The least powerful RAV4 has both a 176bhp 2.5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor, giving a total system output of 215bhp that offers brisk performance with a 0-62mph time of 8.4sec, but we prefer the four-wheel drive version because of its far better towing performance.


2.5 VVT-i Hybrid

Toyota is a company undergoing a quiet revolution, as it works hard to replace its sensible but somewhat bland reputation with one for being a bit more daring, in areas such as the styling of its cars and its enthusiastic leadership of cutting-edge technology, such as hybrid systems.

That process seems to be working for buyers, with the hugely popular and striking-looking C-HR SUV in particular attracting a great deal of interest. The latest version of the hybrid Prius is also rated highly by What Car?; it’s the first Prius to go on sale that our testers have felt can truly compete all round with existing petrol or diesel rivals.

However, it’s worth noting that this period of transition is also a work in progress, and that many of the firm’s cars are still rated as being no more than average among class rivals by our testers.

TOYOTA

RAV4

Excel trim is well-equipped but getting a little pricey. It has 18in alloy wheels, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, leather seats, electrically adjustable and heated front seats with adjustable lumbar support and a heated steering wheel. It's only available with the standard hybrid.

Excel

2.5 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVT [Pan Roof] 2WD

Version review

Toyota RAV4 2.5 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVT [Pan Roof] 2WD Review

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Seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters

Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert

Power height-adjustable sliding reclining and lumbar support for driver seat

Lane departure alert with steering control

Power height-adjustable sliding and reclining for front passenger seat

Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has an impressive all-electric range and low emissions, but the extremely high list price limits its appeal for private buyers and company car buyers alike. The regular front-wheel drive RAV4 hybrid is the sweet spot in the range. It’s fairly ordinary to drive, but strong resale values, astounding economy and a fantastic reliability record make it a tempting option in the large SUV category.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Comfortable ride </li> <li>Feature-filled infotainment </li> <li>Space for child seats </li> <li>Robust build quality </li> <li>Practical storage spaces </li> <li>A boot fit for a family holiday </li> <li>Fuel-efficient engines</li></ul>

While we define a small SUV&nbsp;as something&nbsp;less than 4.3 metres long and a large SUV as measuring more than 4.5 metres, family SUVs tread the middle ground.

As the name suggests, the vast majority are&nbsp;designed for family duties rather than serious off-roading, so practicality is paramount. However, that&nbsp;shouldn't come at the expense of a decent drive; the best examples combine tidy handling with smooth engines&nbsp;and a ride that's comfortable&nbsp;enough to ensure the kids aren't left feeling queasy.

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Toyota RAV4 2.5 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVT [Pan Roof] 2WD Review

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