The Toyota RAV4 was one of the first small Japanese SUV's, or mini-utes. The RAV4 combined a compact package and all-independent suspension to provide a car-like ride. As more competitors entered this segment, the RAV4 fell victim to its high price and cramped interior. Toyota will change that with the 2001 RAV4. The new RAV4 is bigger all-around, and boasts a new more powerful engine.