Rav4 ... any views?

[dust-devil]

I am in the market for a replacement for swambo's platkar. We are leaning towards the RAV4, due to its raised height, and being able to do backroads, gravel etc (already have the Hilux for the hard core stuff). Also - it's Toyota!
Considering 2012 (new or low km 2nd hand). Undecided about petrol or diesel, manual or auto.
Any info regarding these vehicles would be appreciated, eg maintenance costs, fuel consumption, towing, auto vs manual, etc.
Many thanks.

[dirtshark]

I am in the market for a replacement for swambo's platkar. We are leaning towards the RAV4, due to its raised height, and being able to do backroads, gravel etc (already have the Hilux for the hard core stuff). Also - it's Toyota!
Considering 2012 (new or low km 2nd hand). Undecided about petrol or diesel, manual or auto.
Any info regarding these vehicles would be appreciated, eg maintenance costs, fuel consumption, towing, auto vs manual, etc.
Many thanks.

Very good vehicle, diesel is superb but no auto, tow rating is crud at 700kgs??(the Honda CRV is 2000kgs) I was actually looking at getting one but it can't match the Fortuner for towing my boat and beach work.
Bear in mind that a new model is coming soon.

[Bryan Webber]

We have a 2.0l GX auto in the family. Runs really well for a 2.0. Can sit at high speeds, gets around 9-12km/l and fantastic build quality. However, for really bad dirt roads I'd say fortuner 2x4