International debut for Toyota RAV4

FOURTH generation of Toyota’s all-new compact SUV has made its world debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

Longer (+205 mm), wider (+30 mm) but lower (-25 mm) than its predecessor, the fourth generation of Toyota’s compact, versatile SUV showcases a new silhouette that emphasizes its versatility, roominess and improved dynamic capabilities.

The exterior combines the stylish signature elements of the new Toyota frontal design language with frill-free aesthetics and the muscular image of durability expected from a vehicle with its four-wheel drive credentials.

The new RAV4 will be available in a choice of nine body colours, including three new to the model range (as named by the company): Greyish Blue MM, Moss Green and Black MM. The international launch of the RAV4 is estimated for next summer, with a base price of €18,000.

Combining a spacious, comfortable cabin with a cockpit-like driver’s environment, the interior design build’s on the RAV4’s inherent practicality with greater roominess, higher quality finishes and a more focused, engaging SUV driving experience.

The Western European powertrain line up now comprises a 151 DIN hp 2.0 litre petrol engine, a new 124 DIN hp 2.0 litre diesel, and a 150 DIN hp 2.2 litre D-4D diesel engine. Every engine in this new line-up benefits from reductions in CO2 emissions, averaging some 12 per cent across the powerplant range.

Of particular note, the 2.0 litre diesel, front-wheel drive derivative new to the RAV4 range is equipped with Toyota’s Stop & Start technology, reducing CO2 emission to 127 g/km.

Together with a new, more comfortable driving position, the new RAV4 builds on its traditional SUV attributes with retuned front and rear suspension systems, revised Electric Power Steering, and a New Integrated Dynamic Drive System with all-new Sport mode function.

With a new, high rigidity, multi-path impact load body designed to provide optimum occupant and pedestrian impact protection, the new RAV4 has been engineered to achieve a 5-Star rating in the gruelling, 2013 Euro NCAP crash test programme.

The new Toyota SUV is equipped with an anti-whiplash seat design, and seven airbags are fitted as standard, including a driver’s knee airbag and twin-chamber front seat side airbags.