By Chris Chase, Autos.ca

The Toyota RAV4 debuted in 1996, making it one of the originators of the “cute-ute” compact SUV segment, along with the Suzuki Sidekick and Honda CR-V. Through its first two generations, it was indeed compact, but the third generation, underwent a significant transformation into a vehicle verging on mid-size crossover territory.

2010 Toyota RAV4 V6 Sport

This seemingly steroidal upgrade brought a number of firsts to the RAV4, including a V6 engine and three-row seating. The basic RAV4 was powered by the same 2.4-litre, four-cylinder engine found in the previous generation, its 166 hp/165 lb.-ft. of torque proving adequate, but not amazing, in its new, heavier host. The optional 3.5-litre V6 was a more satisfying choice with its 268 hp/246 lb.-ft., but a jumpy throttle made it feel almost like too much motor. All-wheel drive was standard, as were automatic transmissions; the four-cylinder got a four-speed, and the V6 was mated to a five-speed. (more…)