Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 competes in the crowded crossover market against the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Yeti. With its upright stance and firm suspension, it offers a good mix of stability and comfort, and feels very car-like to drive. The RAV4 is built to a high standard and is spacious inside. The 2.2-litre diesel engine returns an appealing blend of performance and economy. For most buyers, the entry-level, non-4x4, XT-R diesel model makes the best choice, as it's the most economical of the bunch. The range is simple, with a choice of four options - all of which offer generous equipment levels.
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Pros:
- Impressive rear passenger space
- Large boot
- Well equipped
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Cons:
- Not the best to drive in its class
- Not the best-looking SUV
- Expensive top-spec models
The Toyota RAV4 arrived in 1994 as one of the first sport utility vehicles. Now in its fourth generation, Toyota's rival for the Ford Kuga and Honda CR-V is bigger than ever before, and features more space for passengers and their luggage. Other cars are cheaper and better to drive, but the RAV4 is well equipped and well built.
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Pros:
- Spacious cabin for families
- High level of safety and comfort equipment
- Diesel engine is economical
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Cons:
- Cabin isn’t as quiet as rivals
- Engines are noisy
- Some of the cabin plastics look cheap
Toyota's RAV4 faces stiff competition from family crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai and VW Tiguan, which mix SUV looks and safety with hatchback practicality and car-like comfort. The RAV4 is built to excellent standards, and is spacious, although on the road it's neither as comfortable nor as fun to drive as many rivals. The 2.2-litre diesel engine makes life with the RAV4 relatively inexpensive, however, and reliability shouldn’t be an issue.
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