The second generation RAV4’s aluminium inline 4 is of the same 2.0 liter displacement as the older model’s, but is a significant 40 lb. lighter. Even better, horsepower is up by 21 to 148 bhp at 6000 rpm, and its improved 142 lb. ft torque peak occurs at 4000 rpm, some 600 rpm lower on the tachometer than its predecessor, thanks to the addition of Variable valve Timing intelligence (VVT-i). As a side benefit, the RAV4 now enjoys low emission vehicle (LEV) status. The handling is offered up by a 4 wheel independent suspension with MacPherson struts at the bow, and double wishbones with coil springs and trailing arms at the stern. In addition to its longer wheelbase, the current model has softer springs and more suspension travel than the original. ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) is an optional enhancement to the standard vented front disc and rear drum brake system. Buyers have a choice between a 5 speed manual or 4 speed electronically controlled automatic transmissions. The manual has an over drive top gear while the automatic does not, but this is balanced out by the manual’s 4.56 final drive ratio, versus the automatic’s higher 3.20 ratio.
Interestingly, both gearboxes have transmission coolers. Inside, the RAV4 can comfortably accommodate five occupants and still provide more than 29 cu. Ft of rear cargo space, or the 50/50 split rear bench can be removed for a total of the 68.3 cu. Ft storage. If crisp handling rank high on your compact SUV priority list, the RAv4 demands a very close look.
