In that league the RAV4 is a worthy competitor, tightly built and a good, but not exceptional, performer. Handling is the truck's forte. With a small turning radius, the RAV4 is easy to slip into parking spaces and maneuver around potholes. It has the high-riding sporty feel that younger buyers seem especially fond of. Naturally the truck is a wee bit top-heavy, but that's easily controlled, and the truck's steering wheel delivers fine feedback.
Acceleration is good for a four-banger.
Toyota has designed a new aluminum 2.0-liter four with variable valve timing. It delivers 148 horsepower and 142 foot pounds of torque, up 21 horses and 10 foot pounds from the previous RAV4. The increase gives the Toyota slightly more oomph than its Honda competitor, but the Cherokee and Tracker each offer six-cylinder engines with more pony power. However, after just having driven the Tracker, I can say RAV4 seems a little peppier off the line, which isn't saying much. RAV4 is about 40 pounds lighter than Tracker, which is almost precisely what Toyota saved in engine weight with its new power plant.