Used Toyota RAV4 for sale nearColchester

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 600
Average Price: Around £21,000

Toyota RAV4 (2006-2013) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Low running costs for an SUV	Dull styling
Every bit as reliable as you'd expect of a Toyota	Side-hinged tailgate is irritating
Surprisingly good fun to drive	Firm ride

Quick Summary

The Toyota RAV4 (2006-2013), the third-generation model, is a practical and reliable five-seat SUV that offers excellent value for money. Growing in every dimension compared to its predecessors, it provides ample interior space, particularly for rear passengers, with 586 litres of boot space with seats up and 1,469 litres with them folded. The RAV4 handles well on the road with sharper handling than most contemporary SUVs, though the side-hinged tailgate can be inconvenient in tight parking spaces. It's a car that prioritises practicality and dependability over flashy styling.

Toyota offered a choice of petrol and diesel engines, with the 148bhp 2.2 D-4D diesel being the standout choice, delivering class-leading efficiency with official combined figures of 48.7mpg and real-world economy in the low to mid 40s. The more powerful T180 diesel provides lively acceleration and achieves high 30s mpg, whilst petrol versions are more affordable to buy but less economical to run. With nine airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, and Traction Control, the RAV4 is a safe car that scored four out of five in Euro NCAP testing. As a used car, it represents excellent value, combining reliability, low running costs, and enjoyable driving dynamics.

Best for: Buyers seeking a reliable and practical SUV with low running costs, families needing spacious five-seat transport, and those prioritising Toyota's renowned dependability over premium styling.

Not ideal for: Buyers who value striking design, prefer a roof-hinged tailgate, or seek a softer, more comfortable ride over handling prowess.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RAV4 if: You're seeking a reliable and practical SUV with low running costs, need spacious five-seat transport for families, or prioritise Toyota's renowned dependability over premium styling.

Consider alternatives if: You value striking design, prefer a roof-hinged tailgate, or seek a softer, more comfortable ride over handling prowess.

Competitive Position: The Toyota RAV4 (2006-2013) is a strong contender in the used five-seat SUV market, matching rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga for expert ratings whilst offering superior user satisfaction at 4.7 out of 5. Its standout strength lies in exceptional fuel economy, particularly with the 148bhp diesel engine, and Toyota's legendary reliability. Whilst the Honda CR-V offers comparable user ratings and slightly better value deals, the RAV4 delivers more engaging driving dynamics and lower running costs. The firm ride and dull styling are minor compromises for a car that excels in practicality, dependability, and economy.

Read our full Toyota RAV4 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.