Topping the 2012 Toyota RAV4 lineup is the flagship Limited trim level. This top-shelf 5-passenger midsize crossover flaunts 73 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, a goodly number of standard amenities and 4-cylinder fuel economy, with some surprising ride comfort and agility thrown in, too.
Expect 17-inch alloy wheels to be delivered with this capable crossover, along with a rear spoiler, a roof rack, premium cloth upholstery, reclining rear seats, leather and simulated alloy cabin accents, and a leather steering wheel. Cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering also come standard, as does dual-zone climate control. A trip computer and Bluetooth hands-free communications are complemented by an MP3-capable single-CD player with 6 speakers, as well as a USB connection.
For 2012, the RAV4 Limited is eligible for the Navigation Value Package starring, you guessed it, a hard-drive-based navigation system. Also included are a rear-view camera, satellite radio and a power moonroof, as well as a 6.1-inch dash display that boasts traffic and weather info, as well as smartphone-interfaced internet radio access through Toyota’s Entune system. Additionally, the Premium Package, which can be delivered separately or as part of the navigation package, offers leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Standalone options, meanwhile, include remote engine start, third-row seating, cargo protection and stowage features, stainless steel exhaust tip and body side moldings.
The ubiquitous 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder (I4) powerplant is standard in the 2012 RAV4 Limited. Mated with the standard 4-speed automatic transmission, the four-banger puts out 179 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, barely enough to tow 1,500 pounds, and then only if properly equipped. Variable valve timing, however, means fuel economy in the vicinity of 22 mpg city/28 highway in this front-wheel-drive-only (FWD) ute.
Finally, standard safety features (Toyota’s Star Safety System) include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags and front head-restraint whiplash protection. Front fog/driving lights and turn-signal-integrated mirrors are also standard, while a remote antitheft alarm and daytime running lights are among optional safety items.
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