Car Statistics: Toyota - RAV4 Series 06 (4 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

Handsome but unimaginative - the RAV looks like a slightly bigger version of the previous model.

Handling (4 stars)

Composed and refined, although driver enthusiasm will be limited by the high seating position. Numb steering takes the edge off dynamic appeal.

Comfort (4 stars)

Comfortable and well-insulated, the RAV is an excellent motorway companion. The cabin is spacious and rear occupants benefit from a sliding back seat.

Quality (4 stars)

Toyota wrote the book on quality - and the RAV is no exception. Plasticky rivals could learn plenty from studying its cabin.

Performance (3 stars)

The petrol engine has to be worked too hard to make decent progress - and the range-topping 175 bhp diesel is too expensive considering the performance on offer. More basic 134 bhp D4D diesel is therefore our recommendation.

Roominess (4 stars)

Spacious, well-finished cabin is packed with useful features and cubby holes.

Costs (4 stars)

Diesel engines turn in excellent fuel economy, and servicing costs should be reasonable too.

Value (3 stars)

Pricey range topper knocks the RAV's value for money credentials, but more basic versions offer plenty of kit for the outlay.

Stereo (4 stars)

A powerful amp gives the RAV4 sound system plenty of punch and an optional DVD system is available to keep rear seat passengers happy.