Toyota Rav 4 review

[ToyotaDubai]

The RAV4 is part of the handful of compact SUVs that started the trend for the high-riding car back in 1996.

Fast-forward 14 years and the RAV4 is now in its third generation; bigger than its predecessors and taking on competition from the likes of Honda’s CR-V and Chevrolet’s Captiva.

Don’t expect the RAV4 to be an off-roader in the style of the larger FJ Cruiser or Land Cruiser Prado – there’s four-wheel drive, but it’s designed to stay on the tarmac rather than hit the dunes.

Power comes from a four-cylinder, 2.4-litre engine that develops 168bhp. There are three trim levels available. The basic model includes a rudimentary radio and cassette player (does anyone still use cassettes…?), as well as steel wheels, electric windows and ABS, while there are airbags for both driver and front seat passenger.

Upgrade to the mid-range model and the equipment list features dual zone air con, a cassette AND CD player (with MP3 player compatibility) and cruise control, as well as front fog lamps and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The top-spec model is available in two flavours. The first sees the seats upholstered in fabric, while inside there’s a CD changer and rear parking sensors, as well as Bluetooth phone connectivity. An optional Urban Runner package adds some chrome detailing and a black and silver steering wheel. The second top-spec model adds leather upholstery and an electrically operated front driver’s seat. The seat is heated, although we can’t imagine that’s much of an advantage in the Middle East. Safety features added include curtain side airbags and VSC (electronic stability control).

SOURCE: http://automiddleeast.com/2010-toyota-rav4/