Toyota RAV4: Cutting Edge? Not This Time Introduced on Wednesday: 2013 Toyota RAV4 What it is: This is the world premiere of the fourth-generation RAV4, which was introduced in the United States in the mid-1990s. It was among the first "cute-ute" compact crossovers at the time, although these days it's leaning more toward "anti-climactic-ute." What it isn't: Repeat, it's not a Toyota Highlander, although it's easy to wonder whether the new RAV4 has been sheep-dipped and is poised to take over the identity, purpose and sales of its barely bigger brethren. What makes it tick: There's no longer a V-6 engine available - "the Highlander is for more power," said Bill Fay, the Toyota Division Group vice president and general manager. The RAV4's 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder is paired with a new 6-speed transmission. Both front- and all-wheel drive will be offered; the A.W.D. will have dynamic torque control for improved traction. There will also be two driving modes, Sport and Eco. The estimated fuel economy is 24 miles per gallon in the city and 31 highway, with all-wheel-drive models at 22/29. How much, how soon? It arrives in dealerships in January. Pricing shouldn't change too drastically from the outgoing model, still hovering around $22,000 to start. Our take: Redesigns are hotly anticipated for taking surprising risks in the style department that make the competition sweat. Less exciting is when they are safe, like what Toyota did with the redesigned RAV4: inflating a Camry and calling it a day. Unless you call moving the signature rear-mounted spare tire to underneath the cargo area cutting edge.