The new for 2004 features of the Toyota RAV4 are enough to make this product considerably different than the previous sport utility vehicle. From a visual check, the RAV4 showcases a redesigned front bumper, headlights, grille, and fog lamps. The interior makeover touches the steering wheel and instrument cluster. Safety changes now make ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution standard fare. A new vehicle stability control system is also part of the package. On the power meter, the vehicle moves from a 2.0-liter, 148 horsepower 4-cylinder to a 2.4-liter 161- horsepower/165 peak torque 4-cylinder engine.

RAV4 is an attractive compilation of base offerings, even more so with the 2004 model year making air conditioning part of the given equipment list. Available in 2WD and 4WD with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission, RAV4 is designed as a thoughtful storage bin on wheels. It’s especially useful to know the vehicle can transform from a passenger mobility unit to a cargo cart by folding the 50/50 split rear seat flat. For users who want something more, the rear seat can be removed and the available cargo space grows to 68.3cubic feet. Fuel economy estimates are 22 city/27 highway. MSRP for the 4WD version is $20,800.