Toyota's little ute grows up; First drive: 2006 Toyota RAV4.(News)

Byline: MAC MORRISON

Toyota's third-generation RAV4, on sale in late December, re-creates the model that helped launch the small, car-based sport/utility vehicle segment in 1996.

It starts with size. RAV4's new chassis provides a 6.7-inch-longer wheelbase that equates to nearly six inches of additional second-row legroom. Second-row passengers also benefit from 1.4 inches of extra headroom and 1.6 inches more shoulder room. The larger dimensions mean the RAV4 is equal in size to Honda's CR-V.

The Toyota's lines combine sophistication with ute-ish ruggedness, while dropping the previous model's "econo-ute'' appearance. The interior's fit-and-finish is spot-on, though the pre-production vehicles tested came with some generic trim pieces that won't appear on the final version. A two-tier dashboard design is clean and offers storage space and convenient features: A bin above the glovebox opens and closes with the touch of a button.

One negative is a tailgate that hinges from the passenger side-Japanese-style-making it inconvenient for curbside loading and unloading. An optional third-row seat is predictably cramped for adults, though it folds easily into the floor to free up cargo space.

The RAV4 uses a revised version of Toyota's 2.4-liter four-cylinder, or for the first time, a V6 transplanted from the high-line Avalon sedan. (V6 models go on sale in late ...