By Chris Thorp

August 2004

There's been some tough talking at Toyota recently. First came the Hilux Invincible, and now here's the RAV4 Granite. So does the high-spec model prove a rock-solid buy, or should it be dropped like a stone?

Based on the mid-range XT3 version of the top-selling SUV, the special edition only comes with a 2.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine. You also get 17-inch alloys, aluminium sidebars, chrome rear light protectors and unique badging.

While the shape of the RAV4 doesn't naturally lend itself to a luxury make-over, the Granite's upgrades will appeal to those who want to stand out.

Move inside, and the Toyota's practical cabin has been left largely un-touched. However, it gains aluminium scuff plates and - more importantly - a six-CD autochanger. At ΂£20,995, the newcomer is ΂£1,250 more than the equivalent XT3. Given that the CD unit is a ΂£305.95 option on other models, buyers are effectively paying ΂£944.05 for the cosmetic tweaks. If you like the look of this Granite's surfaces, that's the price you'll have to pay.

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