If I want a smallish Toyota CUV with some power and AWD I only needed to pay $25k back then, or $28k in today's money. Now I have to pay a whole lot more. I don't deny that the new RAV4 is most definitely improved in various ways, but why did it have to be a step forward, but also a step back? That's all I'm saying. it's frustrating.

 

I don't disagree. While I never cared for the styling of the previous model, the V6 could make me forget. Luckily I do like the styling of the new model and what it offers, because this time around there's no V6 to soften the blow. I believe it's because they wanted to simplify the lineup, and "encourage" people who want a V6 to step up to a Highlander.