ONE OF THE MOST popular medium-sized SUVs on the market (once, it was classed as “small” but it has grown over the years) is the Toyota RAV4. Since launching in 1994, more than 300,000 have been sold here, and global sales have passed an amazing 8.5 million units.
The new fifth-generation model comes with the option of 2WD, or mechanical or electric AWD systems, and a choice of two new petrol engines or the Toyota Hybrid System.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing, Sean Hanley said the new RAV4 takes the SUV essence to a new level.
“With class leading safety features, distinctive and dynamic styling, a spacious and flexible premium interior, and agile driving characteristics, the all-new RAV4 delivers outstanding passenger car-like refinement, handling and ride comfort,” Mr Hanley said.
“As the first hybrid RAV4 for Australia, it will help drive our ongoing push to offer customers proven technology that delivers strong performance, outstanding fuel consumption and low levels of CO2 emissions.”
“Toyota has consistently offered its ground-breaking hybrid powertrains in a variety of models since it was first introduced to Australia in the Prius 18 years ago and this latest generation technology is ideally suited to the new RAV4.”
“At the same time, the RAV4’s all-new powertrains and off-tarmac capability and performance, provided by innovative mechanical and electric all-wheel drive systems, make it the ideal SUV whether your journey takes you across town or out of the city for an active weekend away,” he said.
The new RAV4 is available in a choice of 11 variants across four grades with three powertrains – two petrol and the petrol-electric Toyota Hybrid System – and the option of front-wheel drive (2WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
Priced from $30,640 (plus ORC), the line-up starts with 2WD petrol variants available in GX, mid-range GXL and top-of the-line Cruiser grades.
These are all powered by a new 127kW/203Nm 2.0-litre, direct injection, four-cylinder engine that drives through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a launch gear mechanism.
GX variants are offered with the option of an intelligent six-speed manual gearbox with a rev-matching function.
The new RAV4 further extends the availability of the powerful and efficient hybrid system within the broader Toyota range with six RAV4 hybrid variants offered in 2WD and AWD versions across the GX, GXL and Cruiser grades.
The hybrid system combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor generator that drives through a CVT, providing the most powerful drivetrain in the range with combined maximum outputs of 160kW for 2WD variants and 163kW for AWD versions.
It is also the most efficient with a combined cycle fuel consumption of just 4.7L/100km for 2WD variants and 4.8L/100km for AWD versions.
RAV4 hybrid electric AWD variants gain an additional rear motor generator to provide power to the rear axle for the innovative electric AWD system. Complete with a Trail mode, it enables up to 80 percent of the total drive torque to be delivered through the rear wheels.
Topping the new RAV4 range is the Edge AWD variant powered by a new 152kW/243Nm 2.5-litre petrol engine that drives through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Edge variant uses a mechanical AWD system that is able to deliver a front/rear torque split of between 100 per cent to the front wheels and an even 50:50 split across front and rear wheels.
A dynamic torque-vectoring system can also independently control the amount of drive torque delivered to the left or right rear wheels depending on the road surface conditions.
The AWD system in the Edge grade also features a multi-terrain select system that offers different modes for mud & sand, rock & dirt and snow environments.
Shorter, lower, wider and tougher
From a design perspective, the new RAV4 gets a more rugged style with unique front and side body enhancements and interior treatments and trim.
Wheels choices are 17-inch,18-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Underpinning the slightly shorter, lower and wider body is the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform that features a 30mm longer wheelbase and wider track, that has been extended by between 25mm and 55mm.
This, together with a revised front MacPherson strut and new multilink rear suspension, gives the new RAV4 substantially improved driving dynamics and improved ride comfort, both on and off the tarmac.
More premium interior
A high level of refinement is evident in the larger cabin with premium materials and a stylish and functional design.
All-new comfortable and supportive seats are finished in cloth, leather-accented or imitation leather “Softex” material, depending on the grade.
For comfort and convenience, all variants except the entry-level GX petrol 2WD feature dual-zone climate control and keyless smart start.
The advanced multimedia system with steering wheel controls incorporates full Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM/DAB+ radio, satellite navigation and voice recognition with all information displayed on a large 8-inch touchscreen.
The rear load space has been extended by 65mm offering an increase in luggage capacity of up to a class-leading 580 litres compared with the previous model and features a clever two-level reversible floor for added functionality (not available with full-size spare wheel option).
The new RAV4 comes complete with the standard Toyota Safety Sense suite of features, including active cruise control, pre-collision safety system with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert, road-sign assist (speed sign only) and auto high beam.
Seven airbags, front and rear parking sensors, blind spot monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, reversing camera, and ABS with vehicle stability control and active cornering assist, add to the new RAV4’s safety credentials.
Once we’ve had the chance to spend time in the new RAV4, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive test with full specifications, and everything the over-50 driver needs to know
NEW RAV4 PRICING
| GX Petrol 2WD manual | $30,640 |
| GX Petrol 2WD CVT | $32,640 |
| GXL Petrol 2WD CVT | $35,640 |
| Cruiser Petrol 2WD CVT | $39,140 |
| GX Hybrid 2WD CVT | $35,140 |
| GXL Hybrid 2WD CVT | $38,140 |
| Cruiser Hybrid 2WD CVT | $41,640 |
| GX Hybrid AWD CVT | $38,140 |
| GXL Hybrid AWD CVT | $41,140 |
| Cruiser Hybrid AWD CVT | $44,640 |
| Edge Petrol AWD Auto | $47,140 |