History
The thing about concept cars is that they're just that. `Concepts` of the kind of ideas that automotive designers would like to put into production but are rarely allowed to. You admire the futuristic bodyshells at motorshows or in magazines and wonder what the neighbours would think if one of those actually appeared in your driveway. And that's about as far as it goes.
A few years ago, however, one manufacturer, Toyota, began a revolution by producing `Concept Cars` you could actually buy. The Previa people carrier was one such example, the cheeky compact 4x4 RAV4 another.
First seen as a styling exercise at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1989, the `Recreational Active Vehicle with 4WD` (yes, that's why they called it `RAV4`), re-emerged, still a concept car, at the same event a few years later. After a positive response, the green light was given for production.
It was launched in July 1994 as a three-door only with a single 2.0-litre petrol engine option. In June 1995, a five-door version was added, again, fitted with the same 2.0-litre engine. A plush flagship VX flagship version of this bodystyle was introduced in March 1997.
In January 1998, a revised range was launched, with EX, GX and VX trim levels. The changes were mainly cosmetic inside and out, with new front and rear lamps. However, in February, a new variant, the Soft Top two-door, was added to the range. There were loads of special editions, usually in bright colours and one even including a mountain bike, but don't be tempted to pay very much (if any) extra for dubious cosmetic add-ons.
The second generation RAV4 range arrived in August 2000 with chunkier exterior looks, a sportier interior, more equipment and the choice of 1.8-litre two-wheel-drive three-door models as an alternative to the established two-litre four wheel drive. Toyota introduced new VVTi variable valve timing engines and a D-4D direct-injection diesel in July 2001.
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