Launching in the US this year, the RAV4 Hybrid will be Toyota’s eight Hybrid vehicle in its fleet, targeted towards young adventure-seeking couples looking for a vehicle that provides utility, versatility, capability and excellent fuel efficiency.
The RAV4 Hybrid will be offered in two premium grades: XLE and Limited. Both grades will be equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWD-i). Also available will be unique 17-inch alloy wheels and six exterior colors.
The conventional gas version RAV4 will come in four grades: LE, XLE, Limited and the new SE. Together with the new Hybrid XLE and Limited, all 2016 RAV4 models will feature refreshed exterior styling, providing a sleeker, more dynamic appearance. It starts with a new, stronger looking front fascia with an available LED trifecta (Headlights, Daytime Running Lights and Hi-Lo Headlights). The new styling extends along the lower rocker panel to the rear bumper for a flowing visual appeal. A new rear bumper and lift gate with available LED taillights add a premium touch. Additional new exterior features include front and rear silver skid plate garnishes on most models and a standard shark fin antenna. An all-new wheel lineup and three new exterior paint colors round out the exterior design.
Toyota listened to customer feedback and added more refinement and technology to the interior. New features include a 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display, a 7-inch touch-sensitive display audio touch screen, leather steering wheel, additional USB added to front and one 12V power outlet added to rear, new interior colors. Additional technologies include front and rear parking sonar, Smart Key, and a Homelink® garage door opener.
RAV4 will also offer a new Bird’s Eye View Monitor. This Toyota-first technology utilizes four cameras that are mounted on the front, side mirrors and rear of the vehicle to give the driver a panoramic view of their surroundings. The system offers drivers assistance when parallel parking, and when pulling in and out of parking spaces. The Bird’s Eye View Monitor system also has an industry-first feature called Perimeter Scan, that gives drivers a live rotating 360 degree view of what is around the vehicle, helping them see objects that could be in the way.
The new SE grade features a sport-tuned suspension, providing a more dynamic and responsive driving experience. The SE also adds premium convenience features and performance styling cues, inside and out. Additional equipment and sporty design cues unique to the SE include 18-inch Alloy Wheels, LED Headlights and taillights, SofTex Seats with power driver’s seat and contrast stitching, two interior colors (Black and Black/Tan) and paddle shifters.
The SE will also include an S-Code paint design consisting of three available upper exterior colors mated to a Classic Silver Metallic on the lower trim of the vehicle.
The RAV4 started the small SUV segment craze 20 years ago. Years later, Toyota introduced hybrids, raising the bar for high MPG at an affordable price. Each has helped change the automotive landscape. The arrival of the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid will be a natural fit for young buyers seeking the winning combination of affordable SUV utility and the high MPG of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive.
