2004 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that helped define the segment when it arrived in the US for 1996, pairing car-like unibody construction and handling with available all-wheel drive and a practical hatchback body. Over three decades it has grown from a small two- and four-door runabout into a five-seat family crossover, and in recent years it has ranked among the best-selling SUVs in the United States.

Shoppers are drawn to the RAV4 for its reputation for reliability, strong resale value, and broad lineup that spans budget-friendly base trims, off-road-flavored variants, and efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, and Subaru Forester, and appeals to commuters, small families, and buyers who want a practical daily driver with light-adventure capability.

The 2004 model: The 2001 redesign brought a larger, more refined four-door-only body with rounder styling and improved interior space. It launched with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and a larger 2.4-liter engine with more power arrived for the 2004 model year alongside a styling refresh. The formula stayed the same: car-like driving manners, available all-wheel drive, and practical hatchback utility.