The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV from Toyota. It was the first compact crossover SUV,[1] introduced in Japan and Europe in 1994 and beginning sales in North America in 1996. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the maneuverability and better fuel economy of a smaller car. Its name stands for "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", although not all RAV4s have four wheel drive, which is optional in some countries.[2] The early success of the RAV4 paved the way for other compact SUVs such as the Ford Escape and the Subaru Forester.