2017 Toyota RAV4 LE Package $18,990

Like many such compact crossovers, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 is available with all-wheel drive. However, we give the nod to the front-wheel-drive variant unless you live in a frequently slick region or other such limited-traction environments. We recommend going for the XLE trim level, which offers a nice bump in equipment (such as improved seats and dual-zone climate control) over the base LE. We also prefer the XLE's 17-inch wheels to the less forgiving 18-inch wheels and tires found on the uplevel Limited trim. Overall performance is quite good in the RAV4. It handles as well as most competitors and only trails the turbocharged entries in the class when it comes to acceleration. The RAV4 was modestly refreshed in 2016 with updated exterior styling and redesigned cabin. The RAV4 comes in LE, XLE, SE, Limited and Platinum trim levels. All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and all are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (176 horsepower, 172 pound-feet of torque) and a six-speed automatic transmission. Accordingly, the decision on which trim level is right for you comes down to creature comforts rather than mechanical fortitude. The LE has a decent array of standard equipment, but most shoppers will want to set their sights on the XLE and up. The XLE grants you dual-zone climate control, improved seat contours, the enhanced Entune multimedia system and 17-inch aluminum wheels.