1999 Toyota RAV4 L 2.0L from North America
Summary:
Reliable, great all time 4x4, 21 MPG average
Faults:
In the 7k miles I have owned it, *knock*, I have had nothing go wrong with it.
Only minor issue was the popular rattle from the dash, only occurs when accelerating up a hill and really pushing the poor little thing. The glove box rattled, but I rigged that up with some padding etc, and it is secured tight when locked into place.
General Comments:
Love the headroom in the front and rear seats. Replaced factory stereo and speakers, much better. Really enjoy the side opening trunk, and just enough room to throw a few things back there. Most of all, the 12V outlet in the back is great idea, and the bags that slide off on the back door, excellent idea. Car just feels reliable vs, 99 Cherokee..don't get me started on that! It is a Toyota, what else do you expect?
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 3rd June, 2004
21st Nov 2005, 11:31
Lmao!! yeah.. how can you even think about comparing a truck to a car?? wow.
9th Apr 2006, 05:11
I drive a 1999 Rav 4 L @ 80-100 miles daily and it is the best vehicle I have ever had. I bought it @ 67000 miles in Sept 2004 and now have @ 125000 miles. Bought a new set of Dunlop Grandtreks and replaced shocks and struts. It is the quietest, best running vehicle I have ever known of. Oh, by the way, maybe it's not a true 4 wheeler, but I do drive @ 60 miles a week on dirt roads, which in my area are not at all plowed in the winter. My ride gets through @ 8-12 inches of snow with NO PROBLEM AT ALL if you drive sensibly and remember that driving a 4 by 4 DOESN'T make you bulletproof in bad weather. Maintained RELIGIOUSLY with regular oil changes at no more than 3500 miles. Toyota's 4 EVERMORE. ( D
21st Oct 2006, 21:37
I have had my S reg jeep for only less than half a year so not fully pushed it as yet.
But from a couple of trips on the motorway, I found it to be really thirsty. I have noticed an improvement since I start using only BP Ultimate fuel though.
I bought this on the advice of my garage, and have not been disapointed at all. Very good standard equipment such as good speakers, air con, alloys, electric sunroof mirrors windows and so on. A very solid car that lives upto the Toyota name.
Dissapointed with the lack of after markets parts like finding a rear shelf to cover whats in the boot or even upgrades for the factory fitted alarm.
As for driving, a very good 2 lites engine, but not the type of vehicle that you would really race, I think I am scared when going round corners I might tip over. Driving position is excellent even for short people like me and parking is the best part of owning this thee door jeep.
In conclusion I would buy another one!
13th Jul 2019, 16:58
RAV4 is not meant to be an off-roader. It's a "soft-roader". It's like comparing a Ford Fiesta to a BMW.
3rd Jun 2004, 13:42
Compared to a 99 Cherokee, the RAV4 is a tin can on wheels. I'd love to see a RAV4 do some serious off roading.
Only in a Jeep.