The business of compact crossover SUVs got a great boost by the launch of Toyota RAV4 manufactured by the iconic Japanese car maker Toyota Motor Corporation. It has seen a great success as a compact SUV. However, as the time progressed and the buyers started looking for alternatives, the likes of Subaru Forester, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape and Honda CR-V flourished big time. Honda CR-V alone emerged as a big competitor for the iconic Toyota RAV4. This is the reason why Toyota brings to the stage a new improved RAV4 to regain its position in the compact crossover SUV arena.

2011 Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4 is available in three trim levels which are Base, Sport and Limited trims. All the trims are available in two wheel drive as well as all wheel drive options. It comes with two engine options. One is a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine which can generate 179 hp of power at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 172 pound feet at 4000 rpm. The other is a 3.5 liter V6 engine that can deliver 269 hp at 6200 rpm and 246 pound feet at 4700 rpm. The four cylinder engine is mated to a four speed electronic auto transmission whereas the V6 engine is mated to the five speed auto transmission.

2011 Toyota RAV4 Interior

The interiors of the new Toyota RAV4 are non-conventional but it just works great. It comes with great fit and finish. The material used on the inside is of superb quality and they adhere keep the reputation of Toyota to its standards. The front seats are very comfortable and supportive. They give you flexibility to adjust them as per the position you find most comfortable. The tilt and telescoping steering wheel is also an added advantage for those who like to adjust these amenities for enhanced comfort and better driving experience. This SUV is quite spacious and ranks high when it comes to the storage capacity.

2011 Toyota RAV4 Rear

On the outside the new RAV4 looks classy and elegant just like other Toyota models. The drag coefficient is best in the segment which gives it better fuel economy as well as lesser noise. The appearance resembles a great deal to the Tundra and Tacoma stances. This is because the Japanese car maker wants to ensure that the gap between the trucks and SUVs is trimmed in order to make the sales of both of these, increase. The headlights are massive and give a clear look in the night. Along with all these standard parts, a number of optional accessories and packages are available which you can choose based on your pocket size and needs.

Talking about the pros and cons, we would say that the biggest +ses are that it offers a great fuel efficiency and cool design. On the minus side, we found the 4-cylinder performance to be not up to the mark to the SUV standards.

The Toyota RAV4 is placed at a great price which beginning from $22,025 and moves up to $25,015 as you go up the trim levels. Other packages to make your RAV4 distinct are also available at additional costs.