2008 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 enhances interior and safety enhancements for 2008. All models now feature driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and first- and second-row side-curtain airbags with roll-over sensor as standard equipment.

The RAV4 is offered in three distinct grades -- Standard, the performance-oriented Sport and the top-of-the-line Limited -- and with a choice between two engines and either two- or four-wheel-drive.

All grades offer an optional engine choice of the uplevel 269-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Equipped exclusively with a gated-shift five-speed automatic transmission, the V-6 RAV4 models are said to offer fuel efficiency comparable with much less powerful four- and six-cylinder competitors from other automakes.

Four-wheel independent suspension gives the RAV4 agile, sporty handling and a comfortable car-like ride. The McPherson strut front suspension and the trailing double-wishbone rear suspension were redesigned last year. Diagonally positioned shock absorbers allow a larger and lower rear cargo deck.

The Toyota RAV4 employs an advanced Electronic Power Steering system rather than a traditional engine-driven hydraulic system. This compact unit contributes to fuel economy by eliminating the traditional power steering pump and by providing computer-controlled assist only when required.