Specs Box: 2011 Toyota Rav4
| » Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V-6 |
| » Performance: 2WD or 4WD |
| » Transmission: four-speed or five-speed automatic |
| » Fuel economy: 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway on 4×2 models; 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway on 4×4 models |
| » MSRP: Starting at $21,925 |
In a time when Toyota has been plagued with negative press and recalls, there are still plenty of silver linings for the automaker.
Rather than dwell on the negative, Toyota has worked to boost public confidence by issuing voluntary recalls for the models that might be defective. They’ve also taken the safest, most popular models and added more features.
Take the Toyota RAV4 for example. Although the appearance of the three models — Base, Sport and Limited — hasn’t changed since 2009, the 2011 models offer optional extras that might lure more drivers to the sport utility vehicle.
In 2011, the Upgrade Value Package allows base model buyers to add rear privacy glass, roof racks, a rear cargo area tonneau cover and even an optional tow package for V-6 models that will support capacities up to 3,500 pounds.
As you likely have guessed, the Sport model offers even more high-end luxuries including power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade, JBL audio system with Bluetooth and heated, leather-trimmed front seats.
The limited offers an exclusive exterior paint color (Blizzard White Pearl) and a 120-volt power outlet.
What makes these packages stand out is that all models of the Rav4 already come with plenty of extras and options including backup monitor systems with rearview cameras (on all models), two- or three-row seating, plentiful armrests and cup holders and 73 cubic feet of cargo space.
The RAV4’s exterior — a curved, musical body with sophisticated grille and taillamps — is just flashy enough to make you feel as if you’re driving a contemporary SUV without feeling like you’re in a rolling fad.
The models I’ve driven have been peppy, responsive and super easy to maneuver. Turning radius is always a major concern for me, and the RAV4 has arguably the tightest I’ve experienced. Overall the ride is smooth, quiet and comfortable. It’s also safe, as evidenced by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration’s top ratings.
A few things to note: Some critics gripe that the rear door design — which opens like a refrigerator — is a bit cumbersome, especially when loading cargo from a curb. There is also not a way to lift the rear glass and slip a small item in the back.
Finally, the RAV4 is an SUV but this isn’t the model you want to drive for serious off-roading. Sure, it’ll get you to picnic and camping areas, ski resorts, even kayak launch points, but it’s really built as an urban vehicle.
The Rav4’s standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 172 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 RPM. The bottom line: It’s an energetic champion but not ready for the heavy-duty competitions. Really, though, do you want that? If so, you’ll likely pay a whole lot more and have a much larger vehicle that won’t be half as city friendly.
If you’re looking for a fun, solid SUV to get you where you want to go with plenty of cargo in tow, you’d do well to look at the RAV4.
