The third-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA30) marked a significant shift for the model, transitioning from a rugged compact off-roader to a more refined, family-oriented mid-size SUV. Toyota dropped the 3-door variant entirely, offering only a 5-door body style (with a Long Wheelbase 'LWB' version available in North America and Australasia). Built on an all-new platform, it introduced electric power steering and a more sophisticated AWD system (Active Torque Control). While petrol variants maintained Toyota's legendary reliability, the European market heavily favored the new 2.2-liter 'AD' series diesel engines (D-4D and D-CAT). Unfortunately, these early diesels suffered from severe design flaws, making the XA30 one of the few Toyotas from this era requiring extreme caution on the used market.
The third-generation Toyota RAV4 is a tale of two extremes. If you are buying a petrol model (especially the 2.0 Valvematic, 2.5L, or 3.5L V6), it is an outstanding, highly reliable family SUV that earns a solid 'BUY' recommendation. However, if you are looking at the European diesel models (2.2 D-4D or D-CAT), extreme caution is required. Pre-2009 diesels are a massive financial risk due to inherent block and head gasket flaws. If you must buy a diesel, only consider a post-2010 facelift model with full service history, and ensure your driving profile includes regular long highway trips to keep the DPF and EGR clean. For most buyers, a petrol RAV4 or a diesel Honda CR-V is a much safer investment.