Ride and Handling
The Rav4 rides a touch on the stiff side- though I'm happy to report that the steering feel is good, and the handling is more inspiring than is typical of such a machine. It's quiet, communicative and has a well-planted stance. Brakes are precise and easy to modulate, which is valuable on the road and off.

Enough space for the whole gang and their gears.

The Verdict?
Through a week of unkind winter conditions, there was little else I could ask for in a machine- room for the family and their things, great traction, plenty of room, a comfortable ride and reasonable fuel mileage. As far as a practical, powerful, capable and comfortable Ute goes, Toyota's pretty much hit the nail on the head.


Plenty of room
Quiet, comfortable ride
Decent V6 economy with lots of power if needed
Heats up quickly in the cold
Excellent traction

Interior feels cheap in some areas
Sometimes lazy transmission



ESP cannot be switched off- and it BEEPS!


Photo Credit : Justin Pritchard