One unique feature about this D-4D engine is the variable nozzle turbocharger, this allows the turbo to adjust how much air is allowed to enter the turbo and thus produces an extra 5bhp over the old D-4D engine and delivers a constant torque of 250Nm between 1800rpm and 3000rpm.

Maximum power of 114bhp (85kW) occurs at 4000rpm. Not to mention it creates a satisfying turbo whine once you reach the turbo band!

Something you do not get with the 2dr RAV4 is a boot. With the rear seats pushed all the way back (the 2 independent rear seats adjust forward and back and also incline) there is pretty much no usable boot space whatsoever. This renders the SWB 2 door version of the RAV 4 unsuitable to families of more than 2 unless you're going to use the RAV as a second family car. For me it's ideal as I rarely have more than 2 people in the car at any 1 time. If I do need any boot space for anything significant it's not a problem because the rear 2 seats fold forward and lock into place, and if necessary can be completely removed with the simple push of a lever.

With Toyota being a Japanese car firm you also get the benefit of excellent build quality and exceptional reliability. This will save you money in the long run and will outweigh the premium that you will pay for a car of this make. Toyota recommends that major services should be performed on the RAV 4 every 20,000 miles which also means that you should see less of the dealer or local garage which is always a good sign.

Key Features

• Available in three and five-door bodystyles

• Full time four-wheel drive (two-wheel drive NV version not available with D-4D engine)

• Latest technology, common rail, 2.0-litre D-4D diesel

• Exceptional fuel economy, low noise, low emissions

• Available in four trim levelsl (NV, NRG, GX and VX)

• Excellent combined fuel consumption of 39.8 mpg

• 0-62mph in 12.1 seconds, maximum speed of 106mph

• WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) front seats, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and twin front airbags standard on all grades

• MPV-style versatility with rear seats designed to slide, fold, tumble and be removed

• Air conditioning standard on all grades

• Remote alarm and Thatcham Category One immobiliser fitted as standard

• Roof rails standard on all grades

• Offered with three-year/ 60,000 mile warranty as standard

• On sale in the UK from 1 September 2001

• D-4D engine is a £1000 premium over petrol versions