Toyota RAV4
Overall Score - 8.9 (Very Good)
The RAV4 delivers one of the best combinations of power, performance and interior comfort in its class. If you're in the market for an affordable compact SUV with similar cargo room and fuel economy, you should also consider the Honda CR-V. For a quality SUV for less money, consider the Saturn VUE.
Experts give the 2007 Toyota RAV4 kudos for its staying power. More than 10 years after it was first introduced, the compact SUV that started the class still maintains a strong reputation for reliability, safety and interior comfort. Kelley Blue Book sums up the RAV4's attributes: "If you want a small-to-midsize Japanese-built sport utility vehicle that combines car-like performance, ride, handling and fuel economy...the RAV4 is a good choice." Motor Week appreciates the 2007 RAV4's ability to evolve, especially with the introduction of a V6 engine and a third-row seating option. "What started as a great small idea is now a bigger and still impressive effort," they say. Car and Driver selected the RAV4 as "Best Small Sports Utility" for 2007, and claims that it "may be the quickest-accelerating, best-handling, and most efficiently packaged, uhhhh, sub-Suburban on the market today."
Although the 2007 Toyota RAV4 is considered an excellent purchase for its fuel economy and superior resale value, it's priced at the high end of the compact SUV range and options can add up. Consumer Guide explains "Toyota's reputation for resale value is another asset. Base prices are reasonable, but stickers skyrocket with options...Shop around, but don't leave the RAV4 off your list. It's a Recommended Pick." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Toyota RAV4 a rating of "excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to other vehicles in its class.
In addition to the base model, the 2007 Toyota RAV4 comes in Sport and Limited trims.
RAV4 Performance - 7.9 (Good)
With a bigger frame and a V6 engine option, the RAV4 is judged as a compact SUV with midsize capabilities. Motor Trend hints that thanks to the RAV4's "sledgehammer V-6, the vehicle that originated the small, car-based SUV segment in this country might represent an inflation approved even by a worrywart like Greenspan." continue
RAV4 Exterior - 8.1 (Very Good)
Once regarded as merely "cute" when it was introduced in 1995, reviewers are happy to report the 2007 Toyota RAV4 has a more mature look. As Car and Driver describes, "The old RAV4 looked the preppy freshman...The new one is a postgraduate, drawn clean with wind-swept lines and an adult face." continue
RAV4 Interior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2007 Toyota RAV4 is well regarded for its interior style and comfort. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman finds it "handsome...with angled armrests on the doors and other stylish touches that are a step beyond the mere utilitarianism found in many smaller SUVs." continue
RAV4 Safety - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2007 Toyota RAV4 earns high safety scores in both government crash test ratings and private tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Auto critics are pleased with its safety offerings, especially as this new model provides once-optional side air bags as standard safety equipment. continue
RAV4 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2007 Toyota RAV4 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Toyota has a basic warranty for new cars that covers the first three years or 36,000 miles. continue
