Date Published: 17th December 2010
Compared to some of its rivals, the RAV4 can at first feel a little unsophisticated. We got testers’ comments about its big, simple controls and chunky buttons – no bad thing, but when combined with some slightly basic dash plastics the effect comes across as being a bit Fisher-Price.
To leave it at that would be grossly unfair, and it’s one reason why we make our testers spend proper time with the vehicles rather than just taking them round the block (it happens). The result? Every single one of them admitted to changing their opinion after a bit of time behind the wheel.
Singled out for praise here were a supportive driver’s seat and useful stowage areas including a twin glovebox and slots in the centre console. Those big buttons and dials on the dash might not look pretty, but they too got lots of thumbs-ups for their stout quality, and the packaging anoraks in our number liked the storage spaces hidden beneath lift-out sections in the rear floor.
The one-shot folding rear seats work well, too, and when they’re up they slide back to let the RAV4 carry four big adults in decent comfort. Aside from a side-hinged tailgate, it’s almost all good.
Next - To Drive Jump: 1. To Live With 2. To Drive 3. Verdict
