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No Surprise Here: This Car Was Voted Number One in Boston

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Blue Car Parked Under Pine Trees

If you grew up in Boston or anywhere near the city, you see all types of cars from smaller vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf to the big boys–the Ford F150s and the tricked-out Jeeps Wranglers with oversized wheels. But what if I told you that the Toyota Rav4 was one of the most sold vehicles in Massachusetts? Can I interest you on why that is the case? Very well, stick around as we dive in a bit more.

The information below was an aggregate of data and information pulled from iSeeCars, that examined over 17.4 million vehicle sales to determine the most popular used and new cars by state. 

Why the Toyota Rav4 SUV is Perfect for Boston

A Blue Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 SUV has several features and qualities that make it a popular choice for many people in Boston and similar urban environments. While I can’t provide real-time information, I can mention some reasons why the Toyota RAV4 might be a good fit for city living:

  1. Compact Size: The RAV4 is a compact SUV, which makes it well-suited for navigating through Boston’s narrow streets and tight parking spaces. Its size strikes a balance between spaciousness and maneuverability.
  2. Fuel Efficiency: Many RAV4 models offer good fuel efficiency, which can be beneficial for city driving where stop-and-go traffic is common. This can help you save money on fuel costs and reduce your environmental impact.
  3. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Option: Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, with snow and ice during the winter months. The availability of all-wheel drive on the RAV4 can provide better traction and stability in challenging road conditions.
  4. Cargo Space: The RAV4 offers ample cargo space for a compact SUV. Whether you’re hauling groceries, sports equipment, or other items, the RAV4’s flexible cargo area can accommodate your needs.
  5. Safety Features: Toyota is known for its commitment to safety, and the RAV4 typically comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies. These can help you navigate Boston’s busy streets with added confidence.
  6. Comfort and Convenience: The RAV4 often comes with a comfortable interior and a variety of features designed to enhance your driving experience. This can make your daily commutes or longer trips around Boston more enjoyable.
  7. Resale Value: Toyota vehicles, including the RAV4, often have strong resale value. This can be important if you decide to sell or trade-in your vehicle in the future.
  8. Hybrid Option: The RAV4 Hybrid variant offers even better fuel efficiency, which can be particularly appealing for city driving where fuel consumption can be a concern.

12 Key Features That’s Often Missed about the Toyota Rav4

a blue toyota rav parked in front of a house

When discussing the features of a vehicle like the Toyota RAV4 or any other car, there are often some lesser-known or underappreciated features that people might not mention right away. Here are a few to consider:

  1. Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive: Some RAV4 models offer a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that can distribute torque not only between the front and rear wheels but also between the left and right rear wheels. This enhances stability and cornering performance.
  2. Multi-Terrain Select: This feature, available on certain RAV4 trims, allows you to choose different driving modes tailored to various road conditions such as mud, sand, or snow. It optimizes traction and control based on the terrain.
  3. Bird’s Eye View Camera: While people often mention backup cameras, some RAV4 models have a bird’s-eye view camera system that provides a virtual top-down view of the vehicle, which can be incredibly helpful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
  4. Low-Speed Collision Avoidance System: In addition to regular collision avoidance systems, the RAV4 might have a low-speed version designed specifically for city driving. It can help prevent collisions in stop-and-go traffic situations.
  5. Smart Key Box: Some RAV4 models offer a Smart Key Box feature, allowing you to lock and unlock the vehicle using your smartphone. This can be useful if you want to lend your car to someone or if you don’t have your physical key with you.
  6. Height-Adjustable Power Liftgate: Beyond the power liftgate feature itself, some RAV4s have a height-adjustable liftgate. This allows you to set the opening height, which can be helpful when parking in areas with low ceilings.
  7. Underfloor Storage Compartment: The cargo area might include a hidden underfloor compartment that provides additional storage space for smaller items or helps keep valuables out of sight.
  8. 360-Degree Perimeter Scan: This feature uses sensors to detect obstacles around the entire vehicle, not just in the rear. It can be especially useful when maneuvering in tight spaces.
  9. Rear Cross-Traffic Braking: In addition to alerting you to cross-traffic when reversing, some RAV4 models can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent.
  10. Interior Ambient Lighting: While often overlooked, ambient lighting in the cabin can enhance the overall driving experience by creating a pleasant atmosphere.
  11. Quiet Mode: Certain RAV4 models may have a “Quiet Mode” for the audio system that only plays sound through the front speakers. This can be useful if you have passengers in the back who want to sleep while you listen to music.
  12. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Tracing Assist: Some RAV4 models might offer advanced adaptive cruise control that not only maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead but also helps keep the RAV4 centered in its lane.
woman crossing on street ahead

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Toyota RAV4 stands as a versatile and well-equipped choice, offering a ton of features that cater to just about everyone. While commonly praised for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and safety innovations, the RAV4 encompasses a range of attributes that extend beyond the conventional discussion. Features such as dynamic torque vectoring all-wheel drive, multi-terrain select, and a bird’s-eye view camera exemplify its commitment to enhancing maneuverability, adaptability, and convenience. The RAV4’s fusion of technology, functionality, and thoughtful design showcases its suitability for navigating the complexities of city life, ultimately making it a compelling option deserving of recognition beyond the standard accolades.

Written by
Jean Gilles

Longtime resident and writer. I write here and there about topics on the Northeast as well as my experiences living in Boston. I grew up here so I know a little something something.

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