Introduction

Toyota's RAV4 wasn't the first mini sport-utility vehicle, but its success helped start a trend. When it was launched in the U.S. in 1996, industry analysts weren't sure how to categorize this quirky cross between a truck and a compact. But as more customers became aware of the RAV4's relatively low cost, fuel-efficiency, manageable size and sporty image, other manufacturers were quick to follow suit. New and upgraded competitors in the small SUV class include the Honda CR-V, the Kia Sportage, the new Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Subaru Forester. In the same price range but considerably larger and more rugged is the Nissan Xterra. The RAV4 is no longer new and there are few changes for 2000, but it's still a head-turner. Toyota's reputation for quality and reliability has continued to make the RAV4 popular despite the increased competition in the segment it helped create.

Walkaround

The RAV4 remains a visual departure from a crowded highway of look-alike SUVs. The sheetmetal forming its wide body dips downward at the side windows, giving it a muscular, ready-for-action look that is strengthened by an aggressively styled grille and front fascia, a sloping hood with large air intakes, and kicked-up rear quarter panels sculpted around big 16-inch tires on boldly style wheels. A side-opening door dominates the rear; we would prefer if it would swing open away from the curb instead of toward it for easier curbside loading and unloading at the grocery store and airport.

Interior Features

Owners who use their RAV4 for camping or other outdoor duty will appreciate features such as an auxiliary power outlet in the rear cargo area for battery-powered coolers and other gear, as well as four built-in tow hooks. Less hip but equally appreciated features are the full carpeting, dual outside mirrors, intermittent front and rear wipers and a rear window defogger. Front door pockets provide storage, while dual cupholders are integrated into the lower instrument panel. All major passive safety bases are covered with dual airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners and force-limiters, and side-impact door beams. The cockpit is traditional Toyota, with comfortably contoured cloth seats, well-located controls and gauges, and a sporty three-spoke steering wheel. The instrument cluster incorporates a digital odometer, dual trip meter, and upgraded radio features. All-around visibility is excellent, thanks to the sloping hood, tall driving position, and generously sized windows. Our only complaint is the tailgate-mounted spare and tall rear door, which combine to block rear vision slightly. Visibility out the front is excellent. A low step-in height makes it easy to get in and out. Rear seat leg space isn't that bad given the vehicle's overall small size, but we did find it cramped getting to those rear seats through the small secondary doors. With the split-folding rear seat folded flush, the RAV4 can handle 57.9 cubic feet of goods, less than of some of its competitors. In all, the RAV4 offers some of the versatility of larger sport-utility vehicles, but with less room for people and parcels.