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The redesigned 2006 Toyota RAV4 is available with the most-powerful engine in its class and with 3rd-row seating that makes it the first seven-passenger compact SUV. Compared to the 2001-2005 version, the '06 Toyota RAV4 is 6.7 inches longer in wheelbase, 14.5 inches longer overall, and 3.2 inches wider. Base, Sport, and Limited models are offered, each with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. AWD does not include low-range gearing but has a locking center differential. Two engines are offered. The 4-cyl has 166-hp; the V6 269. Both engines come only with automatic transmission. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard. Front-drive Toyota RAV4s have a limited-slip differential. Available for seven-passenger and V6 models is hill ascent control and hill descent control. Sport models have a sport suspension and unique trim.
Toyota RAV4s have a side-hinged cargo door that swings open to the right. Available on all are front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover the first two seating rows and include rollover deployment. Standard seating is for five. Seven-passenger seating is available via an optional folding two-place 3rd row. The folding 2nd-row bench is split 60/40, moves fore and aft, and includes a reclining seatback. Sport and Limited are available with a sunroof. Options exclusive to Limited include leather upholstery, heated front seats, and DVD entertainment. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.
Industry gossips say Toyota RAV4 will be redesigned for model-year 2006 on a new-generation Corolla platform, but that's all they know right now. Our logic suggests a slightly larger, more upscale vehicle offering big-SUV features like an optional navigation system. We'd also look for the just-adopted 2.4-liter engine to mate with 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions, ousting today's respective 5-speed and 4-speed units.
Available with the most-powerful engine in its class as well as segment-exclusive seating for seven, the redesigned 2006 Toyota RAV4 stands out among compact SUVs. Factor in fine ergonomics and Toyota's reputation for reliability, and it's well worth considering.
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