No stopping the RAV4 [2.23.8]

[T Mac]

The RAV4 (Recreational Active Vehicle with four-wheel drive) was introduced in 1996 as basically an underpowered runabout, but it got continual updates as rivals such as the Honda CR-V became more attractive.

The third-generation RAV4 shocked rivals by arriving in 2006 as a much larger, roomier model with the most powerful engine -- a 269-horsepower V-6 -- in the compact SUV class, while retaining an economical 166-horsepower four-cylinder. That RAV4 also became the first compact SUV with optional third-row seating.

The RAV4 always has been popular but really caught on here last year, with U.S. sales of 172,752 units, up from 152,047 in 2006 despite a sluggish market. That's probably partly because the RAV4 is considered more of a carlike crossover vehicle than an SUV -- and more-agile carlike crossovers with higher fuel efficiency have become more popular than SUVs.

Click here (http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/jedlicka/809016,srch-auto-DJ022308.article) to read the entire review from SearchChicago.com

[Davecr-v]

If it wasn't for the girly styling and poorly laid out interior the Rav 4 would be great you gotta say it toyota has great finishing skills.

[OSX2000]

For current models, the RAV4 definitely wins for exterior design, but the CR-V wins for the interior.

[PINODY]

For current models, the RAV4 definitely wins for exterior design, but the CR-V wins for the interior.Best Exterior = Nissan ROGUE! :cool:

[Davecr-v]

For current models, the RAV4 definitely wins for exterior design, but the CR-V wins for the interior.

Yeah but Toyota was ahead on the curvy styling the car has always been rounder and more curvy while gen 1-2.5 V's were more masculine and had firmer lines something I like an SUV should have a bold firm presence (ex. Land Rovers and Range Rovers) even if it is a Crossover. Toyo's interior was pretty lame especially that 3rd row which would be good for people who don't have legs but it is quiet and well built.