The 2002 Toyota RAV4 stands as a notable entry in the evolution of compact SUVs, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and Toyota’s legendary reliability. As the second model year in the RAV4’s second generation (2001–2005), the 2002 RAV4 introduced subtle refinements that helped it remain a strong competitor in a rapidly growing market segment. Two decades later, this model is still sought after by used car buyers looking for a dependable and budget-friendly SUV.
Equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the 2002 Toyota RAV4 delivers a solid balance between power and efficiency, making it ideal for daily commuting, weekend road trips, or light off-road use. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, it offers flexibility for drivers in various climates. The 2002 RAV4 also came with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, giving buyers options based on driving preference and performance needs.
What makes the 2002 Toyota RAV4 particularly appealing today is its reputation for long-term reliability and low maintenance costs. Many owners report driving their RAV4s well past 200,000 miles with minimal major repairs, thanks to Toyota’s consistent engineering quality. The compact size, combined with a surprisingly spacious interior and versatile cargo area, makes it a smart choice for urban dwellers, small families, or students in need of a dependable vehicle.
In terms of safety and features, the 2002 RAV4 may not compete with today’s tech-packed SUVs, but it offers a straightforward, no-frills driving experience. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and a CD player, while higher trims offered remote keyless entry and alloy wheels. Optional side airbags and anti-lock brakes enhanced safety for the era.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a used car enthusiast, or simply looking for a practical and affordable SUV, the 2002 Toyota RAV4 remains a solid option in 2025. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into its performance, reliability, common issues, and what you should consider before buying this compact crossover classic.
Not every top style ends up on the runway. Some end up on the highway. Or, in some cases, off the highway. Like the 2002 RAV4. With its graceful lines and sleek design, it sets the standard for style in an SUV. And with avalable full-time 4-wheel drive and an uncommonly smooth ride, it’s versatile enough to take you almost anywhere, from the hottest desert to the coolest club. The RAV4—proof that good looks will take you places.
Standard Features
- Dual sun visors with vanity mirrors and sliding extensions
- Front maplight
- Illuminated entry system
- Driver and front passenger air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)*
- Fabric-trimmed doors with integrated speakers and map pockets
- Fabric-trimmed multi-adjustable front seats with driver’s seat height adjustment
- Multi-function center console with adjustable front and rear dual cup holders, 12-
volt auxiliary power outlet, storage pocket and covered armrest storage compartment - Remote hood and fuel-fi ller door releases
- Cargo area 12-volt auxiliary power outlet
- Deluxe AM/FM ETR/Cassette with 4 speakers
- Fabric-trimmed 50/50 split rear bench seat with slide/tumble/recline/remove functions
- P215/70R16 tires on 16” styled steel wheels
- Gray painted bumpers and body side moldings
- Aerodynamic multi-reflector halogen headlamps
- Washer-linked intermittent windshield wipers
- High Solar Energy-Absorbing (HSEA) glass
- Dual manual remote outside mirrors
- Rear window defogger
- Intermittent rear windshield wiper
- Full-size spare tire with combination hard/soft full cover
- Digital quartz clock
- 6 cargo area grocery bag hooks
Accessories
Add a personal touch to your RAV4 with Toyota options and accessories. Remember, Toyota vehicles are built with popular option combinations. Not all options are available separately, and some options and accessories may not be available in all regions of the country. So see your Toyota dealer, who can help locate the RAV4 that’s right for you.
- ront-End Mask
- Fan 5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels
- Curved 5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels
- Wheel Locks
- Mudguards
- Class I Towing Receiver Hitch
- Towing Accessories
- License Plate Frames by Grenada
- Bike Attachment
- Ski/Snowboard Attachment
- Stainless Steel Tube Steps by Steel Horse®
- Carpeted Floor Mats
- Carpeted Cargo Mat
- All-Weather Floor Mats
- Cargo Logic Cargo Mat by Nifty Products
- Cargo Net
- Toyota Vehicle Intrusion Protection (VIP) RS3200 Plus
- Security System
- Toyota Vehicle Intrusion Protection (VIP) RS3200
Security System - 6-Disc In-Dash CD Changer
- Compact Disc Deck
- Auto-Dimming Electrochromic Mirrors
Additional Options
- Defroster-linked CFC-free air conditioning
- 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P235/60R16 tires and color-keyed fender flares (4WD models only; requires L Package)
- 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P235/60R16 tires and gray painted fender fl ares (4WD models only; requires Quick Order Package)
- Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade (requires Quick Order or L Package)
- Leather Trim Package — includes leather-trimmed seats, steering wheel and shift lever (requires L Package)
- Power windows with driver-side auto up/down and pinch protection and power door locks
- Anti-theft system with engine immobilizer (requires Quick Order or L Package)
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Limited-slip rear differential (4WD models only; requires Quick Order or L Package)
- Remote keyless entry system (requires Quick Order or L Package)
- Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
- Rear privacy glass
- Roof rack
- Rear spoiler (requires L Package)
- Split 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels (requires Quick Order or L Package)
- Mudguards
- Wide mudguards (4WD models only; requires 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P235/60R16 tires and fender fl ares)
- Tonneau cover
Specifications
| Mechanical/Performance | 2WD & 4WD |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve EFI 4-cylinder with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) 148 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 142 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm |
| Ignition | Distributorless Toyota Direct Ignition system (TDI) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual Standard Standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic Available Available |
| Body construction | Unitized body |
| Drivetrain | Front engine, front-wheel drive Full-time 4-wheel drive |
| Suspension | Independent MacPherson strut front suspension with stabilizer bar and hydraulic shock absorbers; double-wishbone coil-spring rear suspension with stabilizer bar and hydraulic shock absorbers |
| Steering | Power-assisted rack-and-pinion |
| Turning circle diameter, curb to curb (ft.) | 35.4 |
| Brakes | Power-assisted ventilated front disc/rear drum with load-sensing proportioning valve (LSPV) 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) 4WD – Available, includes Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) |
Exterior Dimensions (IN.)
| Overall height, unloaded | 65.7 66.1 (65.7 with P235/60R16 tires) |
| Overall width | 68.3 68.3 (70.3 with P235/60R16 tires) |
| Overall length | 166.2 (167.1 with L Package) 166.2 (167.1 with L Package) |
| Wheelbase | 98.0 98.0 |
| Track (front/rear) | 59.3/59.1 59.3/58.9 (60.0/59.8 with P235/60R16 tires) |
Interior Dimensions front/rear (IN.)
| Dimension | 2WD & 4WD |
|---|---|
| Head room | 41.3/38.3, 41.3/38.3 |
| with moonroof | 39.6/38.3, 39.6/38.3 |
| Shoulder room | 54.1/53.7, 54.1/53.7 |
| Hip room | 53.4/46.5, 53.4/46.5 |
| Leg room | 42.4/32.6, 42.4/32.6 |
| Seating capacity | 5 , 5 |
Mileage Estimates (MPG CITY/HIGHWAY)
| Manual | 25/31, 22/27 |
| Automatic | 24/29, 23/27 |
Tires
| Size | P215/70R16, P215/70R16 |
| Type | All-Season steel-belted radial blackwalls |
| Spare | Full-size |
Is the 2002 Toyota RAV4 Still a Good Buy in 2025?
More than two decades after it first rolled off the production line, the 2002 Toyota RAV4 still has a presence on the road—and in used car listings. With crossovers and compact SUVs now dominating the market, it’s worth asking: Does the 2002 RAV4 still hold up as a smart buy in 2025? Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and considerations for purchasing this early-2000s classic.
A Snapshot of the 2002 Toyota RAV4
- Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder (148 hp)
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
- MPG: Around 22 city / 27 highway
- Notable Features (for the time): Power windows/locks, optional ABS, optional side airbags, and basic but functional interior design.
Reasons to Consider It in 2025
Legendary Toyota Reliability
The 2002 RAV4 is part of Toyota’s reputation for long-lasting vehicles. Many owners report getting well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. The mechanical simplicity of this generation is a major plus for DIYers and budget-conscious buyers.
Low Ownership Cost
Insurance is cheap, parts are widely available, and the vehicle is generally easy to work on. Compared to newer models packed with tech (and potential repair headaches), the 2002 RAV4 is refreshingly basic.
Compact, Yet Capable
It’s small enough for city driving, yet still has enough cargo room and optional AWD to handle light off-road trails or bad weather.
Fuel Efficiency
While not on par with hybrids or EVs, it gets decent mileage for a 2000s SUV, especially when compared to full-size SUVs of the same era.