2006 Toyota RAV 4 Preview

Toyota created the crossover SUV phenomenon a decade ago, when it introduced the 1996 RAV4 to the public. One of the first car-based sport-utilities to hit the U.S., the first RAV4’s appeal was widespread. Now, ten years later, that appeal has waned. Left behind by bigger, more powerful, purpose-built SUVs, the RAV4 is an also-ran due to its small size and cute design. For 2006, Toyota is trying to bring the RAV4 back into the spotlight. The new third-generation version arrives later this year and is built on an all-new platform that makes the new RAV4 longer and wider, inside and out. Along with more muscular styling, Toyota has bumped up the RAV4’s power as well. Can Toyota change the perception the public has of the RAV4 by making it bigger and more powerful, or is the RAV4 destined to toil in anonymity? We think the RAV4 has a shot at ditching its chick-truck image in favor of the kind of widespread acceptance assigned to the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V. For 2006, Toyota is hoping to bring the RAV4 back to the forefront with new muscular styling, more power, and a larger interior and exterior.

What is it

The new 2006 Toyota RAV4 is aimed squarely at young people who need the utility of an SUV but want something more economical. This third-generation RAV4 is 14 inches longer than the previous model, and the optional third-row seating allows a young family to grow without an immediate requirement to upgrade into a larger vehicle. That extra 14 inches also translates into additional interior hauling capacity with the seats folded down, and the cargo area contains multiple underfloor storage compartments when buyers skip the third-row seating option. From a practical standpoint, the RAV4 is much improved.

Why it matters

Until the recent fuel crisis, Americans were consumed with the idea that bigger and more powerful is better. By redesigning the 2006 Toyota RAV4 to offer power and capacity close to that of the Toyota Highlander SUV, Toyota aimed to serve that mindset. But now the company sells two SUVs that are nearly the same size, which means the next Highlander is likely to grow larger as well.

How quick it is

The 2006 Toyota RAV4 is offered with two powertrains. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing 166 horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque. Optionally available is a new 3.5-liter V6 delivering 268 horsepower and 246 lb.-ft. of torque. Both 2WD and 4WD will be available, and the four-cylinder versions get a four-speed automatic transmission while the V6-equipped RAV4s get a five-speed automatic.

What it looks like

Toyota purposely gave the new 2006 RAV4 a wider stance and more power in order to reposition it among today’s increasingly large SUVs. Gone is the cute, toy-like styling of the original and current RAV4s. This third-generation model is built on an all-new platform producing a significant increase in exterior and interior dimensions. Toyota has also given the RAV4 a more muscular and rugged appearance to better appeal to male buyers. Inside, the new RAV4 offers more passenger room as well as increased cargo capacity and an optional third-row seat.

What it does best

The Toyota RAV4 has always been a good alternative to a larger SUV, making it a logical choice for people needing less hauling capacity in a more economical vehicle. The all-new 2006 Toyota RAV4 continues to offer the versatility of the original, but with increased size and space while maintaining its economical nature with the standard 166-horsepower, four-cylinder motor. In addition, the 2006 Toyota RAV4 comes equipped with the automaker’s Star Safety System of stability control, traction control, and ABS with EBD and brake assist, further enhancing its appeal.

What we think

All things considered, the third-generation 2006 Toyota RAV4 should be a hit with its target audience. Updated styling, additional room, and the option for more power make the new 2006 RAV4 a serious contender. Based on our first look at this entry-level SUV, we would have to recommend the new RAV4 to buyers seeking a useful utility vehicle.

Photos courtesy of Toyota