2011 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 was one of the first crossover SUVs to hit the market when it debuted in the U.S. in 1996. The combination of a comfortable interior, superior handling, and improved fuel economy of a smaller car proved to be a success, and paved the way for crossovers to come. Despite the competition, the RAV4 is still a top choice among midsize crossover SUVs today, and the 2011 RAV4 represents the pinnacle of the series. The 2011 comes with an overhauled brake system and new options like a six-disc CD changer, wheel-mounted radio controls, power moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. If you’re in the market for a midsize crossover, you owe it to yourself to check out the RAV4.

The 2011 Toyota RAV4 is available in three different trim packages—basic, Sport, and Limited. Within each package, you have a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive. All three packages are also available with both a 4-cylinder engine or an upgraded V6. The 4-cylinder package consists of a 4-speed automatic transmission paired with a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine capable of 179 horsepower. The 4-cylinder delivers a fuel economy of 22 city / 28 highway miles in the front-wheel drive model, and 21 city / 27 highway in the all-wheel drive model. The V6 upgrade supplies more power, with its 5-speed automatic transmission paired to a 3.5 liter engine that puts out 269 horsepower. Even with the extra juice, the V6 still achieves a very reasonable fuel economy: 19 city / 27 highway miles per gallon for the front-wheel drive variety and 19 city / 26 highway for the all-wheel drive model. The RAV4 V6 is capable of towing as much as 3,500 pounds when equipped with the optional tow package.

In its basic trim, the RAV4 features cruise control, full power accessories, six-channel audio and 16-inch steel wheels (17-inch for the V6 AWD). The next model up, the RAV4 Sport, adds 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels and improved suspension tuning for a sportier ride. Options include heated mirrors, automatic headlights, and chrome detailing on the exterior. While the Sport evokes the performance of a sports car, the RAV4 Limited trim focuses on offering the driver the luxury-car experience.

The Limited comes standard with many optional features on the Sport and basic, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, high quality audio six-disc audio system, and satellite radio. The Limited also features 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels. Options available on all models include a rear-view camera for backing up, a third-row seat for towing extra passengers, and interior upgrades like nine-speaker audio and touch-based navigation.

The 2011 RAV4 offers an excellent combination of power, interior space, and functionality. If you're looking for a reliable cargo vehicle that can transport a large family or haul a lot of stuff while getting great gas mileage, consider the 2011 Toyota RAV4.