The RAV4 will be mentioned twice on this list because we can’t not include the OG Recreational Activity Vehicle, which was groundbreaking in many ways. It arguably created the compact SUV segment and was one of the first electric vehicles available to the masses. Toyota is often accused of being late to the EV party, but it got there in 1997.
The reason the XA10 RAV4 makes this list is its off-road ability. Earlier, we stated that all-wheel-drive shouldn’t be used for hardcore off-roading, but the first-generation RAV4 is the exception that proves the rule. It was equipped as standard with a full-time all-wheel-drive system. Automatic models had an electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch locking center differential, while manual models had a manually-locking center differential with a button on the center console.
It’s a rather rudimentary system without any fancy sport, normal, or snow modes, and no systems monitoring road conditions. But the three-door model was extraordinarily light and had short overhangs.
Like the Suzuki Jimny, we’ve seen the first-generation RAV4 humble many hardcore (heavy) off-roaders.
It also had enough convenience features to make daily driving a joy. Oh, and the value for money was off the charts.
