Toyota Rav4

Toyota RAV4

Toyota fired the gun that set off the electric car revolution some years back with the Prius and they have been developing a range of Hybrid (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) vehicles ever since. One such is the very smart RAV4, a medium-sized sport utility vehicle (SUV) that in hybrid form emits less emissions than a small conventional city car.

The Exterior

The Hybrid RAV4 uses petrol in the normal way, but there’s also an electric motor to share the load and cut fuel consumption. The PHEV variant meanwhile can go further on electricity only, thanks to the larger battery pack; up to forty-six miles in fact, the petrol engine kicking in as required. There are a few small physical differences between the two cars, for example, the PHEV loses a little luggage space because of the aforementioned larger battery pack.

The exterior look is very individual and strikingly modern. It looks solid with the prominent Toyota badge sitting over the smart grille, the front seeming to be one piece that extends from the front of the vehicle along the sides to the rear. The bonnet (hood) is set lower than on previous models for a better driver’s eye view. It is a proper SUV. At the front the emphasis is on width and strength and there is a similar effect at the rear where the horizontal line created by the tail lights and the back window angles sharply downwards at each edge, drawing the eye towards the rear wheels. On new orders, a panoramic roof and roof rails are available optionally on some trim levels.

Two wheel and all-wheel drive (AWD) is available, model dependent, the latter having been comprehensively improved, say the Japanese manufacturers, to achieve a ‘drive on any road’ capability. The RAV4 Hybrid’s electric AWD-i system has been re-engineered to provide a much stronger performance in challenging conditions and secure handling on slippery surfaces.

The Interior

The cabin is characterised by typical Toyota quality throughout with a precision finish, the seats being particularly attractive. Soft-touch surfaces cover the dashboard and door panels. The switchgear features cleanly integrated buttons and surprisingly tactile controls, such as the button/dial to adjust the air conditioning. The centrepiece of the dashboard is an 8” screen (9” on the PHEV) below which the centre console cascades down in a conventional way, all controls being to hand, supplemented by the multi-function steering wheel. The boot (trunk) is bigger than many alternatives, storage spaces abound throughout and leather features at flagship level.

This is a large SUV which reflects in a slightly wider interior which in turn gives up to five passengers breathing space in the light and airy cabin. Additionally, the Plug-in Hybrid features sound insulation around the front end and front side windows thanks to double-glazed 'acoustic glass'. This is a luxury touch for a mainstream car, reducing the amount of wind and ambient noise. ‘Dynamic’ trim level adds sports-style seats, a black headlining and blue trim accents to further emphasise the car’s distinctive quality, and there are optional accessories for personalisation.

Like many vehicles these days, the RAV4 is built for comfort rather than speed and this stays consistent across the range, the ride is as good at entry-level as it is on the range-topping model. It’s a

composed ride that handles most surfaces well. Against the industry flow, Toyota don’t offer wheels bigger than 19” on the basis that the 17” to 19” standard alloys with fatter tyres allows for greater absorption over bumps.

Driving The Toyota RAV4

The plug-in hybrid version of the RAV4 is fast and, driven appropriately, has an all-electric range which is better than most PHEV rivals, so fuel economy should be impressive. The engine is the same in both variants, the 2.5 litre hybrid engine is a completely new unit that delivers a better balance between fuel economy and power, we learn. Drive is through a continuously variable transmission (CVT); a type of gearbox growing in popularity that aids economy.

All models are very well equipped as standard with the Toyota ‘Safety Sense’ system and few of the now expected safety features are omitted, those that are being optionally available on new orders. Don’t be expecting sporting handling; the overall drive on mixed roads is safe and competent, the nature of the car putting more emphasis on urban driving and motorway cruising. The suspension is soft for this reason and the car is thus more suited to a leisurely pace which just feels right in a hybrid SUV with incredibly light steering.

Should You Buy One?

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is light and modern to drive. The brand has a good reputation for reliability and build quality is excellent. The Plug-in version, thanks to its electric-only range is great around town but both models satisfy when the need is for a good-sized family car with that extra bit of all-round ability. New and used, buyers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and elsewhere should get in touch to find out more about MHH International current stock.