2003 Toyota Rav4

 

The 2003 Toyota Rav4 inherits the re-designed and re-engineered body, engine and features of the 2001 and 2002 Rav4. It still maintains the upgraded engine and bolstered interior equipments and features that distinguish the Rav4s beginning from 2001 from previous models. For 2003, Toyota drops in the Sport Package option which features unique trim inside and out, plus popular comfort and convenience features such as air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, six-speaker stereo, and carpeted floor and cargo mats.

 

All Rav4s have four doors, previous two-door models were discontinued, and is available in two models the two-wheel drive and the four-wheel drive. Only one engine is available, the new all-aluminum, 16-valve, DOHC inline four-cylinder with variable valve timing, displacing 2.0 liters and producing 148 horsepower which was first made available in 2001. A five-speed manual is standard; a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission is available for the two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models.

 

The design of the 2003 Rav4 is refreshing, original and sporty. Without the Sport Package, the 2003 Rav4 looks just like the 2002 Rav4. This Options Package allows the owner to customize his Rav4 to suit his taste. Compared to the pre-2001 models, the recent Rav4 is larger in length, width, height, wheelbase and track. Inside the Rav4, there is sufficient leg room and passenger space. The seats are comfortable, especially with the stylish yet soft leather upholstery. The dashboard exhibits a clear view of the instrument and gauge panel. The dash design is not bad either; the instrument panel is striking, trimmed in faux-titanium.

 

By day, the gauges appear metallic off-white, and by night they have an orange glow. The rear seats can be reclines 50/50, but these can easily be removed therefore increasing cargo space of up to 68.3 cubic feet. Another good thing about this mini-SUV is that unlike most humongous SUVs, the low load floor means easier access to passengers and even for cargo hauling.