Toyota RAV4 II (XA20 facelift ) 5-door 2.0 16V D-4D (116 Hp) 4WD

The Toyota RAV4 II (XA20, facelift 2003): A Global Compact SUV Stalwart

The Toyota RAV4, an acronym for “Recreational Activity Vehicle: 4-wheel drive,” pioneered the compact SUV segment upon its original introduction in 1994. The second generation, designated XA20, built upon this success, offering a more refined and versatile package. The specific variant under consideration, the Toyota RAV4 II (XA20, facelift 2003) 5-door 2.0 16V D-4D (116 Hp) 4WD, represents a significant evolution, particularly for markets outside of North America where diesel powertrains were highly valued. Produced from December 2003 to January 2006, this facelifted model brought subtle enhancements to an already popular platform, reinforcing its position as a go-to choice for consumers seeking a practical, efficient, and capable compact sport utility vehicle.

While the RAV4 nameplate is globally recognized, this particular diesel-powered, all-wheel-drive configuration was predominantly sold in European and Asian markets, where diesel engines offered a compelling blend of fuel efficiency and torque. In the United States, the RAV4 II was available exclusively with gasoline engines, reflecting different market demands and fuel preferences. Nonetheless, the underlying design philosophy and robust engineering of the XA20 generation were consistent across continents, cementing the RAV4’s reputation for reliability and utility.

Engine and Performance of the Toyota RAV4 II (XA20, facelift 2003)

At the heart of this particular Toyota RAV4 II (XA20, facelift 2003) model is the 1CD-FTV engine, a 2.0-liter (1995 cm³ or 121.74 cubic inches) 16-valve D-4D (Direct Injection 4-stroke Common Rail Diesel) inline-four engine. This powertrain was a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess in diesel technology, featuring a common rail fuel injection system, a turbocharger, and an intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency.

The engine delivered a respectable 116 horsepower at 4000 rpm, which, when combined with a robust 184.39 lb.-ft. of torque available from a low 1800 rpm, provided ample pulling power and responsive acceleration. The low-end torque was particularly beneficial for everyday driving, offering a strong surge from a standstill and making the vehicle feel nimble in urban environments or when tackling light off-road conditions.

Power was sent to all four wheels via a durable 5-speed manual transmission, offering drivers direct control over the vehicle’s output. This all-wheel-drive (4×4) system enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or on unpaved roads, aligning with the RAV4’s “Recreational Activity Vehicle” ethos. Performance figures included an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in a competitive 11.5 seconds, with a top speed reaching 105.63 mph (170 km/h).

Despite its capable performance, efficiency was a key highlight. The combined fuel economy for this diesel variant was rated at an impressive 33.1 US mpg (7.1 l/100 km). Urban consumption stood at 26.4 US mpg (8.9 l/100 km), while extra-urban driving saw figures as high as 38.6 US mpg (6.1 l/100 km). These figures, alongside CO2 emissions of 190 g/km, were competitive for its class and era, meeting the Euro 3 emission standard. The engine’s oil capacity was 6.23 US quarts (5.9 liters), indicative of a well-engineered unit designed for longevity.

Design and Features

The Toyota RAV4 II (XA20, facelift 2003) retained the popular compact SUV body style, characterized by its practical 5-door configuration and seating for five occupants. The facelift introduced subtle refinements to the exterior and interior, keeping the design fresh and modern without straying from the RAV4’s established identity. These updates typically included revised front and rear bumpers, updated grille designs, new headlamp and taillight clusters, and possibly new wheel designs. The overall aesthetic remained rugged yet approachable, appealing to a broad demographic.

Dimensionally, the vehicle measured 166.14 inches in length, 68.31 inches in width, and 66.54 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 98.03 inches. These compact dimensions contributed to its maneuverability in city traffic and ease of parking, a significant advantage over larger SUVs. The curb weight of 3185.68 pounds (1445 kg) contributed to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency.

Inside, the RAV4 II offered a functional and ergonomic cabin. The 5-seat layout provided comfortable seating for occupants, while the cargo area was versatile. Minimum trunk space was 14.13 cubic feet (400 liters), expanding significantly to 40.61 cubic feet (1150 liters) with the rear seats folded, making it suitable for hauling luggage, groceries, or recreational gear. The maximum payload capacity was 1069.24 pounds (485 kg), and it had a respectable towing capacity of 3306.93 pounds (1500 kg) with brakes, further enhancing its utility.

Suspension-wise, the RAV4 II featured an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, paired with a double wishbone rear suspension. This combination provided a comfortable ride quality and stable handling characteristics, balancing on-road composure with sufficient articulation for light off-road excursions. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, augmented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The hydraulic rack and pinion steering system offered direct feedback and ease of maneuverability. The vehicle rode on 215/70 R16 tires mounted on 6.5J x 16-inch wheel rims.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Toyota RAV4 II (XA20) continued the successful trajectory of its predecessor, solidifying Toyota’s dominance in the burgeoning compact SUV segment. The 2003 facelift, including the 2.0 16V D-4D (116 Hp) 4WD variant, played a crucial role in maintaining its competitiveness, particularly in markets where diesel power was a significant selling point. In Europe and parts of Asia, this diesel RAV4 was highly regarded for its blend of practicality, robust construction, and impressive fuel economy, making it an ideal choice for both urban commuters and those seeking light off-road capability for weekend adventures.

Competitors in its primary markets included vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, Land Rover Freelander, and various models from European manufacturers such as the BMW X3 and Volkswagen Tiguan (though the latter arrived later in the decade). The RAV4 distinguished itself with Toyota’s well-established reputation for uncompromising reliability and low running costs, often outperforming rivals in long-term dependability surveys. The D-4D engine, in particular, was known for its durability and efficiency, contributing to the RAV4’s strong resale values.

The XA20 generation, especially its facelifted iteration, marked a period of refinement for the RAV4. It demonstrated Toyota’s commitment to evolving its popular models to meet changing consumer demands, particularly in terms of powertrain options and interior comfort. The integration of advanced features for its time, such as ABS and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, further enhanced its appeal as a safe and capable family vehicle.

Historically, the Toyota RAV4 II (XA20, facelift 2003) represented a vital link in the RAV4’s journey from a niche offering to a global sales phenomenon. It helped define what a compact SUV could be: a vehicle that offered the rugged looks and higher driving position of a traditional SUV, but with the fuel efficiency, handling dynamics, and comfort of a passenger car. Its legacy endures in the subsequent generations of the RAV4, which have consistently been among the best-selling SUVs worldwide, continuing to build on the foundation of versatility, efficiency, and unwavering reliability established by models like the 2003 facelifted XA20 diesel variant.