This was the first compact crossover SUV;[1] it made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994,[2] and in North America in 1995, being launched in January 1996.[3] 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 fuel economy of a compact car. Although not all RAV4 models are four-wheel drive, RAV4 originally stood for "Recreational Activity Vehicle: 4-wheel drive", this has been changed to "Robust Accurate Vehicle: 4-wheel drive",[4] because the aforementioned equipment is an option in select countries.[5]