Rarely offered on this generation, primarily on base models in certain markets (e.g., 5-speed Manual with 2.4L)
Features
Drive Type Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
173.2 inches (2.4L FWD), 174.7 inches (AWD & V6)
Width:
70.1 inches
Height:
65.2 inches (FWD), 65.4 inches (AWD)
Wheelbase:
104.7 inches
Ground Clearance:
8.1 inches
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
31.4 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
68.3 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight 2 4L FWD:
3,460 lbs
Curb Weight 2 4L AWD:
3,595 lbs
Curb Weight 3 5L V6 AWD:
3,715 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good
Active Features
Standard Safety Features:
ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side curtain airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on trim)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard CD player with AM/FM, available premium JBL audio system with subwoofer, auxiliary audio input, optional touchscreen navigation system.
Driver Assistance
Features:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Optional: Backup camera.
Connectivity
Features:
Auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (severe conditions), or 10,000 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil, normal conditions, consult manual for specific interval).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check every 30,000 miles, change fluid at approximately 60,000-100,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule. Consult manual for specific ATF type and interval.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (Toyota Super Long Life Coolant).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil 2 4L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (Full Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil 3 5L V6:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (Full Synthetic recommended)
Transmission Fluid Automatic 5Spd:
Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard)
Transmission Fluid Automatic 6Spd:
Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard)
Coolant:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink)
Brake Fluid:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Toyota Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III
Known Issues
Common Complaints:
Excessive oil consumption (2AZ-FE engine, particularly in earlier models of this generation), occasional ABS/VSC warning lights, minor interior rattles, potential for catalytic converter issues (less common).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Toyota Legacy:
Toyota is renowned for reliability, durability, and quality, a reputation built over decades.
Model Evolution
Rav4 Generation:
Third Generation (2006-2012), XJ40 platform. This generation saw a significant increase in size and offered a longer wheelbase option, moving it further into the compact SUV segment.
Production
Production Location:
Nagoya, Japan; Ontario, Canada
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Awarded for Good performance in front, side, and rear impact tests, and for head restraint design.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally receives good ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction.