The first generation RAV4 was sold from 1996 until 2000. It came with a 2 liter I4 engine that made 120 horsepower. Front wheel drive was standard, but there was a four wheel drive option. Horsepower was increased in later models in the first generation. The body types sold during this period include 2 door convertible, 4 door SUV, and 2 door SUV.

One very rare version of the RAV4 was sold in California from 1997 until 2003. It was the Toyota RAV4 EV, and it was an electric vehicle with zero emissions. The battery came with a 60,000 mile warranty, which was needed to ease customer concerns about battery life and replacement costs. The RAV4 EV did not sell in very high numbers, and they are very rare today. They can command up to $50,000 on the used car market, which shows where the demand is for electric vehicles in various body types.

The second generation RAV4 was sold from 2001 until 2005. The U.S. model only came with 4 doors, and the 2 liter I4 engine was also the only option, despite a diesel being offered in some other markets. A sport package added a mesh grille, a hood scoop, and various other styling improvements. There was a mid-generational redesign in 2004, and a higher output engine was also added.

The third generation RAV4 has been sold since 2006. The I4 engine is still the standard, but a V6 is optional for the first time. Two wheel drive is still an option, but the four wheel drive is very popular in the U.S.

The RAV4 can be found quite easily in the United States on the used car market. Check on eBay before going anywhere else, as the prices are often much lower than you'll find in your local "on the side of the road" market.