A TOYOTA TEST DRIVE: RAV 4
06/17/2008 Finally, a Toyota test-drive at last — hopefully starting with a Toyota Rav 4 four wheel drive. Bigger and looking much better than its predecessor, the Toyota Rav 4 has an overall length of 4,600 mm, width of 1,855 mm and height of 1,720 mm. It has a color keyed bumper, overfender, door outside handle and outside rear view mirror. Its sporty, honeycomb type front grille is a great background for the distinct Toyota emblem. The exterior design is highlighted by projector type headlamps, fog lamps, roof rail, rear spoiler, rear window defogger and spare tire carrier with back door and cover. The overall look is completed by 7JJx17” alloy wheels with 225/65 R17 tires. The first thing I did when I entered the vehicle was to familiarize myself with the dashboard layout and control switches. When I started the vehicle and switched on the lights, I found the panel light glow of the LCD or liquid crystal display so clear in white and amber. The same light is seen for the air-conditioning switches, foot lamps and lower center dash. When the stereo CD in dash is switched on, green illuminated light is visible. Inside the vehicle with the doors shut, the sound proofing inside the cabin works well since sounds from outside are not heard much. The gray natural leather of the interior smells good and is comfortable to sit on. Even on a hot day, the dual zone air-conditioning is able to keep the cabin pleasantly cool. On evening drives the density of the headlamps and fog lamps is a big help for the driver. Loading the trunk is made easy with the large opening of the tailgate although when closing the spare tire cover, a rattling sound is heard. When opened, the side doors allow the occupants to enter and leave easily — especially advantageous for senior citizens and big people. Other convenient amenities include front seat back pockets, key remind and illuminated key entry system, map lamp, digital clock center console box, cup holder, sun visor, 3-spoke leather steering wheel and column with tilt/telescopic/audio switch features and much more. Even with more than 37,000 kilometers on the odometer, this Toyota Rav 4 performed well and still felt solid to drive. The 2AZ-FE 2.4 DOHC inline 4 16 valve VVT-I engine with 170 hp/6000rpm maximum output and 224nm/4000rpm maximum torque matched with 4 speed automatic transmission with super ECT can effectively and speedily bring you to your destination. The all wheel drive keeps the Rav4 on the ground even on the tightest turn. The Rav 4 also features front MacPherson strut suspensions and rear trailing type double wishbone suspension, as well as rack and pinion with power assist steering Stopping the vehicle at high speeds is possible with front and rear disc brakes with ABS and EBD. With such features, specifications, reputation and performance, no wonder Toyota owners are satisfied with their vehicles.  Back to top
For comments about this website:Webmaster@tribune.net.ph
The Daily Tribune © 2006
| |
