Toyota RAV4 Invincible 2.2 D-4D AWD 5dr Car Review - May 2013

The 2.2 litre diesel engine is an updated version of the same engine that powered the top models in the previous RAV4 range, and is accomplished with plenty of power. Acceleration in this big crossover is impressive, going from 0-62mph in just 9.6 seconds, with the engine also able to propel the car to a top speed of 118mph, which means the 4x4 is equally comfortable on a long motorway journey. While it isn't the most agile car in its class, the steering is accurate and responds predictably when turning into a corner, but the 4x4 option on the car does mean it has a fair bit of body roll through the corners.

The electric adjustment for the driver's seat is a welcome feature that comes with this level of trim, while the amount of adjustment has been improved for the new RAV4, offering even more options for the driver. The centre console is also very intuitive, with the control easy to use despite all the equipment that is included with this version of the car.

The RAV4 was certainly looking its age, but with the newly redesigned range available the looks have been brought right up to date, with the front end being particularly dynamic in style. The sleek headlights and bulging wheel arches are very good for the look of the car, while the chrome trim on the front bumper is an extra sign of the quality with this level of trim. The eighteen inch alloy wheels also help to finish the look of the car, which is a polished package that will look good on any driveway.

The Invincible level of trim is the best on offer from Toyota, and there is no doubt that while it is more expensive, it is certainly the most comfortable and luxurious version of the RAV4 on offer. Features such as heated leather seats really do add to the comfort, while the rain sensing wipers and automatic lights that come on when it gets dark are really good features to have. Satellite navigation is an optional extra, but on the whole the level of trim is very good indeed.

One of the major changes that has been made to improve the new RAV4 is to mount the tailgate on the roof rather than the side hinge, and this makes getting bulky items into the large load space in the boot much easier. Space within the car is also very good, with plenty of headroom and legroom for four adults to travel in luxurious comfort in the leather seats, while the back seats fold down to provide a huge space in the back.

The RAV4 is also a very safe car getting top marks in the European crash tests, with seven air bags and stability control helping to ensure it is a safe vehicle. The car also comes with innovative systems such as the Blind Spot Monitor and rear parking sensors to help avoid even the smallest accidents. Toyota has an excellent record when it comes to making reliable cars, and the RAV4 is likely to enjoy the same sort of reliability figures as its predecessors.

This version of the RAV4 does come with the luxurious interior offered with the Invincible level of trim, but those on a budget may find the list price of £28,200 too high to justify purchasing this version of the car. While the 2.2 litre diesel engine is the largest in the range, it is still fairly good in terms of its efficiency as a 4x4, offering an average 49.6mpg.

The residual values for the RAV4 have always proved very strong, and this car should be similarly desirable on the second hand market, with the luxuries in this version helping to drive a sale. The car also enjoys the tremendous Toyota after sales package of a five year or ninety nine thousand mile warranty, and a one year roadside breakdown assistance policy.