When Toyota launched the first RAV4 over three decades ago, it pioneered a brand-new segment – the compact crossover SUV – which has since grown into the country’s most popular segment. So, perhaps it’s not surprising that the sixth generation of the RAV4 is similarly leading the way, with Toyota bucking the trend by making the somewhat unconventional decision to make a hybrid derivative the cheapest in the lineup.
With the new, sixth-generation RAV4, Toyota offers, for the first time, a hybrid vehicle as the entry point to a new vehicle range. This reflects Toyota’s commitment to moving towards electrification, but in a more accessible, customer-centric way. So much so, that four of the five new cars come with hybrid engines – two standard hybrids, a performance-inspired hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. But, there is a dyed-in-the-wool ICE model, too, for die-hard petrol fans.
Whatever customers’ powertrain of choice, it is likely that the sixth-generation RAV4 will be as warmly welcomed as its predecessors were – all 15 million of them sold worldwide since 1994 (making the RAV4 one of the world’s best-selling SUVs).
This is due to its winning formula of reliability and efficiency mixed with a healthy dose of versatility and a whole heap of adventure. And now, the sixth generation comes with advanced technology, increased connectivity, and an eye-catching new design.
FRESH LOOK, SMARTER CABIN
A cat-eye headlamp design combined with a bold hexagonal lower front bumper, and sharp rear lighting elements that extend from the taillights and across the boot to frame the RAV4 badging boldly announce the RAV4’s presence, whether you see it coming or going. Flared wheel arches, sculptural contour lines and a wide stance emphasise its capability.
Inside, a clean, uncluttered, and premium-looking layout makes the cabin a calm and comfortable place to while away many hours on a road trip or just the daily school run.
Toyota’s latest-generation multimedia platform (accessed via a 10.5″ or 12.9″ touchscreen, depending on the model) is easy to use and now features faster processing, enhanced graphics, wireless smartphone integration, and customisable widgets.
In another pioneering move, the RAV4 is the first local Toyota with Toyota Sense 4.0, an enhanced suite of active and passive safety systems, including Driver Monitor System, Adaptive High Beam System, Emergency Steering Assist, and Intersection Collision Avoidance. Dependent on the grade, customers can also look forward to blind-spot monitoring, Intelligent Park Assist, and a driver-monitoring camera.
POWERTRAIN FOR EVERY TASTE
New RAV4 offers its most diverse lineup yet. A 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (127 kW and 203 Nm) powers the only ICE option in the range, the 2.0 VX, which comes with leather upholstery, a moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, and a head-up display as standard.
The 2.5-litre hybrid-electric derivatives (2.5 HEV GX, 2.5 HEV VX, and 2.5 HEV GR-S) boast Toyota’s latest hybrid technology, without compromising on power, with 137 kW and 221 Nm, with a total system output of 163 kW.
The standard spec on the entry-level 2.5 HEV GX includes 18” alloy wheels, black roof rails, and a 10.5” multimedia display. The VX ups the ante with a panoramic roof, digital rear-view mirror, shift-by-wire technology, and enhanced convenience systems. The RAV4 GR-S is the first-ever GR-S version of a RAV4. Its sporty enhancements include a unique mesh grille, striking 20” alloy wheels with red brake callipers, as well as recalibrated suspension and steering systems for greater precision and feedback.
The top-of-the-range RAV4 2.5 PHEV is Toyota’s most advanced electrified SUV technology currently available in SA. Its 25.4 kWh battery delivers a claimed electric driving range of 142 km, with a combined system output of 225 kW. For added convenience, it supports multiple charging solutions. As befitting its top-tier status, it also comes with shift-by-wire technology, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated seating, a panoramic roof, a kick-sensor power tailgate, and distinctive 20” black alloy wheels.
LAST WORD
The new RAV4 is by no means a cheap option, but it is a worthy investment in a superb vehicle that retains its past strengths while embracing new technology. The RAV4’s 15 million buyers were not wrong in the past, and should you be part of the next wave of RAV4 converts, you’ll feel very right about your decision, too.
Report by NICKY FURNISS | Images © TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA MOTORS
