For 2004, the Toyota RAV4 features a more robust engine, exterior and interior updates, and more standard equipment. The previous 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder has been supplanted by a 2.4-liter that makes 161 hp. The suspension and steering have been retuned accordingly. The front and rear ends both have a new look, and inside, cosmetic changes include a redesigned steering wheel, instrument panel, and center dash. Anti-lock brakes with brake assist are now standard, as are air conditioning, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, and power windows, door locks, and mirrors. The RAV4′s interior has more room than most mid-size station wagons: 68.3 cubic feet in the rear. The original cute-ute is available with front-wheel drive or a full-time four-wheel-drive system that operates transparently. The RAV4 is nimble, practical, good looking, and well made.
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