Toyota RAV4 2005–2012 car dimensions: 4395 mm long, 1815 mm wide and 1685 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,465 kg. Braked towing is 1,588 kg.
Base models have manual air conditioning with rear heater ducts. Limited grades add dual-zone automatic climate control with cabin filter. Cruise control is standard across the range. Optional navigation brings a touchscreen on higher trims. No factory reversing camera, parking sensors, AEB, blind spot warning or lane keep systems. Cabin feels roomy with Optitron gauges, tilt/telescopic wheel, multiple storage spots and power accessories. Live-with daily driving is straightforward. VSC, ABS and available HAC/DAC help on hills but you rely on mirrors for parking.
Behind the second row you get 1015 litres. Fold the 60/40 seats flat for 2074 litres. Optional third row drops that to 338 litres behind it. Underfloor storage appears on five-seat versions. Side-hinged rear door and spare on the hatch make loading a bit awkward but the space itself is useful for family gear or weekly shops.
Four-cylinder models tow 680 kg braked. V6 models manage 907 kg without the tow package and 1588 kg with it. Unbraked limit sits at 750 kg in many markets. Payload is 375 kg without the third row or 525 kg with it. Tow package adds upgraded radiator, fan and alternator for heavier work. Sport grade brings tuned suspension. Good for light trailers, bikes or occasional loads. not a heavy hauler.
The cabin is roomier with more shoulder and leg space than the prior model. Seats feel firm and supportive with modest bolsters. Higher grades add an 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather trim, and heated front seats. A power tilt/slide moonroof is available. Rear seats slide, recline, and fold flat easily, with an optional third row on some versions for extra seating. Illuminated cupholders and multiple storage spots add daily convenience.
Fuel economy competitive for class with 4-cyl or V6 petrol. diesels in some markets.
Oil and filter service every 5,000 miles or 6 months (or annually/10,000 miles by market).
4-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP overall.
IIHS Good in moderate overlap front and side (with side airbags).
NHTSA 5-star driver frontal, 4-star passenger frontal, 5-star side, 4-star rollover.
Standard Star Safety System: VSC, traction control, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, dual-stage front airbags.
Fuel options include a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder or 3.5-litre V6 petrol, with diesels offered in select markets. Economy is solid for a compact SUV of this size and power range.
Servicing follows a regular schedule with oil and filter changes at short intervals plus tire rotations and brake checks. Cabin and engine air filters need replacement at longer intervals. Fluids and components get inspected as mileage builds.
Safety equipment centers on the Star Safety System with stability control, traction control, ABS, EBD, and Brake Assist. Dual-stage front airbags are standard. Side and curtain airbags plus a driver's knee airbag appear as standard or available by market and year. Crash tests rate it well overall for the era.
The RAV4 is straightforward to keep. Stick to the maintenance guide for oil, filters, and inspections to maintain reliability over high miles. Basic warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles with longer powertrain protection.
Length 4395 mm, Width 1815 mm, Height 1685 mm, Wheelbase 2560 mm (RAV4 2005–2012)
Sources: manufacturer data, Toyota UK 2006 RAV4 gen3 media/press pack, 450/1752 l).