‘Cute-ute’ RAV4 gets a makeover for ‘06

If Toyota’s RAV4 were human, it would have stretch marks.

For 2006, the original cute-ute has grown like an out-of-control adolescent. It’s 14.5 inches longer and has added optional third-row seating and V-6 power.

I can’t be sure, but I think its voice is changing, too.

The RAV4 was the original car-based “cute-ute” when it was introduced in 1996, but now it’s just 3.5 inches shorter than the Toyota’s midsize crossover SUV, the Highlander, and about the same size as Honda’s latest CR-V.

The RAV4 weighs a little less than the Highlander, which itself is scheduled for a growth spurt, but even so its base four- and up-level six-cylinder engines are more powerful than Highlander’s equivalent choices.

On the other hand, the Highlander has a hybrid option, while the RAV does not.

Upon its introduction, the RAV4 dismantled conventional wisdom. Instead of building it on the Tacoma’s body-on-frame truck platform, Toyota startled the world and kick-started a trend by adapting the Corolla’s unibody structure.

Despite its height, the RAV4 drove more like a car than a truck. Available in either front- or all-drive configurations it was, in effect, a tall wagon with enough SUV charisma to benefit from the association.

It didn’t do off-roads, of course — not like a real SUV would — nor was it much for towing, although with the newly available, 269-horsepower six and a tow package, the new edition is good for 3,500 pounds.

The RAV4’s real raison d’etre is simple: it specializes in the type of urban/suburban people hauling that accounts for the bulk of America’s drive time.

In this parent-and-child world, the RAV4 is often used as a second car, the one that runs to the grocery store and hauls the kids — and the ones across the street to school and soccer practice.

It doesn’t matter that the third-row seats are too small to be comfortable over the long-haul, because they’re not often used that way.

Instead, the 50/50 split folding rear seat spends most of its time hidden under the floor; when it and the second-row seats are folded, a large cargo space emerges, helping account for its appeal to the other big group of RAV4 buyers — the so-called Active Singles.

These are (usually) the young folks, who ski or snowboard, and who want a little extra room for friends and the occasional light move. They don’t necessarily need the specialized capabilities of a true SUV, nor do they want to pay at the tank for the privilege: Equipped with the six and all-wheel drive, the ‘06 RAV4 gets EPA ratings of 23 city/28 highway; no truck-based SUV comes close.

The stem-to-stern ‘06 makeover features an aggressively styled front end, side-body character lines and a sleeker, more aerodynamic silhouette.

An innovative, two-tier instrument panel highlights the restyled interior. Pleasing, durable materials cover the dash and door panels and the switchgear has that familiar Toyota heft. Quality is found in such details as the dimpled hard-rubber handbrake lever.

The steering wheel tilts and telescopes and the driver’s seat adjusts for height. The two-place second row slides fore aft and, like the third-row seat, folds easily away.

A redesigned suspension improves ride and handling and the rear shock absorbers are positioned diagonally to allow for a larger, lower cargo deck.

The RAV4 is available in three trim levels, Base (from $20,905, including destination), Sport ($22,480) and Limited ($23,160).

In what can only be considered a touch of automotive decency, Toyota makes both engines — the 166-hp four carries over from last year — available on all trims. The buyer who wants the Limited comfort and convenience upgrades isn’t forced to pony up for the six-cylinder power plant.

For maximum fuel efficiency, the previous, full-time four-wheel drive system is replaced by a part-time system in which power flows to the rear wheels only when traction loss demands. In challenging conditions, the driver can manually lock the system into 4X4 mode, setting the power split at 55 front/45 rear. In front-drive versions, a limited-slip differential helps manage traction loss.

Even the base RAV4 is very well equipped, with power windows, door locks and folding rearview mirrors; remote keyless entry; six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio with mini-plug jack and MP3/WMA playback capability; air conditioning; tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel; and a gaggle of cupholders and 12-volt power outlets.

All RAV4’s receive Toyota’s “Star Safety System,” which includes vehicle stability control, traction control and anti-lock braking with brakeforce distribution and brake assist. The stability control system includes a function that discourages drivers from turning the steering wheel in the wrong direction during a skid.

Given that high level of standard gear, it’s a little surprising to find that side-impact airbags are optional.

What’s a cute-ute called when it’s all grown up? The EPA still classifies the RAV4 as a small SUV, but it’s now small like the average 15-year-old is small. Fortunately, it’s a lot neater than most and not nearly as hungry.

The little RAV4 started something big. It’s not so little any more, but it’s no stretch to say it’s growing gracefully into its late adolescence.