RAV4 opinions

98hokie

New member
We are thinking of replacing an 08 Altima. We have 3 kids...ages 11, 7 (booster), and 18 months (RF). We also have a minivan, so this is not our main family vehicle. However it would be nice to have the option to take the whole family in the car, it is extremely tight, if not impossible, in the Altima. We would like an SUV, but since my husband has a long commute in traffic, gas mileage is important. I'm keeping my eyes open for a used hybrid Highlander, but I'm wondering if a new hybrid RAV4 might do the trick. Would it be possible to comfortably fit all 3 kids in the back seat of the RAV4 if they need more space than they have in the Altima. Thanks!

ETA: I would love recommendations for any other hybrid SUVs we should be considering. Budget is between 20k and 30k, but I would like to be closer to 20k.
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SavsMom

New member
Unfortunately the RAV4 will not allow 3 passengers in the backseat when a car seat is in use. This is due to the odd seat belt configuration (belt overlap).
 

SavsMom

New member
Unfortunately the RAV4 will not allow 3 passengers in the backseat when a car seat is in use. This is due to the odd seat belt configuration (belt overlap).

I should add, at one point the owners manual actually prohibited the use of the middle seat if a child restraint (of any type) was being used in an outward seat.
 

98hokie

New member
I should add, at one point the owners manual actually prohibited the use of the middle seat if a child restraint (of any type) was being used in an outward seat.

Wow, what a bummer. I read that the 2016 is a redesign. I wonder why they did not fix this problem?!

Is there anything other than a hybrid Highlander that we should consider? A full-size sedan?

We like the looks of the other small SUVs that rate well with IIHS...Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson. I know we would be going down in fuel economy, but do you know if any of these would accommodate our family?
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sirrahn

Active member
My MIL drives a Rogue. I have no idea how easy 3 across would be but it's not super cramped and I was surprised to find out that you can get a small 3rd row seat in it. Probably not great for long trips but it would give you some flexibility to put the 11yr old back there. GL

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jjordan

Moderator
Small SUVs typically have smaller back seats than mid- and full-size sedans, although how well your kids fit will of course depend on the specific vehicle. Maybe go to a car lot and have your kids test out some back seats to help you narrow down your options.
 

98hokie

New member
Yes, we will definitely try the kids out before we commit to anything. I just want to have a plan first because I dread going car shopping, and kids make it all the more challenging!
 

SavsMom

New member
Although not a "small" suv - I'd look at a Subaru Outback. It's very car like, rates well in safety and the backseat is very roomy.
 

98hokie

New member
Thanks for the suggestions. We will add the Outlander and Outback to our list.

What about the Toyota Venza? Can we get 3 in that backseat?
 

SavsMom

New member
Venza could fit 3 BUT they have terrible fit and finish issues. All 3 of the master Toyota service techs (at the dealership I worked at) said they would never recommend one.
 

98hokie

New member
Venza could fit 3 BUT they have terrible fit and finish issues. All 3 of the master Toyota service techs (at the dealership I worked at) said they would never recommend one.

Thank you! Hubby is taking the big kids to look at late-model used Outbacks this afternoon. Since you are so knowledgeable about Toyota, may I ask your opinion about 2012/2013 Highlanders? There is a 2012 base model that we are interested in. It does have a back-up camera but not the blind spot camera that I have grown so found of in my 2015 Odyssey EXL. I'm not sure how seriously to pursue the Highlander with the poor gas mileage.
 

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