2005 Toyota RAV4 New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Toyota RAV4?
After receiving a significant freshening last year, the Toyota RAV4 gets a few enhancements to the optional Sport package for 2005: a new mesh grille, silver sport pedals and available fog lamps. All RAV4 models receive Toyota's Star Safety system that includes vehicle stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.

Advantages of the 2005 Toyota RAV4:

• Excellent paved road drivability
• Drives like a rally car on well-worn dirt roads
• Typically tight Toyota build quality
• Reputation for reliability
• Polished interior materials
• Compact size is perfect for crowded urban parking lots
• Impressive cargo space
• Standard stability control
• Optional side-curtain airbags

Objections to the 2005 Toyota RAV4:

• No V6 option
• No low-range transfer case

Editor's Advice:
Tight, nimble and agile, the 2005 Toyota RAV4 makes perfect sense for urbanites who enjoy a high seating position, more cargo capacity than a sedan has to offer, and all-weather all-wheel drive, but have no patience for bulky, clumsy trucks. The RAV4's compact dimensions and economical powertrain allows you to leave as small a footprint as possible, both spatially and environmentally. With a host of weatherproof amenities and chock full of creature comforts, the Toyota RAV4 is a smart choice for hauling mountain biking and camping gear as well as for taking a spin around town.