RAV4 Press Reviews
...the new RAV4 has a much more distinctive presence on the road than its predecessor
Just now it doesn't get more competitive than in the compact SUV segment. That's where Toyota's RAV4 has been top of the hill in trans–European market terms for quite some time. In addition to being bigger than the older version, the new car is significantly better appointed both in terms of materials quality and interior styling. And if you think because it is SUV in format that your going to get compromises in ride comfort, forget it.
In the style stakes, the new RAV4 has a much more distinctive presence on the road than its predecessor. You'll feel good driving it. And inside you'll certainly feel that you've moved up a notch or two if your coming from the previous version. The design of the dashboard and instruments particularly impresses. The centre stack matrix is very modern in looks, and very clear in labeling and information transmission.
One element stands out, literally with the black–on–orange readouts of subsidiary info panels. Storage solutions are pretty good, and include space under the rear floor. The seats fold in the case of the rear seat, providing an almost flat floor. And the folding is easily done. Overall it was an extremely pleasant car to drive, whether on some indifferent back roads or a motorway run. From a safety point of view, there are very few mainstream cars now that don't come with all the accessories. The RAV4 even has a driver's knee bag, something originated in more expensive Toyota cars and now filtering down the range.
Brian Byrne, Sunday Tribune