The second-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA20) marked a decisive turning point in the history of compact SUVs. Larger, more refined, and more road-oriented than its predecessor (XA10), it shed its 'toy' image to become a versatile family vehicle, available in 3 and 5 doors. It was with this generation that Toyota introduced its common rail diesel engine (D-4D) in Europe, essential to counter emerging competition. Although the RAV4 XA20 benefits from Toyota's reputation for reliability, this reputation needs to be strongly qualified for the diesel engine (1CD-FTV), which bore the brunt of the first generations of high-pressure injection and modern emissions control. A facelift occurred in late 2003, bringing redesigned bumpers, clear headlights, and minor technical improvements.
The Toyota RAV4 XA20 is an excellent compact SUV... provided you choose the right engine. If you're considering the diesel (2.0 D-4D), extreme caution is advised. This engine has concentrated most of the costly failures (flywheel, SCV solenoid valves, turbo). Only buy a D-4D if the service history is clear and these parts have already been replaced. The best choice for peace of mind remains the 2.0 VVT-i petrol with a manual gearbox, which offers reliability worthy of Toyota's reputation, although it is more fuel-intensive.
| Oil change | £70 – 130 |
| Timing chain | £700 – 1 300 |
| Clutch | £800 – 1 500 |
| Complete brakes | £300 – 550 |
| Estimated annual budget | £650 – 1 200 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.