The 2010 Toyota RAV4 is once again among the top choices in the small-to-midsize crossover SUV category. There's just so many pluses. It's comfortable and surprisingly spacious for its size, its handling is excellent, the build quality is solid, as is its crash test ratings, the optional V6 engine provides outstanding power while still being fuel efficient, and there's actually a useable (for kids) third-row seat.
For those who don't recall, it was the RAV4 that introduced today's hugely popular car-based small SUV concept (crossover) 14 years ago. It was a leader then and, although experiencing a myriad of changes since, remains a top pick today. Today's roomy RAV4 has an available V6 engine that pumps out twice the power of that first RAV4 while still getting about the same gas mileage performance. It also now seats up to seven passengers and offers luxury features such as leather upholstery and navigation.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2010 Toyota RAV4 is offered in three trims: base, Sport and Limited. Each comes in a choice of either front or all-wheel drive as well as in four-cylinder or V6 engine models.
Even the base RAV4 is already well-equipped with standard features that include full power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning, 16 inch steel wheels, keyless entry, a limited-slip differential (on front-drive models), a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, driver seat height adjustment and a 6-speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The base RAV4 V6 4WD also comes with standard 17 inch alloy wheels (optional on other base models).
The RAV4 Sport model then adds a sportier-tuned suspension, 18 inch alloys and color-keyed bumpers. There's also a Sport Appearance package for all four-cylinder or 4WD V6 Sport models that includes run-flat tires, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a leather-wrapped shift knob, a spare tire-less rear door, chrome exterior details and heated sideview mirrors.
The RAV4 Limited model comes with the regular suspension and 17 inch alloy wheels, and adds the heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights (optional on the Sport), a hard shell tire cover on the spare, keyless ignition and entry, roof rails, and an upgraded stereo with a 6-disc CD changer and satellite radio (optional on the other models).
In addition, all RAV4 V6 models come with standard downhill assist control and hill-start assist (also standard with the four-cylinder equipped with the optional third-row seat).
Optional features vary depending on geographic region and are mostly grouped into packages. The third-row seat and back-up camera are available options for all models. Optional features offered for the Sport and Limited models include a sunroof, a touchscreen navigation system and a premium 9-speaker JBL audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.
There's also a Premium Package offered for the Sport and Limited (but not when equipped with the third-row) that includes leather upholstery as well as an 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar support. The power lumbar support is also a stand-alone option for the Limited, while all V6 models also have an available tow package.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the 2010 RAV4 is a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 179 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, and is coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. The EPA-estimated gas mileage for this engine with front-wheel drive is 22 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway. The fuel economy rating for the all-wheel drive is nearly as good, coming in at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Also available on all models is an optional 3.5 liter V6 that delivers a robust 269 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, and is mated with a five-speed automatic transmission. In performance tests, a 2010 RAV4 V6 4WD was timed going from a standstill to 60 mph in just 7.2 seconds. And gas mileage performance for the V6 with front-wheel drive comes in at an impressive 19 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway. What's more, the AWD only loses 1 mpg on the highway.
In RAV4s with 4WD, the power is directed to the front wheels until slippage occurs, then power is distributed to the rear wheels. When using the true 4WD lock feature, particularly useful for driving in the snow or for light off-road duty, the front and rear power is split 50-50. A properly equipped RAV4 V6 has a tow capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all 2010 RAV4 models include antilock disc brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, whiplash-reducing front headrests, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Hill-start assist and downhill assist control are also standard on RAV4s with the V6 or third-row seat.
In government crash tests, the RAV4 received perfect five-out-of-five stars for both front and rear-occupant protection in side impacts. In frontal impacts, the RAV4 earned five stars for driver protection and four stars for front passenger protection.
Interior:
The RAV4's cabin is attractive, spacious and user-friendly. Controls are easy to use and there's plenty of storage space. The inerior is very functional and versatile with rear seats that both recline and can slide forward and backward to either increase passenger or cargo space.
Configuring the RAV4 for optimizing cargo capacity is also very convenient, requiring just the flip of a lever. Removing headrests or folding up seat cushions to get the flat load floor is not necessary. And when configured this way, the RAV4 provides 73 cubic feet of cargo space. The load floor is also positioned quite low, which makes for easier loading.
Drive:
With its tight suspension and responsive electric steering, the 2010 Toyota RAV4 offers a compliant ride with a decent amount of handling agility. It's also fairly capable off-road, although not intended for more than light duty off the pavement.
While the RAV4's four-cylinder engine will satisfy most drivers, the optional V6 is significantly better, providing almost 100 horsepower more with comparable fuel efficiency.
Overall, as good as the RAV4 is, it's always a good idea to check out the competition to help make an informed decision. And there are some very good ones out there. The Chevy Equinox is a bit more upscale and has a roomier backseat,. The Honda CR-V has an edge when it comes to responsive handling as well as a somewhat higher quality interior, while the Kia Sorento also earns high marks for handling. In addition, the Nissan Rogue has perhaps the highest quality interior in the segment as well as the most engaging drive.
How To Get The Lowest Price:
Best Negotiating Tactic: Well, there's definitely a 'best way' when it comes to new car buying. If you want to get the best bottomline, out-the-door price you need to know exactly who to talk to at the dealership, how to make the contact and how to make this person eager to quickly drop prices as low as possible to get your sale.
Those of you in the market for a used car may want to check out this article about how to buy a used car at the lowest price. It details a super effective buying method, one that often beats down prices to wholesale levels.
And somewhat related to this, here's another excellent method that identifies Price-Distressed Cars Right On Dealer Lots. These are vehicles they are so desperate to unload they would welcome your wholesale offer.
In addition, you can also try Bank Repossessed And Government Car Auction Possibilities in your own geographic area. While there can be a lot of junk vehicles at these auctions, there are often absolute gems sprinkled in as well. This article reviews what to expect at open-to-the-public car auctions and how to locate them in your own area.
Prices:
2010 Toyota RAV4 Base:
2WD Base 4-cylinder: listed price: $21,675, invoice price: $20,262
2WD Base V6: listed price: $23,710, invoice price: $22,168
AWD Base 4-cylinder: listed price: $23,075, invoice price: $21,227
AWD Base V6: listed price: $25,110, invoice price: $23,101
2010 Toyota RAV4 Sport:
2WD Sport 4-cylinder: listed price: $23,375, invoice price: $21,854
2WD Sport V6: listed price: $25,305, invoice price: $23,660
AWD Sport 4-cylinder: listed price: $24,775, invoice price: $22,791
AWD Sport V6: listed price: $26,705, invoice price: $24,568
