When SUV's first hit the market, they were based on a truck suspension. In 1996, Toyota introduced its Rav4 based on a sedan. The 1997 Toyota Rav4 picks up where its predecessor left off, continuing to provide car comfort and quality while delivering the more commanding view of the road expected by SUV owners.

Reported mileage is 22/26, yet reviewers got anywhere from 25-30 mpg on the highway, depending on panel usage, such as air conditioning. Reviewers were very happy with the comfort of the front seats, though found the bench in back to be a little more lacking.

Problems cited include constant re-alignments and tire rotations, as well as a lack of the rapid acceleration needed for highway passing.