Yes, the RAV4 has always been a cute compact sport utility vehicle. But in the 2006 model year, the RAV4 nicely matches cute with capable. From a driver’s perspective, the new 3.5-liter V6 (producing 269 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 246 pounds-feet torque at 4700 rpm) is a real go-getter. For shoppers who’d rather have a 4-cylinder, that base engine choice collects 5 additional horsepower – now 166 – on the 2006 model. From a passenger viewpoint, the RAV4’s new dimensions – a gain of more than 14 inches in length and three inches in width – provide plenty of head, shoulder, and legroom. Third row seating is now available on the base and limited versions. The 2006 RAV4 sports a 104.7-inch wheelbase, a stiffer chassis, tighter turning radius, and an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and trailing double wishbone rear suspension. The 2006 RAV4 showcases Toyota’s third-generation interpretation of what can be built upon a passenger car platform. And this evolution of RAV4 is indeed splendid. RAV4 is offered in 2WD as well as a new electronic on-demand 4WD. RAV4’s new design drops the coefficient of drag from 0.35 to 0.33 and that helps minimize wind noise as does the decision to nix using outer molding on the windshield and door glass. The standard equipment list on the V6-powered Limited version is mighty inclusive with appointments like UV reduction glass windshield and rear privacy glass, hill-start assist control/downhill assist control, full-size spare tire, hard-shell spare tire cover, AM/FM CD 6-disc in-dash changer, rear cargo pull-cover, roof rack, 17-inch wheels and cruise control. The 4x4 RAV4 Limited with V6 and five-speed automatic transmission collects per gallon fuel estimates of 21 city and 28 highway. That same vehicle carries a MSRP of $25,870.