The first Toyota RAV4, launched in 1994, became an instant hit for people wanting a fun hot hatch-type car, but with the high driving position and styling of an off-roader.
It was one of the first small SUVs and was bought mostly by people who would never venture off-road, preferring instead to pick their way through the urban jungle.
So, when a facelifted RAV4 appeared in 2000, it made sense to launch a stripped down two-wheel drive version – only available as a 3-door.
The 1.8-litre RAV4 NV had all the ease of ownership, low running costs and driver appeal of a small hatch, bit with a lofty driving position and peerless visibility. Perfect for the city streets.
This one, which is also ULEZ exempt, was owned by one owner until last year and has a genuine 35k on the clock.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Bought new in 2002
Original owner until 2021
MOT until September 2022
The vendor of the RAV4 is only the second keeper, the first having owned the car from brand-new in 2002 up until late last year. The vendor was going to keep it longer term but has recently found out they have a second child on the way and need a larger vehicle.
The Toyota has an MOT until September 2022.
THE INTERIOR
Grey and blue cloth trim
Colour-coded carpets and door trims
Air conditioning
Original stereo
Flat-fold rear seats
It's all very bright and airy inside the RAV4’s cabin, with light grey velour seats featuring blue cloth inserts and matching colourways for the door cards and pale blue carpets.
Aside from some wear to the driver’s side seat bolster where the previous elderly owner has leaned on the seat to get in and out of the car, the interior is pretty much spotless with no damage or major signs of deterioration.
The original radio works, as does the air conditioning.
THE EXTERIOR
Metallic blue over grey
Some minor dents
Five-spoke alloys with recent tyres
Original and very clean and tidy
Finished in smart metallic blue over grey, matching the colour scheme of the interior, the outside of the RAV4 presents well and it sits exactly as it should, with the poise of a low mileage car.
The five-spoke alloys are unmarked and are equipped with recent new tyres, while there is no evidence of any rust or significant damage anywhere on the exterior bodywork.
There are a couple of minor cosmetic marks, notably some small dents on one side door and a couple of scuffs on the front bumper, but these don't affect the vehicle in any way.
Optional extras fitted include rear light guards and front fog lamps, which give it a more purposeful appearance.
THE MECHANICS
1.8 VVTi engine
Quiet and smooth
No known problems
Under the bonnet you'll find Toyota’s 1ZZ-FE 1.8-litre engine with variable valve timing.
It's a lively unit and was also found in the MR2. It starts on the button with a near silent idle and revs sweetly with no rattles.
According to the vendor, the RAV4 drives absolutely fine with no known issues whatsoever and has been a faithful and reliable servant for the six months in which they have owned it.
SUMMARY
There's something very funky about a RAV4 - it's a car that reinvented the SUV concept in many ways and has a bit of a cult following as a result.
This one has an incredibly low mileage for a 20-year-old car and would make a great daily driver, while at the same time having future classic written all over it.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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NO RESERVE - 2002 Toyota RAV4
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