What is it?
2001 Toyota RAV4
What's special about it?
Toyota's smallest SUV gets a makeover for the 21st century. The new RAV4 is bigger and heavier than the previous RAV4, though not by much. Both passenger space and cargo room are up, with much of the gain coming from a larger wheelbase. The styling is more rounded and powerful, with larger headlights, a larger grille, and wider fender flares. In Europe, both three-door and five-door models will be offered, along with either front-wheel or four-wheel drive. Two different engines are offered in Europe (a 1.8-liter or a 2.0-liter four cylinder), and a GPS navigation system is optional.
Why should you care?
The Toyota RAV4 was one of the first "cute utes" sold in America. It has consistently offered excellent reliability and road manners in an affordable package. The 2001 RAV4 should continue to do the same. Details weren't available concerning the RAV4's American arrival date, but we guess it will be sometime in 2000. Don't be surprised if only the five-door model is offered.
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