2010 Toyota RAV4 Base 2.5L 4-Cylinder 4-Spd Auto 91K
Super Low Miles On This Well Maintained RAV4 4-Cylinder With 29 Service Records!
For buyers seeking a reliable, efficient, and well-maintained compact SUV, this 2010 Toyota RAV4 Base 2.5L I4 2WD is an exceptional choice. With only 91,000 miles, a three-owner history, and a clean title, this vehicle has been diligently cared for, as evidenced by its clean Carfax report with no accidents and 29 service records, reflecting consistent maintenance over its lifetime. Finished in a classic black exterior with a practical ash cloth interior, it offers a timeless look paired with everyday functionality. Powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission, this RAV4 delivers smooth performance and versatility. As part of the third-generation RAV4, it represents a highly popular design known for its compact size, durability, and family-friendly features. This summary covers its history, specs, safety ratings, standout features, and a 10-point essentials list to highlight why this RAV4 Base is a top pick in the used compact SUV market.
Vehicle History and Generation Background
The 2010 Toyota RAV4 Base belongs to the third generation of this pioneering compact SUV, produced from 2006 to 2012. Launched in late 2005 as a 2006 model, this generation marked a significant evolution for the RAV4, introducing a more rugged design, increased interior space, and the option for a powerful V6 engine, while retaining the compact footprint that made it a bestseller. Assembled in Japan (Tahara and Obu plants) and Canada (Woodstock, Ontario), the third-gen RAV4 became a top contender in the compact SUV segment, competing with the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. The 2010 model year continued this legacy, featuring updates like a redesigned front grille, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features like standard side curtain airbags. This generation solidified the RAV4’s reputation as a versatile family vehicle, with the base trim offering essential features at an affordable price point. This specific RAV4 Base, with its low mileage for its age, three-owner history, and extensive service record, exemplifies the generation’s legacy of reliability and practicality, making it a rare find for buyers valuing efficiency and durability in a compact package.
Performance, Fuel Economy, and Torque Ratings
The 2010 Toyota RAV4 Base 2WD is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine (2AR-FE) with Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 179 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth and responsive performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 9 seconds—adequate for its class, as noted in historical Edmunds reviews. Fuel economy is rated at 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, with a combined 24 MPG, making it one of the more efficient compact SUVs of its era, particularly in 2WD configuration. The 15.9-gallon fuel tank provides a decent range for daily driving or light trips. The RAV4 Base can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for light loads like small trailers or jet skis—a capability that enhances its utility, though it’s less than V6 models. These figures showcase its balance of efficiency and performance, ideal for urban commuters or small families needing a fuel-sipping daily driver.
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Safety is a key strength of the 2010 Toyota RAV4, as reflected in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the 2WD model:
- Overall Vehicle Score: ★★★★☆ (updated testing standards for 2010).
- Frontal Crash (Driver): ★★★★★
- Frontal Crash (Passenger): ★★★★☆
- Side Crash (Front Occupants): ★★★★★
- Side Crash (Rear Occupants): ★★★★★
- Rollover: ★★★★☆
Equipped with six airbags (front, side, and side curtain for both rows), anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system, the RAV4 earns top marks for side crash protection. The 4-star overall and rollover ratings are solid for a compact SUV, reflecting its higher center of gravity, but its robust construction provides confidence for family use. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 2010 RAV4 “Good” in most categories, earning it a Top Safety Pick designation, further affirming its safety credentials for its era.
Standout Features & Peformance Comparison
The 2010 Toyota RAV4 Base 2WD offers a practical suite of features, designed for everyday utility with a focus on simplicity and comfort. The ash cloth interior is durable and easy to clean, paired with the black exterior for a sleek, understated look. Key features include air conditioning, a 4-speaker audio system with an AM/FM/CD player and auxiliary input, power windows and locks, cruise control, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that expands cargo space from 36.4 cubic feet to 73 cubic feet. The base trim provides essential amenities like remote keyless entry and a rear defroster, making it a no-frills but dependable option. In the luxury mid-size SUV category (though RAV4 is compact, it competed in the premium segment), the RAV4 Base’s performance stacks up well against competitors like the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Tucson. The RAV4’s 179 hp 4-cylinder offers a balanced ride, matching the CR-V’s 180 hp but surpassing the Escape’s 171 hp base and Tucson’s 165 hp, with a smoother handling than the Escape’s rougher suspension. The RAV4’s fuel economy (22/28 MPG) outperformed the CR-V (21/27 MPG) and Escape (21/28 MPG with the 2.5L I4) and was close to the Tucson’s 22/31 MPG. The RAV4 excelled in interior space (73 cubic feet cargo) compared to the CR-V (72.9 cubic feet) and Escape (67.2 cubic feet), while its upscale options and quiet cabin outshone the Tucson’s basic interior. The RAV4’s combination of efficiency, reliability, and practicality made it a top choice, often outranking competitors in owner satisfaction surveys from that era.
Popularity and Reliability of the 2.5L 4-Cylinder
The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine is a cornerstone of the 2010 Toyota RAV4’s popularity, featuring a metal timing chain that never needs replacement—unlike a rubber timing belt requiring service every 90,000–100,000 miles (a $500–$800 cost)—saving significant maintenance expenses. This engine, producing 179 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, is known for its durability, often lasting 200,000–300,000 miles with proper care, as reported by owners on forums like RAV4World. The RAV4’s overall reliability is legendary, with the third-generation model earning a 4.6/5 rating on Cars.com for dependability, outpacing competitors and contributing to its status as Toyota’s best-selling SUV. The metal timing chain, a key feature of this engine, eliminates a common maintenance headache, and the RAV4’s robust unibody construction enhances its longevity, with many owners reporting 250,000 miles with routine maintenance. This durability, combined with low ownership costs, makes the RAV4 a highly popular choice for long-term use.
Essentials
- Mileage: 91,000 miles—low for a 2010 model, with potential for many more.
- Ownership: Three owners with a clean Carfax and no accidents.
- Service History: 29 service records showing consistent maintenance.
- Condition: Clean title, black exterior, and ash cloth interior in great shape.
- Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder with 179 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, metal timing chain.
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic for smooth, efficient driving.
- Safety: NHTSA 5-star driver frontal and side ratings (★★★★★), 4-star passenger frontal (★★★★☆).
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, 24 MPG combined—excellent for its class.
- Features: Compact size, 60/40 split rear seat, and basic audio system for practicality.
- Reliability: Proven 2.5L engine with low maintenance and durability beyond 200,000 miles.
This 2010 Toyota RAV4 Base 2.5L I4 2WD is a standout with its low 91,000 miles, three-owner history, and clean title, reflecting diligent care backed by 29 service records and a clean Carfax with no accidents. The black finish and ash cloth interior offer a sleek, low-maintenance package, and the base trim’s practicality, with features like power windows, cruise control, and a tilt steering wheel, makes it ideal for daily use. The 2.5L 4-cylinder with a metal timing chain ensures reliability and low maintenance costs, with a track record of lasting 200,000–300,000 miles, as noted in Consumer Reports. As the third generation, this 2010 RAV4 is part of a highly popular era known for its compact size, durability, and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a long-lasting, dependable SUV.
For a prospective buyer craving a compact SUV with reliability, efficiency, and a well-documented history, this 2010 Toyota RAV4 Base 2.5L I4 2WD is a perfect match. Its low mileage, extensive service history, and top NHTSA safety ratings make it a trustworthy companion, while the base trim’s practical features enhance its appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its fuel-sipping 2.5L engine, spacious interior, or the third generation’s enduring design, this RAV4 delivers. It’s a testament to the RAV4’s popularity—reliable, versatile, and built to last. Take it for a test drive to experience why this 2010 model remains a beloved choice over a decade and a half later, ready to serve its next owner with the same dependability it’s always offered.

2010 Toyota RAV4 base i4
JTMZF4DV4A5015883
VINJTMZF4DV4A5015883 | MakeToyota | ModelRAV4 | Year2010 | TrimBase I4 2WD |
Style/BodySPORT UTILITY 4-DR | Engine2.4L L4 DOHC 16V | Manufactured inTahara, Japan | Age15 years |
Transmission4-Speed Automatic | VIN ValidationCheck Digit is Correct | History DataRecords Found |
Basic
Model Year | 2010 |
---|---|
Make | Toyota |
Model | RAV4 |
Trim Level | Base I4 2WD |
Manufactured in | Tahara, Japan |
Body Style | SPORT UTILITY 4-DR |
Drivetrain
Engine Type | 2.4L L4 DOHC 16V |
---|---|
Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
Driveline | FWD |
Seating
Standard Seating | 5 |
---|---|
Optional Seating | 7 |
Fuel
Tank | 15.90 |
---|---|
Fuel Economy City | 22 |
Fuel Economy Highway | 28 |
Fuel Type | GAS |
Braking
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
---|---|
Front Brake Type | Disc |
Rear Brake Type | Disc |
ABS Brakes | Standard |
Wheels and Tires
Tires | 215/70R16 |
---|---|
Steel Wheels | Standard |
Weight
Standard Towing | 1500 |
---|---|
Maximum Towing | 1500 |
Standard Payload | 1070 |
Maximum Payload | 1370 |
Standard GVWR | 4430 |
Maximum GVWR | 4730 |
Dimensions
Turning Diameter | 34.80 |
---|---|
Front Headroom | 40.80 |
Rear Headroom | 39.70 |
Front Legroom | 41.80 |
Rear Legroom | 38.30 |
Front Shoulder Room | 57.10 |
Rear Shoulder Room | 55.30 |
Front Hip Room | 53.80 |
Rear Hip Room | 52.40 |
Overall Length | 181.90 |
Overall Width | 71.50 |
Overall Height | 66.30 |
Wheelbase | 104.70 |
Track Front | 61.40 |
Suspension
Front Suspension | Ind |
---|---|
Rear Suspension | Ind |
Front Spring Type | Coil |
Rear Spring Type | Coil |
Comfort
Air Conditioning | Standard |
---|
Safety
Child Safety Door Locks | Standard |
---|---|
Driver Airbag | Standard |
Front Side Airbag | Standard |
Passenger Airbag | Standard |
Keyless Entry | Standard |
Pricing
MSRP | $21,500 |
---|---|
Dealer Invoice | $20,103 |
Destination Charge | $800 |
Lighting
Automatic Headlights | Standard |
---|---|
Daytime Running Lights | Optional |
Fog Lights | N/A |
Features
Cruise Control | Standard |
---|---|
Heated Steering Wheel | N/A |
Leather Steering Wheel | N/A |
Colors
Interior Trim |
Ash Cloth Interior Sand Beige Cloth Interior |
---|---|
Exterior Color |
Barcelona Red Metallic Black Black Forest Pearl Classic Silver Metallic Pacific Blue Metallic Pyrite Mica Sandy Beach Metallic Super White |
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