18 May 07
3: Toyota RAV4 (1994-2000; 2000-2006)
The original softroader, the RAV4 was the fun 4x4 to beat in the 1990s, being both way more reliable than a Freelander and much nicer to drive than a Suzuki Vitara. The competition's caught up since then, but the RAV4 remains an excellent choice. It'd be hard to go wrong with one of these, and with so many around there's no need to plump for a dodgy one. You'll find three- and five-door versions, and some three-door soft-tops with removable roof panels.
Don't expect the RAV4 to have heavy-duty pulling power or hardcore off-roading ability, but it's a thoroughly pleasant, comfortable drive on road, and more than capable of light towing and fieldwork with its full-time four-wheel drive. Lends itself well to being dressed up and accessorised, too, if that's your thing.
Road Test: Toyota RAV4 (1994-2000)
Road Test: Toyota RAV4 (2000-2006)
Driven: Toyota RAV4 D-4D
