The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that has been a pioneer in the segment and is produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It first debuted in Japan and Europe in 1994, followed by its introduction to the North American market in 1995 and was officially launched in January 1996. The RAV4 was designed to cater to consumers who desired the benefits of an SUV, such as increased cargo space, better visibility, and the option of four-wheel drive, while also offering the agility and fuel efficiency of a compact car.

The name “RAV4” stands for “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive” or “Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive,” signifying its intended versatility and capability. Despite the name, not all RAV4 models come equipped with the four-wheel-drive system, offering a range of options to suit different preferences.

Key Points:
1. Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV known for kickstarting the trend of compact crossovers.
2. It was first introduced in Japan and Europe in 1994 and later in North America in 1995.
3. The vehicle combines SUV benefits like increased cargo space and better visibility with the agility and fuel efficiency of a compact car.
4. The RAV4 offers the option of four-wheel drive, although not all models include this feature.
5. The name RAV4 is derived from “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive

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