2005 Toyota RAV4

Is the 2005 Toyota RAV4 Right for You?

What Is It & Who Is It For?

The 2005 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV with seating for 5 people. It’s meant for drivers who need something roomier than a sedan, but don’t need a full-size SUV. There’s also a choice of a manual or automatic transmissions.

What Makes It Unique?

It’s unique for offering a manual transmission, which is increasingly hard to find.

RAV4 vs. Other Toyotas

In Toyota’s SUV lineup, the compact RAV4 sits between the Matrix hatchback and the midsize Highlander.

Toyota RAV4 vs. Competition

Compact SUVs are a popular vehicle class. so the RAV4 faces tough competition:

• Ford Escape: Car-like handling.

• Honda CR-V: No off-road capability.

• Mitsubishi Outlander: Noisy ride.

• Jeep Liberty: Stronger off-road capability.

Is the 2005 Model Year Right for You?

Changes for 2005

• New Sport appearance package

2005 Toyota RAV4 vs. Older RAV4s

Toyota introduced an all-new RAV4 for the 2001 model year, refreshed it in 2003, and debuted  a full redesign for 2010. That means any RAV4 model from 2001 to 2009 will look similar and have similar features, so you could save money by choosing from those model years of the RAV4.

You can find used Toyota RAV4s with Carfax’s used car listings. Each used car comes with a free Carfax vehicle history report.

Research the RAV4 from other model years

Which 2005 Toyota RAV4 Trim Is the Best Value?

The original starting prices for each trim, including MSRP and the destination charge:

• Base: $19,050

The RAV4 is available in a single trim with a variety of individual options and options packages.

Find a used Toyota RAV4 Base

The Sport package adds interior and exterior enhancements and is a good choice for those who want a more aggressive look. If it’s amenities you crave, then try the L package.

2005 Toyota RAV4 Performance

Engine Options

The RAV4 has one engine option:

• 161-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD)

Compared with the class? The RAV4’s engine is more powerful than the 140-horsepower engine in the Mitsubishi Outlander, but less powerful than the Ford Escape with 201 horsepower and the Jeep Liberty with 210 horsepower.

Fuel Economy

• FWD: 23 mpg EPA-estimated combined mpg*

• 4WD manual/automatic: 21/22 mpg

*The EPA uses a mixture of highway and city driving for its combined estimate.

Compared with the class? The Toyota RAV4’s fuel economy is average for the class.

2005 Toyota RAV4 Safety Ratings & Features

This generation of the Toyota RAV4 (2003-2009) has excellent crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Key Standard Features

• Vehicle stability and traction control

• Driver and front passenger airbags

• Tire pressure monitoring system

Key Optional Features

• Daytime running lights

2005 Toyota RAV4 Interior

Cabin Storage and Features

• Cupholders: 2 front, 2 rear

• Six-disc in-dash CD changer: Optional

• Cabin storage areas: Glovebox, under center console armrest, center console storage pocket

Compared with the class? Expected for the class.

Cargo Space

• There’s 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats

• There’s 68.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

Compared with the class? The RAV4 has average cargo space for its class.

Seating Space

Compared with the class? TheRAV4 has less seating space than others in its class.

2005 Toyota RAV4 Warranty

• 3 years / 36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. Covers many parts and systems, but does not include consumables such as brakes, tires, wiper blades, shocks or struts.

• 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain. Covers major engine and transmission components.

• All warranties are measured from the date the first owner purchases the car. They are transferable to used car buyers.

Compared with the class? Common for the segment.