The Toyota RAV4 compact SUV receives only minor updates for 2010. Primarily, Toyota expands the availability of high-end options packages to more trims for 2010, providing potential buyers with the ability to better customize their vehicles to fit their needs. For instance, the automaker now offers a rear backup camera linked to an electrochromic mirror with a backup camera monitor as an option for the Base trims, and expands the availability of the Sport Appearance package to certain Sport trims. The package adds such features as a unique rear door, a stainless-steel exhaust tip, heated exterior mirrors with turn-signal indicators, and a chrome-accented shift knob with leather inserts.

The RAV4 comes in Base, Sport, and high-end Limited trim levels for 2010. In addition, potential owners can choose a front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive configuration for each trim level, as well as a four-cylinder or six-cylinder powerplant, resulting in a range of 12 trims.

At all three trim levels, the RAV4 comes equipped with either a 2.5-liter, DOHC four-cylinder engine, which produces 179 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine, which generates 269 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines feature VVT-i, or variable valve timing with intelligence, which adjusts the timing on the intake valves to improve engine performance and efficiency. The four-cylinder engines link to a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, while the V6 powerplants mate to a five-speed automatic transmission.

When equipped with front-wheel drive, the RAV4 manages 22/28 mpg with the four-cylinder engine and 19/27 with the V6. For four-wheel-drive trims, fuel economy drops slightly to 21/27 and 19/26, respectively.

All trims feature unitized body construction, with MacPherson struts in the front, double wishbone coil springs in the rear, and power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. As a result, the RAV4 offers car-like handling, with a ride that mimics a compact sedan's. Owners note some body lean in turns and a nose-dive affect under hard braking, although the SUV also delivers precise handling. In addition, owners note some wind and road noise at higher speeds.

Inside, the RAV4 seats five passengers in two rows, although owners can add an optional third row of seats to expand passenger capacity to seven. Both the second and optional third row flip and fold with minimal effort, providing up to 73 cubic feet of cargo space with both rows folded down. The second row also features slide-forward capability, height-adjustable headrests, and a center armrest.

The RAV4 offers a well-laid-out interior with good ergonomics. Standard features across the line include air conditioning, power windows and door locks, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, remote keyless entry, an illuminated entry system, and a center console with illuminated cup holders, a cell phone pocket, and upper and lower storage areas. Cruise control, which also comes standard, has a brake deceleration feature, while the Optitron instrument gauges display amber illumination for ease of viewing. Owners will find 10 cup and bottle holders and three 12-volt power outlets located throughout the cabin. A six-speaker AM/FM audio system with a CD player, an MP3 input jack, and satellite radio capability also comes standard.

The RAV4 Sport adds a number of optional features not available on the Base trim, including a power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade, a touch-screen navigation system with NavTraffic, and a Premium Package, which includes leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Sport trim also rides on a sport-tuned suspension and comes equipped with halogen headlights.

At the top of the line, the RAV4 Limited comes well-equipped with such standard features as dual-zone air conditioning, a leather-wrapped shift knob with metallic inlay, and a Smart Key system with push-button start and remote illuminated entry. Options for the Limited include Split & Stow third-row seats, which fold flat into the floor, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system with a 6-CD changer, XM satellite radio, and Bluetooth.

Toyota offers an optional Tow Prep Package for all RAV4 V6 trims. The package, which enables the RAV4 to tow up to 3,500 pounds, includes an upgraded radiator, fan coupling, and alternator.

All RAV4 trims come equipped with such safety features as Vehicle Stability Control with traction control and four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. The Base and Limited trims ride on 17-inch wheels, while the Sport trim matches its sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels.