Throw a standard 6-cylinder powerplant into Toyota’s entry-level RAV4 to get the 2012 RAV4 Base V6. This 5-passenger midsize crossover sports a pleasant ride, some tolerable moves, ample cabin storage and 73 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Additionally, expect standard 17-inch steel wheels, cloth upholstery and a reclining rear seat to complement remote power door locks, power windows and mirrors, air conditioning, telescoping tilt-wheel steering and cruise control.
Entertainment is via an MP3-capable single-CD player with 6 speakers and a USB port, with Bluetooth hands-free communications technology ably contributing to an informed commute.
Available to the up-powered RAV4 Base V6 are the Value Package, with a roof rack and privacy glass, and the Upgrade Value Package, which throws in alloy wheels, a power moonroof and high-end cloth upholstery. Remote engine start is a standalone option, as are rear-seat entertainment, a third-row seat, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with rear-view camera, various cargo protection and securing items, and various exterior trim upgrades.
Standard power for the 2012 Toyota RAV4 Base V6 is, of course, a 269-hp 3.5-liter variable-valve-timed (VVT) V6 engine that mates with the standard 5-speed automatic transmission for 246 lb-ft of torque. Look for 3,500 pounds of towing capacity from this V6-equipped crossover when the available Tow Prep Package is added, while mileage is estimated at 19 mpg city/27 highway in the front-wheel-drive-only (FWD) configuration.
Safety-wise, the 2012 RAV4 Base V6 boasts Toyota’s Star Safety System with standard 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags and front head restraint whiplash protection. Daytime running lights, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with integrated rear-view camera and a remote antitheft alarm are available safety add-ons.
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