Toyota RAV4 1996

Toyota RAV4 LWB

The RAV4 is Toyota's baby four wheel drive. It has independent suspension all round and one wonders how robust those rear radius arms are bouncing over rocks. The engine is transverse mounted - more than a little reminiscent of Toyota's four wheel drive Corolla. Drive to the rear axle goes through a centre differential; the centre diff' lock is automatic on automatic transmission models. Suzuki have been quick to point out that the RAV4 does not have a "proper" 2-speed transfer case while their Vitara does.

Life-Guards at Noosa (right) take up the Babe-Watch (sp?) stance after adopting Toyota RAV4s for beach cruising - Toyota publicity photo.

Toyota RAV4 1996

• HT/ST 2+2 3dr
• transverse 1988cc petrol 4 cyls Efi 4v/cyl dohc
• transmission: 5m/4a full-time 4WD (no hi/lo ratio)
• suspension: indep/indep, brakes: disc/drum
• 27,800 (Aus) (3dr man') ...

• station wagon 5 seats 5 doors
• tranverse 1988cc petrol 4 cyls Efi 4v/cyl dohc
• transmission: 5m or 4a, full-time 4WD (no hi/lo ratio), centre diff' lock: manual with 5m, auto with 4a
• suspension: indep/indep, brakes: disc/drum
• tyres: 215/70R16 (28" oad), fuel-tank: 58L
• 30,000 (Aus) (5m)
• Contemporary competition: Suzuki Vitara

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