D R I V E N

Niche market vehicles are usually developed as an afterthought.  Sure, manufacturers have to develop a new shell and body panels, but essentially, the basic frame and the engine were all sourced from existing parts. The story is no different when the cute-as-button mini-SUVs began to invade the market.  The Toyota RAV4 for instance used a modified Corolla chassis and was powered by a Corona engine.  On the other hand, the Honda CR-V was based on the Civic chassis and engine. 

When these mini-SUVs began to sell like hotcakes, companies considered them a mainstay in their line-up.  Even the Europeans and Americans came into the picture: Land Rover, for instance, came up with the equally impressive (but poorly built) Freelander and Ford came up with the Escape (co-developed with Mazda’s Tribute). 

Realizing this, the Japanese had to rethink their strategies.  Since Toyota was the first to release their RAV4 in 1997, they logically had to be the first to introduce a replacement.  Part of Toyota’s ‘revolution of change’ in the Philippines, the 2001 RAV4 is radically different from its predecessor.  Launched as a Completely Built Up unit, the RAV4 is now assembled in Japan…this will very well address the concerns of build quality for those afflicted with colonial mentality.

Surprising fact is that the RAV4 that made its way in the Philippines is the Scandinavian-spec RAV4.  Based on the manual, this is the same vehicle that either Mika Hakkinen or A-Ha are currently driving.

Exhibiting a more manly exterior, the new RAV4 completely departs from the cutesy image.  It follows the lines of the much bigger Toyota Harrier, aka Lexus RX300: the sloping roof rear roof line and the sharp-edged creases are evidence of their similarity.  This new RAV4 also gains a more angular design than the previous generation's.

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