TOYOTA’S POPULAR RAV4 SUV has grown over the years. What was once a small SUV now sits comfortably in the mid-size category, but still attracts plenty of buyers.
Now it’s been upgraded to include Toyota Connected Services functionality, Toyota’s latest multimedia system and new, intelligent active safety features.
Arriving in local showrooms in December priced from $36,550 plus on-road costs, headlining the updated RAV4 is Toyota’s latest-generation multimedia system that debuted on the all-new Corolla Cross compact SUV, along with an increase in touchscreen display size on certain variants.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the upgraded RAV4 offered customers the latest multimedia and safety technologies to keep them connected on the road and provide greater peace of mind.
“With a new-generation multimedia system, expanded Toyota Connected Services and additional safety features, the RAV4 has never been more appealing,” Mr Hanley said.
“With a broad range of variants and the choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains, RAV4 is set to continue as one of Australia’s most popular SUVs.”
The new-look multimedia system offers improved functionality with a series of shortcut buttons along the driver’s side of the screen, paired with two panels offering a wealth of information in an easy-to-digest format, similar to that of a smartphone or tablet.
Furthermore, the new multimedia system now supports wireless Apple CarPlay in addition to wired Android Auto.
On GX and GXL grades, the multimedia system is projected on to a new touchscreen display that matches the 8.0-inch size of previous versions, while the XSE, Cruiser and Edge step up to an expansive 10.5-inch display.
Working in combination with the multimedia upgrade is an improved multi-information display, growing from 4.2 to 7.0 inches on GX and GXL, while the XSE, Cruiser and Edge gain a full-width 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display.
The new system brings a high level of customisation in particular with the 12.3-inch version, where customers can choose from four different visual designs and three layouts to suit their preferences.
All 12.3-inch arrangements show a digital speedometer and shift indicator in the centre of the meter, with frequently used information such as active safety functions shown below.
The left and right sides can be adjusted to show a range of information such as fuel consumption and audio playback.
All updated RAV4 variants gain Toyota Connected Services functionality, bringing a range of valuable safety and connectivity features for owners.
Using an inbuilt data communication module (DCM), Connected Services offers remote vehicle monitoring, assistance in the event of an emergency and the ability to update vehicle software over-the-air.
A wealth of vehicle information can be accessed through the myToyota Connect smartphone app, including whether the doors and windows are locked and closed, remaining range and fuel level and vehicle location, with notifications able to tell owners if the user forgets a certain vehicle operation.
Connected Services will automatically send a notification to emergency services if an on-road collision is detected, while an SOS button can also manually trigger a call with emergency services. The vehicle location services can also be used by authorities to help find the vehicle in the event it is stolen.
Over-the-air software updates allow owners to remotely update to the latest version of software and supports dealers in fixing any issues.
All RAV4 grades now gain cloud-based satellite navigation, meaning the optional navigation previously offered on GX hybrid will be discontinued. XSE grades and up offer new-look embedded satellite navigation through the 10.5-inch touchscreen display.
Intelligent new active safety features have been added to the RAV4 range, including an expansion of the pre-collision system that bolsters occupant and road-user protection at intersections.
The intersection turn assistance function can detect oncoming vehicles when turning right at an intersection as well as oncoming pedestrians on either side of the intersection, providing audible warnings and automatic braking if required.
Emergency steering assist has been added to help the driver safely execute an evasive steering manoeuvre by aiming to keep the vehicle within its own lane while safely avoiding the impending obstacle.
An upgraded back guide monitor with dynamic guide lines has been adopted across the range, with a digital rear camera offering greatly improved image resolution.
The panoramic view monitor offered on Cruiser and Edge has been upgraded to now include an underfloor view showing a transparent image of the vehicle superimposed over composite images of the terrain underneath the vehicle.
Operation of the RAV4’s powered tailgate has been improved, with a faster operation that cuts opening time by 1.7 seconds and closing time by 2.8 seconds for enhanced convenience.
All interior USB Type-A ports bar one have been changed to USB-C ports, while all switches and displays now feature white lighting. Two upgraded microphones have been installed in the ceiling to improve the system’s natural voice recognition function.
Petrol Edge variants add LED projector headlamps, helping to improve night-time on-road visibility.
Nine exterior colours are available on the RAV4, with Frosted White replacing Crystal Pearl.
Toyota RAV4 pricing
| GX 2WD petrol | $36,550 |
| GX 2WD hybrid | $39,050 |
| GX AWD hybrid | $42,050 |
| GXL 2WD petrol | $40,100 |
| GXL 2WD hybrid | $42,600 |
| GXL AWD hybrid | $45,600 |
| XSE 2WD hybrid | $45,700 |
| XSE AWD hybrid | $48,700 |
| Cruiser 2WD petrol | $45,700 |
| Cruiser 2WD hybrid | $48,200 |
| Cruiser AWD hybrid | $51,200 |
| Edge AWD petrol | $53,020 |
| Edge AWD hybrid | $55,150 |