Toyota brings out all-new RAV4

Customers choosing the 2.2-litre D-4D diesel engine for their RAV4 have, until now, only had the option of a manual box and the GX trim grade. Now this unit has also been made available with the new six-speed auto box and the higher-spec VX trim for 2014.

Other changes across the range include a new touch-screen multimedia system (standard equipment) as well as new 18-inch multi-spoke alloys, available exclusively on the 2.5 VX variant.

The upgraded multimedia system comes with ergonomically-enhanced controls and a new high-resolution screen that uses four times as many pixels as the original system, for brighter, sharper images. The package includes Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls; a rear-view camera (VX models); vehicle information, including trip data, climate control profile; and management of settings for door locking and lighting.It also enables simple connection of iPods and MP3 players via USB or Bluetooth. Audio system options, such as the radio and CD player, can also be controlled using the screen.

Commenting on the expanded and enhanced range, Toyota SA Vice President of Marketing, Glenn Crompton, said: “Toyota’s commitment to make ongoing improvements coupled with enthusiastic customer demand, motivated us to bring this additional model and these latest features to the market now, rather than waiting for a more typical upgrade timing.”

RAV4 is offered with three four-cylinder engines, starting with a 107kW 2.0-litre petrol for the two-wheel drive (2WD) variants.

All-wheel drive (AWD) versions can be specified with a 110 kW, 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers a stonking 340Nm of torque, or a 132 kW, 2.5-litre petrol powerplant.

The 2WD RAV4 is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox or Toyota’s Multidrive S automatic transmission that also provides drivers with a sporty, sequential seven-speed mode.

Petrol AWD variants are fitted with a six-speed multi-mode sequential-shift automatic while diesel AWD RAV4 comes with the choice of the six-speed manual or multi-mode automatic gearboxes.

RAV4 features Toyota’s advanced all-wheel drive technology, Dynamic Torque Control AWD.

Using information from various sensors (speed, steering angle and yaw rate), the system continuously controls the torque transfer between the front and rear wheels via an electromagnetically controlled coupling positioned in front of the rear differential.

Front-to-rear torque distribution can vary from 100:0 to 50:50, with front-wheel drive (100:0) automatically engaged under normal driving conditions to improve fuel consumption.

RAV4 uses a sophisticated, high-speed interactive management system to co-ordinate control of Dynamic Torque Control AWD, vehicle stability control and electric power steering systems to enhance performance, handling and safety under all driving conditions.

The RAV4’s trim levels (GX and VX) offer a generous sliding scale of kit. GX models are anything but spartan thanks to exterior features such as standard roof rails, 17″ alloys, and Daytime Running Lights (DRL). The only external differentiator between the 2.0-litre models and the 2.2 D-4D is the addition of integrated fog lamps for the latter.

Step up to the flagship VX trim and you gain a chrome insert in the front bumper, front and rear mud flaps, power retractable side mirrors, a moon roof with tilt and slide function, and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with cleaning system. As mentioned, the 2.5 VX now also comes with 18″ alloys as opposed to the 17″ wheels.

Move indoors and the high spec count continues. Standard fare on offer on the GX models includes power windows, remote central locking, manual climate control, touch-screen Multi Information Display, retractable tonneau cover with net barrier and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) to name just a few of the features.

The VX grade has full leather upholstery, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, front seat heaters, automatic dual-zone climate control, a reversing camera display, a powered tailgate with memory function, cruise control and a keyless entry system (Smart Entry).

The five-star rated RAV4 is equipped with a whiplash-injury-reducing seat design and seven airbags as standard, including a driver’s knee airbag and twin-chamber front seat side airbags.

Active safety systems include ABS with EBD, BA, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and TRC (Traction Control), while AWD models go even further with VSC+ which integrates VSC and the vehicle’s Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.

Pricing

RAV4 2.0P 2WD GX – R290 300

RAV4 2.0P 2WD GX Multidrive S – R300 300

RAV4 2.2D AWD GX – R365 300

RAV4 2.5P AWD VX 6AT – R412 400

RAV4 2.2D AWD VX 6AT – R438 900 (new model)

The new RAV4 has a three-year/100 000km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan. The new models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme which entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance.