Toyota RAV4 (2006 – 2013) Review

Toyota RAV4 (2006 – 2013) At A Glance

3/5

+Bigger and now 5-door only. More luxurious but not as practical as previous RAV-4. Car-like road manners. Petrol and diesel automatics. Facelifted 2010.

-On most models, the tailgate doesn't open wide enough unless you fit a different checkstrap. Tailgate spare wheel abandoned in favour of tyre repair kit. Starting to feel dated.

Insurance Groups are between 22–26
On average it achieves 90% of the official MPG figure

Stepping out of a Yaris and into a RAV4 is bound to give the wrong impression. I always remembered the old RAV4 as the sportiest of all the SUVs. Yet this big new RAV4 D-4D 180 felt more like a Shogun.

Real MPG average for a Toyota RAV4 (2006 – 2013)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

90%

Real MPG

23–53 mpg

MPGs submitted

579

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

Satisfaction Index

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Ask Honest John

How can I improve the performance of my headlights?

"I have a 2007 Toyota RAV4 XT5. The headlight lenses are not yellowed but not as clear as they were. I have tried a cleaning kit and there was minimal improvement. I am particularly interested in increasing the output on dipped beam as I regularly drive along an unlit A road. I believe I can buy replacement bulbs eg from Halfords but am unsure of the claimed improvement. I also do not want to fit anything that might damage the lens/cover through excessive heat. I would value your opinion please."
We would recommend Osram Night Breakers or Phillips RacingVision bulb upgrades, as they offer superior performance in low light conditions. The bulbs are designed and approved for use in the EU and as long as you purchase the right fitment for your vehicle you should experience no issues with excessive heat. If you have had no success with a cleaning kit, you could try this Meguiar's kit https://www.halfords.com/motoring/car-cleaning/clay-bars/meguiars-one-step-headlight-restoration-kit-342649.html - it contains a comprehensive kit of products including components designed for stubborn defects, and although it is a little more expensive it is far cheaper than replacing the headlights completely.
Answered by David Ross

Which small Automatic SUV should I buy for £10,000?

"I have a budget of £10,000 to buy a very reliable, small automatic SUV which will be used for about 40 miles daily commute. This will be mainly for commuting to work and dropping off the kids in school. What do you recommend?"
Your budget will get you a circa 2009 Toyota RAV4 with a 150PS petrol engine and an automatic gearbox. Very reliable cars, don't feel as bulky to drive as other SUVs and have loads of room inside. Find out more in our review: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/toyota/rav4-2006/
Answered by Russell Campbell

What is the best AWD SUV to replace a Toyota RAV4?

"I'm looking to change our 14 year old Toyota RAV4 XT5 soon. I'm wondering whether to go hybrid or stick with diesel again? I live in the countryside and need AWD in the winter, and commute 300 miles regularly so all electric is no good. My budget is around £14,000 so could get either early RAV4 hybrid or 2.0 diesel if sticking with another RAV4 - but what would you suggest?"
As you regularly drive long distances and don't live in a city centre, a diesel SUV sounds ideal. Give some serious consideration into whether you really need a 4x4, though – not only does this limit your choices, it'll also cost you more in running costs. You might be surprised by the difference a set of winter tyres makes on a two-wheel-drive car. A Toyota RAV4 would be a very dependable choice. Also consider a Kia Sportage (look for the later model) or a Peugeot 3008.
Answered by Andrew Brady

What's the best small SUV with an automatic transmission?

"I'm looking to change my current car after the winter for a small SUV. I have back and left knee ligament trouble so an auto box is preferable. I'd be looking at something like a Vauxhall Mokka, Peugeot 2008, Ford Ecosport/Kuga or Volkswagen Tiguan. Budget is £7000."
A Volkswagen Tiguan could be a good option although, unless you cover a lot of miles, we'd recommend a petrol and you'd be looking at an older 2.0-litre TSI 4Motion with your budget. These are rare and could be expensive to run. How about a Suzuki Vitara? They're a bit smaller than a Tiguan and not as plush inside, but they're very reliable. We'd recommend a Toyota RAV4, too.
Answered by Andrew Brady
More Questions

What does a Toyota RAV4 (2006 – 2013) cost?