Toyota South Africa Motors has introduced the sixth generation Toyota RAV4 to the local market. First launched in 1994, the RAV4 was one of the pioneers of the crossover SUV. More than 15 million units have been sold globally since its introduction, and the latest model brings a wider range of powertrain options, updated technology and a redesigned interior and exterior.
What is it?
The new RAV4 remains Toyota's flagship urban lifestyle SUV and sits in the highly competitive medium SUV segment. It is an all new generation model developed on an updated version of Toyota's TNGA K platform. For the first time in South Africa, the range includes petrol, hybrid and plug in hybrid derivatives. The line up has also been expanded with the introduction of the first RAV4 GR Sport model.
Engines:
The entry point to the range is a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 127kW and 203Nm. Buyers wanting electrification can opt for the 2.5-litre hybrid system, which develops 137kW and 221Nm from the petrol engine, with a combined system output of 163kW.
At the top of the range is the 2.5-litre plug in hybrid. Equipped with a 25.4 kWh lithium ion battery, the system delivers a total output of 225kW. Toyota claims an electric driving range of up to 142km under test conditions. The plug in hybrid supports both AC and DC charging and is supplied with charging cables and an AC wallbox charger.
Interior:
The cabin has been completely redesigned around what Toyota calls a Digital Island layout. Every model features a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster, while infotainment screens range from 10.5-inches to 12.9-inches depending on specification.
Wireless smartphone connectivity and wireless charging are standard across the range. Higher specification models add features such as JBL audio, a digital rear view mirror, memory seats, heated and ventilated seats and panoramic roof options. Toyota has also introduced its latest Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite, which includes features such as Road Sign Assist, Emergency Steering Assist and Intersection Collision Avoidance.
Exterior:
The exterior adopts a more angular and rugged appearance while retaining the familiar RAV4 proportions. Up front, the SUV features a large hexagonal lower bumper, hammerhead inspired styling elements and new LED lighting signatures.
Pronounced wheel arches, sculpted bodywork and strong shoulder lines reinforce its SUV character. At the rear, slim lighting elements stretch across the tailgate and frame the prominent RAV4 badging. Cargo capacity has increased by four per cent compared with the previous model, while wheel sizes range up to 20-inches on selected derivatives.
Different models:
The RAV4 2.5 HEV GX serves as the entry point to the range and includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, dual zone climate control, a power tailgate, wireless charging and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0.
The RAV4 2.0 VX adds leather upholstery, a moonroof, rain sensing wipers, a head up display, a 12.9-inch infotainment screen and JBL audio while retaining the naturally aspirated petrol engine.
The RAV4 2.5 HEV VX builds on the VX specification with the addition of the hybrid powertrain, panoramic roof, digital rear view mirror, heated and ventilated seats, memory seat functionality and shift by wire technology.
The RAV4 2.5 HEV GR S introduces a sportier character with unique styling elements, 20-inch alloy wheels, GR specific suspension tuning, a lowered ride height and model specific interior details.
The flagship RAV4 2.5 PHEV combines the plug in hybrid powertrain with features such as a heated steering wheel, memory seats, panoramic roof, kick sensor powered tailgate and black 20-inch alloy wheels.
Price and warranty:
RAV4 2.5 HEV GX (R770 500), RAV4 2.0 VX (R799 900), RAV4 2.5 HEV VX (R927 800), RAV4 2.5 HEV GR S (R941 800) and the RAV4 2.5 PHEV (R1 043 900) tops the line up.
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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
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