The Toyota RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle was introduced in the United States for the 1996 model year. This vehicle represents Toyota's continued efforts to channel their energy into improving their vehicles to suit the expressed needs and desires of the American marketplace. The RAV4 was available with two or four doors and designed to provide efficient cargo and passenger space, good visibility and to be agile and fun to drive. The 2.6 liter 4 cylinder engine offered good gas mileage for a vehicle of this class and was available with optional four wheel drive.

In 1997, the RAV4 was the recipient of Consumer Report's 'Best Small SUV' and Automobile Magazine's ' Automobile of the Year ' awards. Changes for the 1998 model year included an optional removable soft top version for the two door models and all models received a new front fascia and interior materials were upgraded. The RAV4L Special Edition model was added in 1999 and included a perforated leather interior and color coordinating body moldings, door handles and mirrors. For the 2000 model year, the two door soft top model was discontinued, as were all two door models-the RAV4 was now only available with four doors.

The RAV4 was completely redesigned for the 2001 model year making it sportier and more versatile as well as roomier. The front end now had a much more athletic appearance and the entire design was more aerodynamic. The engine was now a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder with variable valve timing and was capable of delivering up to 148 horsepower. The 2002 model received some minor cosmetic changes and in 2003 an optional sport package added a bolder grille, tubular roof rack, heated mirrors and an aggressive looking hood scoop. The 2004 RAV4 arrived with a substantial increase in standard safety features including antilock brakes, stability and traction control and front airbags. A new six speaker stereo system and air conditioning were now also standard on all models. Although there were no significant changes for the 2005 model year, the 2006 RAV4's were completely redesigned.

The 2006 RAV4 was now available with a more powerful V6 engine capable of towing up to 3500 lbs. with the optional towing package. The overall size of all models has increased in every dimension, allowing room for an optional third row seat. The changes in size and functionality have kicked the RAV4 into more of a crossover utility vehicle class, yet its quick acceleration and responsive handling are still extraordinary. With so much change for 2006, the 2007 models received only technological updates including steering mounted audio controls and Blue Tooth connectivity. Three trim levels-Base, Sport and the Limited-and twelve combinations of two engine sizes and a choice of either front wheel or four wheel drive make the RAV4 a very flexible and accommodating vehicle for just about any driver.