2003 Toyota RAV4 Review

While the RAV isnt as big on the inside as some of its competitors, its 50/50 split-folding and removable rear bench seat opens up cargo space if only two or three occupants are on board. Seating in mind, I found plenty of driver and passenger room for my head, shoulders and legs but Im hardly a tall, broad shouldered person. Its entirely possible much larger people would find it cramped.

The RAV4s thrifty 4-cylinder might cramp some peoples style too, especially those used to the torque associated with a V6 or V8 engine. Personally, I like high revving small displacement engines especially when passing by the gas station. Thats the tiny Toyotas forte, delivering 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel efficient SUV currently available.

But fuel efficient doesnt have to mean boring. As I previously mentioned the RAV4 zips around town effortlessly. Really big hills will slow it down slightly if filled to capacity, but not disconcertingly so. Its fully independent suspension soaks up bumps fairly well and smoothes out curves with sporty agility.

Whats wrong with it? I couldnt find anything to really complain about. I would have liked a little more get up and go in the automatic equipped model I tested, the 5-speed manual my Dad bought is much more lively. Also, there arent many colours to choose from.

Even though new, my deep blue RAV test vehicle showed hairline scratches as well as rock chips, especially at the base of the hood, around the grille and front fascia. This is not a problem with the RAV4 specifically, or blue metallic Toyotas in general, but is consistent with most dark colors found on all brands. Even though my parents fell in love with this color I recommended silver just because it still looks decent when dirty and hides scratches well. I think theyre grateful for that decision now.

All in all, Dad, you not only made a good choice in color but a great choice in a new vehicle. The RAV4 is a fun little sport utility on pavement and even reasonably capable off the beaten track. Its other attributes, that I mentioned earlier, including a high expected resale value, stellar fuel economy, superb build quality and top-notch reliability - incidentally I just checked 2001 through 2003 recalls for Toyota and none were recorded for the entire brand - make it all that much better. Sure there are larger and more powerful SUVs on the market, but bigger and bolder doesnt mean better.