The fourth-generation model of the car that started the compact SUV market has been unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Launched in 1994, the original three-door model – its name standing for Recreational Active Vehicle 4-wheel drive – was quite different from traditional 4x4s, being conceived as an “urban” all-wheel drive vehicle with a monocoque chassis rather than body-on-frame construction, and independent suspension.
Since the launch of that original car, the three generations of RAV4 have amassed more than 4.5 million sales in more than 150 countries worldwide. European markets have accounted for more than 1.2 million of that total, with sales in the UK surpassing 155,000 units by the end of last year.
To strengthen its appeal in these respects, the new RAV4 builds on the core values of its predecessors, while introducing distinctive new styling, a premium quality interior, stronger and more rewarding dynamic performance and more fuel-efficient powertrains.
The new RAV4 is longer (+205mm over SWB model without rear wheel carrier) and wider (+30mm) but lower (-25mm) than its predecessor, and presents a new silhouette that expresses its versatility, roominess and improved dynamic capabilities.
The new RAV4’s cabin is spacious, comfortable and provides the driver with a cockpit-like position at the wheel. It extends the practicality of its predecessors by offering more room, higher quality finishes and a more focused and engaging driving experience. To give the driver a better forward view, the front pillars have been moved further outwards, increasing the field of vision from the wheel by three degrees. The pillars are thinner, too, with an eight per cent narrower cross-section.
For European markets there is a choice of a 149bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine, a new 122bhp 2.0-litre diesel and a 148bhp 2.2-litre diesel. Each one gives improved CO2 emissions performance, on average better by 12 per cent across the range. Of special note is the performance of the 2.0 diesel front-wheel drive RAV4. Equipped with Toyota’s Stop & Start technology this produces just 127g/km of CO2.
As well as providing a more comfortable and focused driving position, the new RAV4 builds on its SUV attributes with retuned suspension, revised electric power steering and an Integrated Dynamic Drive System that comes with a new Sport mode.
Down-hill Assist and Hill-start Assist Control are also available. Down-hill Assist is featured on all models equipped with automatic transmission and is particularly helpful when driving in icy conditions or snow; it automatically controls gear selection, engine speed and the ABS’s individual wheel braking to help the driver keep skid-free control of the vehicle on slippery descents.
Last updated: Friday, 30th Nov 2012, 11:59