Externally, the Limited grade is distinguished from the Sport grade by 17-inch aluminum six-spoke alloy wheels with P225/65 R17 tires and a chrome grille. The Limited also adds a number of interior amenities and offers a wider range of comfort-enhancing options.


Most Powerful Optional Engine in Its Segment

The standard Toyota RAV4 powertrain is an upgraded 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and teamed exclusively to a gated-shift four-speed automatic transmission (no manual transmission is offered). The smooth four-cylinder engine delivers 166 horsepower with 165 lb.-ft of torque @ 4,000 RPM. Fuel efficiency is excellent for the class, with EPA mpg estimates of 24 city/30 highway on 4x2 models and 23 city/27 highway on 4x4 models.

The available 3.5-liter V6 is the powerhouse of its segment, generating a best-in-class 269 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 246 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,700 RPM. The dual VVT-i system affects intake and exhaust valve timing to optimize torque and fuel efficiency.

The V6 is paired exclusively with a gated-shift five-speed automatic transmission. Uphill/downhill shift logic reduces the frequency of gear shifting during winding uphill and downhill driving.

The V6 RAV4 can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in under seven seconds and yet achieves estimated EPA fuel economy mpg ratings of 22 city/29 highway for 4x2 models and 21 city/28 highway for 4x4 models. Both Toyota RAV4 engines use regular-grade (87 AKI) fuel for maximum customer value, and both are EPA certified as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV2).


Sporty Reflexes, Comfortable Ride of RAV4

Even with its larger dimensions and increased passenger room, the RAV4 offers improved maneuverability, with a tighter turning radius than previous models. A stronger, stiffer structure, redesigned suspension and Electronic Power Steering (EPS) help improve ride and handling.

Four-wheel independent suspension gives Toyota RAV4 agile, sporty handling and a comfortable car-like ride. The McPherson strut front suspension has been redesigned, and the trailing double-wishbone rear suspension is new. Diagonally positioned shock absorbers allow a larger and lower rear cargo deck.

The RAV4 employs an advanced Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system rather than a traditional engine-driven hydraulic system. A DC motor and gear reduction system built into the steering gear housing provide steering assist. This compact unit contributes to fuel economy by eliminating the traditional power steering pump and by providing computer-controlled assist only when required.

EPS also allows a more precise and timely control of steering assist than conventional hydraulic systems. And significantly, the system is interfaced with an enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system to enhance safe handling under adverse road conditions (please see page 5 for more details).

Toyota RAV4 Bade grade rides on P215/70 R16 tires with 16-inch steel wheels or available P225/65 R17 tires with steel or aluminum alloy wheels; the V6 models step up to standard 17-inch wheels with P225/65 R17 tires, and the Sport grade, in addition to its 18-inch alloy wheels, enhances driving performance with exclusive sport-tuned suspension.

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