The RAV4's V6 option is no more, however, leaving only a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque -- relatively low for its class. A six-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the front wheels in the standard configuration. You can opt for all-wheel drive. A front-wheel drive RAV4 manages 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway; the heavier all-wheel drive system reduces efficiency to 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
Towing ability is low, even for a crossover. While a Ford Escape can tow 3,500 pounds, a RAV4 is limited to 1,500 pounds. Another drawback is its lack of V6 or turbocharged four-cylinder options, leaving the RAV4 well behind many competitors.