Overview

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact four-door SUV which has been on sale in North America since 1996. The 2011 model is in its third-generation and was last redesigned for the 2006 model year. In 2009, the RAV4 received a mid-cycle refresh, with a new engine and updated cosmetics. The 2011 model is essentially a carryover from last year.

Toyota's RAV4 is offered in three different trim levels. The standard model is simply called the Base. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, cloth upholstery with 6-way adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, remote keyless entry, and 16-inch wheels. The Sport model is upgraded with fog lamps, cosmetic enhancements, sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more. The range-topping Limited model features equipment such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Under the hood is a standard 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine rated at 179 horsepower. However, Toyota also offers a 3.5-liter V6 with 269 horsepower, on all trim levels. The standard powertrain is front-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is also offered. The EPA rates the 2011 Toyota RAV4 fuel economy between 19 mpg city, and 28 mpg highway, depending on engine and driveline.

The 2011 Toyota RAV4 2WD 4-cylinder starts with a base price of about $22,500 and tops out with the Limited 4WD V6 model, which starts around $29,000.