Once upon a time, compact Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) were the preferred transportation of choice by spinsters and hairdressers.  These vehicles were slow, unsexy and frankly, a disappointment to drive.  All of that changed in 1996 when Toyota unveiled the RAV4.  Since then, compact SUVs changed from mere styling statements to a mainstream part of car-dom—a fact that’s accentuated by their presence in both school parking lots and posh country clubs.  Soon, other car makers followed; and now, there are more than 8 compact SUVs eyeing market leadership, making this one of the most competitive market segment in the Philippines.  Realizing the increasing public interest and picky customer tastes, Toyota upgraded the RAV4 in 2003 focusing on sporty characteristics and sleek design.  Three years onward, an all-new RAV4 moves forward with a blend of attitude, design and handling packaged into one great compact SUV.

From the outside, it’s clear that the all-new 3^rd generation RAV4 takes it styling cues from its immediate predecessor.  A passing glance reveals that Toyota used the same basic silhouette and just smoothened it out, maintaining the hunched down and muscular profile which are its distinctive styling elements.  The front headlight is aggressively raked with projector-type reflectors for the low-beam cluster.  The fog lamp has been recessed further into the rear bumper giving the impression of an animal that’s about to pounce.  Hunkered into the wheel arches are 6-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels (largest in its class).  The exterior mirrors have been enlarged and contain heaters for better visibility.  Adding even more distinction is the Light Emitting Diode (LED) tail lamps and standard rear spoiler with high-mount stoplight.   

The new RAV4 looks as ravish and sporty as before, but it’s now larger and roomier as well.  The dimensions have grown giving the RAV4 a more comfortable cabin with space for five and their luggage.  The dashboard features a two-tier “wing” design that frees up front leg room.  The two-tone black/gray color splits the dash with the 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3 on top and the dual-zone climate control at the bottom.  The gauges feature Optitron lighting for better legibility and the small-diameter steering wheel has built-in audio controls and tilt/telescopic adjustment.  The door trims are given a touch of avant-garde with its boomerang-shaped handles and illuminated switches.  All five passengers are treated to their own separate headrests and 3-point ELR seatbelts.  Heated leather seats (with a 10-way powered adjust on the driver’s side) are standard on the 4WD model.  Improving on the versatility further, the new RAV4 features a 60/40 split-fold-sliding rear bench with a one-touch fold lever from the cargo hold.  In addition, there’s a sizeable deck floor storage box as well as a cargo net and cover.

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