2010 Toyota RAV4 Overview Change Vehicle

This 2010 Toyota RAV4 overview explains changes for the model year, provides a summary of the 2010 RAV4, and includes Toyota RAV4 safety, reliability, and fuel economy ratings.

If you’ve been a fan of the Toyota RAV4 over the past couple of years, you’ll be pleased to learn that you can still choose between front- and four-wheel drive capability, a four- or six-cylinder engine, and five- or seven-passenger seating capacity. For 2010, Toyota fiddles little with the formula, making the RAV4’s Sport Appearance Package available on front-drive models, adding Bluetooth connectivity to the Sport’s JBL sound system, and offering Base model buyers a backup camera that’s built into the interior rearview mirror.

Shoppers considering the purchase of a 2010 Toyota RAV4 can select between popular, performance-oriented, and luxury-themed versions. Those interested in pursuing the most affordable route will want to focus on the popular RAV4 Base, which isn’t so basic thanks to amenities like power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power side mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control, a single-disc CD player, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and an audio input jack for the stereo. For 2010, Toyota has added a rearview camera to the options list.

For a more performance-oriented RAV4, check out the appropriately named Sport. It’s no Ferrari, but this version of Toyota’s small crossover does come packed with special suspension tuning. And it looks the part with smoked headlights, 18-inch alloys, a rear spoiler, and its own interior trim, including optional charcoal-colored leather. Among the Sport model’s options are a JBL audio system with steering wheel controls and integrated Bluetooth connectivity, a power moonroof, and a navigation system with a backup camera. Toyota also offers a Sport Appearance Package, formerly available only on four-wheel-drive models but now offered on front-drive RAV4s, as well. It includes run-flat tires, unique interior trim, a better sound system, and other upgrades. Our favorite thing about this package is that it removed the spare tire from the RAV4’s tailgate for a cleaner look.

That leaves the most upscale RAV4 variant, officially referred to as the Limited. Behind the badge are amenities such as an automatic climate control system, a power driver’s seat, mirrors with built-in turn signals, and an automatic entry system. Like the Sport, the RAV4 Limited can be upgraded with additional features, such as a navigation system, a power moonroof, heated front seats, and leather upholstery.

Under the hood of every 2010 Toyota RAV4 you’ll find either a four- or six-cylinder engine, the former mated to a four-speed automatic transmission and the latter paired up with a five-speed automatic.

The base engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, delivers 179 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque coupled with decent fuel economy. When charged with moving a front-wheel-drive RAV4, that equates to 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Four-wheel-drive models suffer just a bit in the fuel economy department, registering 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Interestingly, you’ll get similar efficiency from the 3.5-liter V6, despite its ratings of 269 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. In this case, front-drivers earn an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, with four-wheel-drive variants differing only with a 26-mpg highway rating.

If the RAV4 can be counted on for anything, it’s protection in a collision. The 2010 Toyota RAV4 continues to earn top crashworthiness ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The compact crossover SUV’s least impressive showing is an Acceptable rating from the IIHS for roof crush strength. Part of the credit is due to the crossover’s robust structure, and much is thanks to standard equipment like six airbags and front active headrests. The list goes on with stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, and more.

Reliability is expected to be nearly as impressive as the RAV4’s safety scores. J.D. Power and Associates thinks the RAV4 will return average dependability over time, but Consumer Reports is much more optimistic, suggesting that owners will enjoy above-average dependability with the four-cylinder model and excellent dependability with the V6 model.

Vehix recommends the 2010 Toyota RAV4 because it has proven over many years to provide safe, dependable, fuel-efficient transportation, is actually fun to drive, and offers weather-beating 4WD without much of a gas mileage penalty. Among small crossovers, the 2010 Toyota RAV4 is a strong contender.

By Thom Blackett