Toyota GB’s fifth generation RAV4 SUV will be sold only as a “self-charging full hybrid” model, as the distributor now likes to call its non-PHEV hybrids.
Previous models were also offered with petrol and diesel engines.
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It will introduce the new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) 2.5-litre powertrain with maximum output of 215bhp in 2WD models with CO2 emissions of 102g/km. Four wheel drive versions have 219bhp with 103g/km emissions.
This is the first RAV4 on the TNGA platform, enabling a design that reduces the vehicle’s overall height and the height of the bonnet, while improving passenger accommodation and load space within a longer wheelbase. The TNGA chassis also makes a big contribution to handling, comfort and stability, with a lower centre of gravity and substantial increase in body rigidity, TGB said.
The new Hybrid AWD-i (available on Design, Excel and Dynamic models) powertrain is an intelligent all wheel drive system with much greater capability than that featured in the current RAV4 Hybrid, both for on and off-road driving. As an electric-powered system, it is lighter and more compact than mechanical all wheel drive, yet can achieve the same level of torque output.
Drive torque is automatically directed to the rear axle when pulling away, or when low-grip conditions are detected. The driver can also select a new Trail function that ensures torque is directed only to the wheels with grip, helping keep the vehicle on the move if one wheel loses contact with the ground when driving over challenging terrain.
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By GlobalDataOrder books opened on 3 December with the official start of sales and deliveries of front-wheel drive models from 1 April next year; all-wheel drive versions will follow from May.
The UK RAV4 is available in four equipment grades, Icon, Design, Dynamic and Excel.
All versions have 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlights, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, push-button start, roof rails, parabola LED headlights, rear privacy glass, electronic parking brake, power-adjustable heated door mirrors with auto-folding function, Toyota Touch 2 with eight-inch multimedia touchscreen, seven inch colour TFT driver’s multi-information display, DAB (digital radio), Toyota Safety Sense 2, E-Call and rear view camera.
All models are equipped with the second generation of Toyota Safety Sense. Significant upgrades have been made to some of the systems in the package, notably with the Pre-Collision System now able to detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path during both day and night time driving, and cyclists during daylight hours.
The Adaptive Cruise Control has improved deceleration and acceleration control, keeping the RAV4 a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Now a full-speed system, the ACC has a new low-speed function for driving in stop-start traffic, bringing the car to a halt when the vehicle in front stops. Other systems include Lane Departure Alert and Lane Trace Assist, to help keep the vehicle positioned within its traffic lane, Road Sign Assist and Automatic High Beam.
Other advanced safety features include a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (Excel and Design grades) for safe manoeuvring, and an E-Call service on all models that can automatically alert the emergency services to the vehicle’s location in the event of an accident – triggered when the airbags are deployed.
Prices start at GBP29,635 and range up to GBP36,640.
