2012 Toyota RAV4

2012 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is offered in three distinct grades – RAV4, Sport and top-of-the-line Limited – and with a choice between the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a powerful V6. Each engine can be teamed with either front-wheel drive or electronic on-demand four-wheel-drive. The roomy RAV4 offers optional third-row seating on RAV4 and Limited grade models.

2012 Toyota RAV4

The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 RPM. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. Integrated twin balance shafts reduce noise and vibration. The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) switches the intake tract length in two stages, based on RPM and throttle angle, to ensure strong torque across the engine speed range.

The four-cylinder engine is partnered with a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. This powertrain returns EPA fuel economy estimates of 22 city/28 MPG highway on FWD models and 21 city/27 MPG highway on 4WD models. An uphill/downhill shift control significantly reduces “hunting” between third and fourth gears during winding uphill driving. Braking on the downhill automatically causes a downshift, which enhances engine braking for better control. A flex lock-up torque converter continuously controls lock-up switch slippage to enhance fuel economy.

The available 3.5-liter V6 engine generates 269 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 246 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 RPM. The V6 is also equipped with dual VVT-i to maximize performance and efficiency while reducing emissions. The V6 is equipped exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission. With the V6, a RAV4 can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in under seven seconds. The V6 models estimated EPA fuel economy MPG ratings of 19 city/27 highway for FWD models and 19 city/26 highway for 4WD models are excellent for this level of performance. All RAV4 models meet Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II) certification.

The RAV4 grade model rides on P215/70 R16 tires with 16-inch steel wheels or available P225/65 R17 tires with styled steel or five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. The Sport grade enhances driving performance with its standard 18-inch alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. The Limited grade rides on P215/65/R17 tires with standard six-spoke aluminum alloy wheels.