When my husband and I were considering buying a small sport utility vehicle, the RAV4 was the last on my list. The older models looked strange to me. We found a used 1999 RAV4 L with 35,000 miles on it at our local Toyota dealer and took it for a spin. The style of the RAV4 has changed for the better (it doesn't look like a sandbox toy) it looks pretty cool! (Ours is black on top and bottom). We got a good deal (even used SUVs are pretty pricey) so we bought it. We haven't regretted our decision at all. We really like our RAV4.

We have been very happy with our purchase. The RAV4 is big enough to fit in all parking spaces and you sit high enough to have that SUV feeling of power. It is also big enough inside to carry larger loads and when the back seats are tipped forward, you can fit a great deal of cargo in the back. The controls are easy to understand and use.

Driving the RAV4 is smooth and feels safe. Braking is very responsive and it accelerates well.

The back seat is a little cramped if the front seats are positioned for longer legs, definately better for kids than adults. Our RAV4 has a little buzzing noise from the underneath when accelerating quickly (I think it is noise from the drive train). I don't know if other RAV4s do this, but it would be something good to check during the test drive. Other than this, the car is extremely quiet on the road.

I think the RAV4 is for people who want a SUV, but know they aren't going to be doing real off-roading. If you like the idea of seeing what's going on in front of all the other SUVs, but aren't willing to shell out huge bucks, the RAV4 is the way to go.