
Base price: $17,035; 4wd, $18,435
Vehicle type: front-engine, front- or 4-wheel-drive; 5-door 5-passenger wagon
Interior volume, F/R (cu ft) 53/38
Cargo volume, seats up/maximum (cu ft) 29/68
Wheelbase 98.0 in
Length/width/height 165.1/68.3/64.9–65.3 in
Turning circle 35.4 ft
Curb weight 2700–2950 lb
EPA city/highway mpg 22–25/27–31
Fuel-tank capacity/range 14.7 gal/323–368 mi
Passive restraints driver and passenger airbags
POWERTRAIN
2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-in-line, 148 hp; 5-sp man, 4-sp auto
SUSPENSION
F ind, struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
R ind, unequal-length control arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
F/R vented disc/drum
ABS optional
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TOYOTA RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 pioneered the car-based/unit-body, cute-ute class. Its stylish interior has more room than most mid-size station wagons: 68 cubic feet in the rear. Performance comes from a 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four that’s available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The RAV4 is available with front-wheel drive or a full-time four-wheel-drive system that operates transparently. It’s not a vehicle for rugged off-road use, but it can handle dicey road conditions and is practical, nimble, and very well made. For 2003 there’s a new, optional Sport package that dresses the RAV4 with a hood scoop, unique grille, heated outside mirrors, tubular roof rack, gray bumpers, and S badging. Inside, the Sport package adds air conditioning, cruise control, an upgraded sound system, power windows and door locks, carpeting, cargo mats, and Sport-specific seat fabric.
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