Toyota Rav4

Rav4 stands for: Recreational Activities Vehicle 4x4(although models do not come with 4x4) A Mini SUV from 1996-2005, and a compact crossover from 2006-present. It was first introduced in 1996, and lead the way for more compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V.The first generation was a small 2 door and 4 door SUV powered by a 2.0 liter inline 4 cylinder making 130 horse power.It ended in 2000. The second generation was bigger and revised.It was still powered by an inline 4 cylinder, making 160 horse power with a 2.4 liter.It still had an available 2 door style(not available in North America). The 3rd generation dropped the mini SUV style, and 2 door model for a more mature look. It was now considered a compact crossover. It was available with a 3rd row for the first time, and a V6 engine. The Rav4 was available in short wheel based form in other countries (not North America). It's powered by a 2.4 liter inline 4 cylinder making 166 horse power, and in 2009 it was increased to 179 horse power. An optional 3.5 liter V6 makes 269 horse power. Manual transmission is offered on all 3 generations (3rd Generation manual not available in North America).