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2007 Toyota Rav4 SPRT 4X4
2007 Toyota Rav4 SPRT 4X4


MSRP: $25,740

As tested: $27,784

3.5-liter, 269-hp V6

21 city/28 highway

More info:
www.toyota.com/rav4



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In 1996, Toyota introduced its Rav4 in the States, and the mini SUV looked like a tater tot on wheels. Much has changed. Today, small SUVs have hit their design stride in a big way, and the rad little Rav4 is a stylish class leader, along with the CRV and Escape. It has a very smooth overall line and actually looks like a more evolved version of the pricier Acura RDX. Oddly, we don't like its most distinctive new elements -- the ragged saw-toothed back end is a bit too extreme and the circa 1970s Caddy Eldorado glossy spare tire cover is completely out of place.

We expected econo box fit and finish here, but the level of quality was definitely better. The tri-oval instrument cluster was elegantly simple, we loved the covered cubby compartment above the glove box and the sliding/reclining rear seats were a totally unexpected pleasure. What didn't we dig? The cloth interior felt a bit chintzy, the pump-action front-seat height adjuster was annoying and -- a trend we cannot stand -- the big side mirrors created unwieldy blind spots.

The Rav4 base models sport a 2.4-liter, 166-horse, 4-cylinder motor. Our "SPRT" tester was equipped with a very peppy optional 3.5-liter, 269-horse V6, well worth the extra three or so grand. While we loved the extra zip and zoom, the boost in power made it jumpy off the line. The transmission could also flutter in the low end. We drove the Rav4 in town and on the interstate and, all in all, found it solid, quiet, comfortable and, with the engine upgrade, deceptively quick.

-- by John D. Thomas

WHEELS REVIEW ARCHIVE