Article: RAV4 wears its growth spurt well.

Byline: Jim Mateja

CHICAGO _ It should have been called the RAV4 XXL or the RAV5, something to let people know that Toyota's entry-level sport utility vehicle has grown up _ in a big way.

The RAV4 began life in 1996 as a compact, car-based SUV _ a crossover in today's parlance. For 2006 it has been redesigned. The new sheet metal gives it a long nose, low roof and wagonlike look more in keeping with crossovers than boxy SUVs, though the styling is still more bland than bold.

It is offered in three versions _ standard, Sport and top-of-the-line Limited _ in front- or four-wheel-drive and with a 4-cylinder or V-6 engine.

We tested the 4WD Sport, which like all ...

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