2010 Toyota RAV4

• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Photos & Videos

Performance - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Toyota RAV4 is well-liked for its car-like performance. Its optional V6 engine also pushes it ahead of competitors based on power alone. However, it doesn't provide the most fun driving experience. For more fun on twisty roads, you could upgrade to the Sport model -- but note that it provides a less comfortable ride. For more of an all-around driver's SUV, consider the all-new Volkswagen Tiguan.

• "One surprise is the RAV4's very firm, most un-car-like ride. Indeed on all but the smoothest paved roads it felt sports car harsh. And we found road noise was quite intrusive." -- Motor Week
• "With four-wheel independent suspension the ride is smooth, though despite its profile it isn't really designed for more than deep snow or muddy two-tracks with ground clearance issues. Cornering falls short of a good sedan's, mainly because it's too tall." -- Washington Examiner
• "Toyota's RAV4 has always been a pleasure to drive. Now, the larger V-6 engine provides RAV4 with a performance edge when compared to its compact SUV competitors." -- Chicago Daily Herald
• "Good for a compact SUV, thanks in part to one of the longest wheelbases in the class. Models with 17-inch tires show little impact harshness on sharp bumps and ridges with only mild jitter on washboard surfaces." -- Consumer Guide

Acceleration and Power

The RAV4's four-cylinder base engine jumped from 2.4 to 2.5 liters for 2009, boosting its output to 179 horsepower and making it more appealing to those who found it underpowered in the past. The CR-V's four-cylinder engine, on the other hand, makes 166 horsepower. Reviewers say the four-cylinder makes enough power. However, if you plan on towing, it may be worth opting for the 3.5-liter 269-horsepower V6, which offers plenty of power without much of a fuel economy penalty -- and it only tacks about $2,000 onto the RAV4's price.

The EPA has not yet rated the 2010 model, but gave the 2009 four-cylinder model a rating of 21/27 mpg city/highway, while V6 models net a respectable 19/27 mpg.

• "With front-wheel drive, the 4-cylinder engine provides good power from a stop. Highway passing and merging response is also better than expected. The 4-speed automatic transmission is slightly hesitant to downshift for more power. The V6 combines with a responsive transmission to provide impressively strong acceleration." -- Consumer Guide
• "In terms of horsepower, the Toyota RAV4 packs quite a wallop and will knock the Honda CR-V down a few rungs." -- NewCars.com
• "People who need the extra power, especially to pull a trailer, should go for the V-6. But if you can get by with the four-cylinder, it's cheaper to buy and to operate." -- Forth Worth Star-Telegram
• "The engine ... was a big surprise. It has a torquey feel for a four-though at 2.5 liters it's big for a four-and accelerating and climbing hills is easier than one would expect." -- Washington Examiner
• "Out on the interstate, the six is a good performer and makes nice sounds when pushed. Otherwise, it is subdued. There is some wind and road noise, but not an unusual amount for this price class." -- MarketWatch

Handling and Braking

Test drivers say the 2010 Toyota RAV4 strikes a good balance of comfort and agility in its handling, making it an able suburban runner. But note that the Sport model sacrifices some comfort for a more aggressive driving experience.

• "Ride and handling are at the top of the small-ute class, thanks to an all-new suspension, stiffer chassis and new awd system." -- AutoWeek
• The "electronic power steering is quick and, unlike some electric steering, doesn't feel numb. And the turning radius is tighter, despite the RAV4's larger dimensions." -- MSN
• "Electric power steering is usually an omen for numbness, but Toyota has somehow infused the RAV's motorized rack with real precision." -- Car and Driver
• "RAV4s have responsive steering and fine straight-line stability but display some noseplow and body lean in fast, sharp turns. Sport models' sport suspension is more adept at handling twisty roads. The brakes provide good stopping control and pedal feel." -- Consumer Guide

All-Wheel Drive

The Toyota RAV4's optional all-wheel drive system is great for some rough terrain, but don't assume that it will take you far off road. It's mostly meant for inclement weather, which may be worth it if you live in a snowy climate. All-wheel-drive models tack about $1,400 onto the RAV4's base price.

• "Those equipped with all-wheel drive feature an ingenious -- but non-gnarly -- on-demand system that incorporates an electromagnetic coupling at the rear differential rather than a center diff to apportion torque among the four wheels." -- Automobile Magazine
• "This vehicle likely wouldn't be advisable for serious off-roaders, but for steep inclines and some inclement weather situations, it would probably do just fine." -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution
• "The four-wheel-drive system is on-demand, which means you operate in front-wheel-drive until slippage puts all four wheels to work." -- Chicago Tribune