RAV4 – Page 2 – Automobiles Review

2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV Offers Improved Dynamics and Safety

The next generation 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV made its official debut at last years Los Angeles Auto Show in November after being “teased” several times. Now it is time for this Toyota SUV to hit the market and offer to the customers great enhancements in terms of performance, handling and safety.

First of all, RAV4 comes with selectable Sport mode which delivers more dynamic, sporting drive experience. This is achieved by decreasing the power-steering assistance, sharpening the throttle response and adapting the automatic and CVT gearbox management for more responsive gearshifts.

In those models with featured AWD there is also available a new Dynamic Torque Control system. This one provides better stability and agility in any driving conditions – for instance wet or dry roads. In addition, the torque transfer to the rear wheels will now occur when the system detects understeer during cornering.

Next, the new RAV4 will also offer improved fuel efficiency thanks to the fact that the front-wheel drive is automatically engaged in normal driving conditions. The system uses information from speed, steering, throttle and yaw sensors to monitor and control torque transfer.

The Sport mode in the AWD models also activates torque transfer to the rear wheels from the moment the steering wheel is turned. This means that it automatically distributes 10 percent of torque to the rear wheels and will optimize torque transfer up to 50 per cent if actual understeer is detected.

What is also new here is the Eco mode which maximizes the fuel efficiency by regulating the engine’s output and air-conditioner’s operation. In terms of passive and active safety, the 2013 RAV4 steps in with highly rigid body that has been engineered to achieve a five-star NCAP safety rating.

Source: Toyota

January 22, 2013

2013 Toyota RAV4 at the Los Angeles Auto Show

Toyota has finally revealed the all-new 2013 RAV4 at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The SUV was introduced after a lot of leaks and it looks pretty amazing. This is Toyota’s fourth-generation RAV4, the world’s original crossover sport utility vehicle. It will hit the market in the beginning of the next year.

There are a lot of upgrades as well as completely new exterior, but some of the most interesting are a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, new 6-speed transmission, two-row seating for 5, and a host of available in-cabin technologies,

The new RAV4 offers a good balance of performance and all-around capability, including class-leading cargo capacity, striking design, class-leading 8 standard airbags, and a compelling array of standard extras.

2013 RAV4 will be available in three trim levels: LE, XLE and Limited.

The exterior boasts nice and sporty appearance with rounded front fascia, a slopping roofline and distinctive rear quarter windows. There is also a roof-hinged liftgate, which is expected to be more convenient than the previous side-hinged door.

As on other recently introduced Toyota models, RAV4 engineers paid special attention to aerodynamics, the most obvious detail being small vortex generators molded into the taillight cases and near the base of the A-pillars. Less obvious are the aerodynamic undertrays beneath the passenger cabin that help smooth and control airflow.

The interior boasts an interesting asymmetrical dashboard featuring ambient lighting, a lot of controls and a big 6.1” touchscreen display. There is also a multi-functioning three-spoke steering wheel. A lot of metallic accents and circular air vents give additional cosiness. The high-end trim levels come with leather seats, an Entune Infotainment system and an 11-speaker JBL GreenEdge premium audio system.

The new 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine is able to return 24 mpg in city and 31 mpg on highway with FWD and 22 mpg in city and 29 mpg on highway with the optional AWD system. The engine delivers 176HP (131 kW) and 233Nm (172 lb-ft) of torque.

The all-wheel drive system offers three different modes: Auto, Lock and Sport.

Like every Toyota, RAV4 will feature the Star Safety System, which includes Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Brake Assist, an Anti-lock Braking System and Smart Stop Technology.

So, this is 9 years of evolution… pretty good!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAKRdKBoaKc

2013 RAV4 SPECIFICATIONS:

POWERTRAIN
2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
Horsepower: 176 @ 6,000 RPM
Torque: 172 lb.-ft. @ 4,100 RPM
Transmission: Six-speed ECT-i
Drive System: Front- and All-Wheel-Drive

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length:             179.9
Overall Width:                 72.6
Overall Height:                65.4
Wheelbase:                   104.7
Ground clearance:         6.3
Wheels:                            17-inch steel wheels (LE)
17-inch alloy wheels (XLE)
18-inch alloy wheels (Limited)

Tire Size: 17-inch: 225/65R17 (LE and XLE)
18-inch: 235/55R18 (Limited)

Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs.

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches)
Head Room:                   39.8 (Front)
38.9 (Rear)
Leg Room:                      42.6 (Front)
37.2 (Rear)
Shoulder Room:              57.3 (Front)
55.4 (Rear)
Hip Room:                       54.3 (Front)
48.9 (Rear)
Cargo Volume:                73.3 (Behind first row)
38.4 (Behind second row)
Seating Capacity:           5

Source: Toyota

November 29, 2012

2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV Teased Ahead of Debut [VIDEO]

Teaser image and video of the new 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV has just been released ahead of the global premiere of the all-new fourth generation crossover at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

Although the image does not show much, we can firmly say that the new SUV has a completely redesigned exterior and definitely more striking and athletic stance. It is more than certain that Toyota is facing a new automotive era, where it will collaborate with other automakers and industries to adapt to new conditions.

The last RAV4 model was equipped with 2.5 four-cylinder engine or either a 3.5 V6 one. The latter generates 269 hp (198 kW). Even further, both engines were paired with a front-wheel drive. No details however have been released about the power output of the new model and we are definitely eager to know more!

httpv://youtu.be/JRldeNfoUrA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

November 16, 2012

2012 Toyota RAV4 EV Revealed

As promised, Toyota have unveiled the RAV4 EV. The event took place at the 26th Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles. The hopes are high as some expect it to be no less impressive than the current petrol RAV4 V6 in terms of “driving performance, dynamics and cargo capacity. That’s amibtious.

The drivetrain inside it can provide power for 160 km once every charge. After that, you find a 240V/40A charger and “brim it up” fir six hours. Pretty much all the bits underneath have been made by Tesla. It took both companies 22 months to achieve this but eventually, we end up with the “only all-electric SUV on the market”

The torquey electricity powers goes to the front wheels in two manners – Sport and Normal. While on the former, the RAV4 can go from 0 to 60 mph (96.6 km/h) in 7 seconds dead while the top speed climbs up to 160 km. A more leisurely way to drive up to the grocer’s can be the Normal mode – 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds and 137 km/h at best.

The maximum output of power has been estimated to be 115kW @ 2,800 rpm. The heavy battery pack buried deep down inside the car benefits the center of gravity while the electric motor purrs in a very serene way. Surrisingly, the RAV4 body is also slippery – a 0.30 drag coefficient is the very best among SUV’s apparently.

In terms of body design, there are some slight deviations from the standard look of the Toyota RAV4. The front bumper, upper and lower grille, side mirrors, rear spoiler and under body shape have all been restyled in favor of aerodynamics. Sales are expected to start somewhere around during the late summer of 2012. Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of Toyota in the United States, hopes that:

“…the RAV4 EV will attract sophisticated early technology adopters, much like the first-generation Prius,”

We’ll have to see about that.

Source: Toyota

May 8, 2012

Toyota Debut RAV4 EV at the 26th EVS

Scant pieces of news come forth from Toyota. An all new RAV4 EV is set to appear pretty soon. The venue intended for the debut couldn’t be more appropriate – the 26th International Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS26) in Los Angeles. A news conference should elaborate on this fact. That would be Monday, May 7 at noon in the West Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center.

That’s pretty much we know for now. To remind ourselves, two years ago, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Toyota did bring out prototypes of the supposed second generation of EV RAV4s. They were developed jointly with Tesla (Tesla were responsible for the power plant and batteries). The earliest of them all had a 660-pound lithium-ion battery pack with 50 kWh capacity in total. The estimated single charge range varied from 80 to 120 miles.

Hopefully, those figures will be now even more impressive as the EV still has to win over many admirers of petrol and diesel RAV4 which are completely satisfactory on their own.

More on this topic will surely be coming next week.

Source: Toyota

May 1, 2012

Prices For The Toyota RAV4 and Prius

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. have released their manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2012 RAV4 and the Prius Liftback. They will both hit the showrooms today and on the in January 2012 respectively.

Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 SUVs can be ordered in three different trim levels – RAV 4 (base), Sport and top-of-the-range Limited. Whatever the class, all vehicles can carry a 2.5 four-cylinder engine or a 3.5 V6 which develops 269 hp. Even further, either engine can be paired with a front-wheel drive or an electronic on-demand four-wheel drive. That makes a total of 12 possible combinations and thus 12 price listings. When compared to the old model, the RAV4 MY 2012 differs little in price which will preserve Toyota’s rock-solid image on the market – the base and Sport editions get an overall 0.7% increase while the Limited RAVs actually get a decrease in price by 0.5%. The cheapest of all is the 2.5 liter, front-wheel drive, 4 ratio automatic gearbox base model standing at $22,650 as the Limited V6 4WD model with a five-speed automatic transmission receives a price tag of $28,650.

All models include as standard equipment hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. RAVs from the Limited range get an extra Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™. Optional extras come in the form of a 6.1-inch touch-screen CD player with MP3/WMA compatibility, six speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio™ with iTunes ® Tagging, auxiliary audio jack, and USB port with iPod® connectivity and control.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius segment has managed to stay on top of it’s competition in terms of hybrid technology mainly because of the midsized Prius Liftback. Up until know it has been shipped to over a million environmentally conscious customers. And now the 2012 MY has received a minor update – revised front fascia and tail lights, freshly styled 15 inch wheel covers and LED Daytime Running Lights with an on/off function.

There will be four available trim grades in the U.S. (the Two, Three, Four and Five) all of which have overall increased MSRP listings with around 3.3%. with the cheapest one standing at $24 000 while the Prius Five $29 805. You still get your money’s worth though because whatever you choose, it will be packed full of technology.

All models come with a 6.1-inch Display Audio system including a USB port for iPod® connectivity and control, Bluetooth® with phone book access for hands-free calling and a more advanced Multi-Information Display. Owners of the previous Prius model will be able to recognize some carryover technology as well. There’s a Touch Tracer Display, driver door Smart Key with Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry, Star Safety System and an adjustable steering wheel with controls on it for the audio and climate systems as well as controls for the phone.

The Prius Three has its Display Audio system enhanced by the EntuneTM and Navigation pack. It also gets an integrated backup camera and three-door Smart Key.

The Prius Four implements a more powerful audio system consisting of eight JBL® GreenEdge™ speakers and an amplifier. SofTex-trimmed seats, headlamps with auto on/off feature and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar power support are also included.

As optional extras the Four and Five can be equipped with Toyota’s Premium HDD Navigation with EntuneTM and JBL®, which features an exclusive seven-inch touch-screen with split-screen capability. These two models are also the first of their kind to be offering a Head-up Display (HUD) which projects information such as speed, fuel etc. on the windscreen.

Here is the complete list of the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices in comparison to the previous 2011 model year counterparts:

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	4430	RAV4	Base 2WD 4AT	$22,475	$175	0.8%	$22,650
2012	4431	RAV4	Base V6 2WD 5AT	$24,510	$175	0.7%	$24,685
2012	4440	RAV4	Sport 2WD 4AT	$24,175	$175	0.7%	$24,350
2012	4441	RAV4	Sport V6 2WD 5AT	$26,105	$175	0.7%	$26,280
2012	4450	RAV4	Limited 2WD 4AT	$25,465	($135)	-0.5%	$25,330
2012	4451	RAV4	Limited V6 2WD 5AT	$27,385	($135)	-0.5%	$27,250
2012	4432	RAV4	Base 4WD 4AT	$23,875	$175	0.7%	$24,050
2012	4433	RAV4	Base V6 4WD 5AT	$25,910	$175	0.7%	$26,085
2012	4442	RAV4	Sport 4WD 4AT	$25,575	$175	0.7%	$25,750
2012	4443	RAV4	Sport V6 4WD 5AT	$27,505	$175	0.6%	$27,680
2012	4452	RAV4	Limited 4WD 4AT	$26,855	($135)	-0.5%	$26,720
2012	4453	RAV4	Limited V6 4WD 5AT	$28,785	($135)	-0.5%	$28,650

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	1221	Prius One (fleet only)	Five-door Liftback	$22,120	$895	4.0%	$23,015
2012	1223	Prius Two	Five-door Liftback	$23,520	$480	2.0%	$24,000
2012	1225	Prius Three	Five-door Liftback	$24,520	$1,045	4.3%	$25,565
2012	1227	Prius Four	Five-door Liftback	$27,320	$915	3.3%	$28,235
2012	1229	Prius Five	Five-door Liftback	$28,790	$1,015	3.5%	$29,805

*Prices do not include the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee on neither of the cars. The fee comes as an additional expense standing at $810 for the RAV and $760 for the Prius.

Source: Toyota

December 20, 2011

Toyota Aygo and Yaris bring highest satisfaction

Aygo and Yaris are the best value for money on the market. That shows the message from the results of this year’s J.D. Power and Associates/WhatCar? Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study (VOSS).

Both Toyotas achieved the top ranking in the VOSS City Car and Small Car categories. The full hybrid Prius was second ranked in the Upper Medium Car category. Verso and RAV4 has been the third-ranked MPV and SUV.

Toyota offers unrivalled fuel consumption, insurance and the cost of servicing, and repairs. The study was among owners of cars around two years old. (more…)

June 3, 2010

2010 Toyota RAV4 now offers better equipment at the same price

The compact recreational SUV – RAV4 is now proving its success with a new-look 2010 model. It also features higher equipment levels, revised line-up, better performance and last, but not least the fuel efficiency.

The 2.2 D-4D engine is offered with a new entry-point model in the range, with 2-wheel drive and six-speed manual gearbox. This engine is now available with the top-of-range XT-R trim combined with speed automatic transmission. The 2.0 liter petrol engine with Valvematic put the power on the road through Multidrive S CVT transmission. (more…)

May 13, 2010

Toyota introduces restyled 2010 RAV4

Toyota’s RAV4 gets a fresh new look for 2010, with a redesign that blends contemporary urban style with the durability for which Europe’s original recreational compact SUV is renowned.

Unveiled this week at the Geneva motor show, the 2010 RAV4 has an all-new front-end treatment that not only looks good, but is also more aerodynamically efficient. A wider grille, with horizontal bars and chrome accents displays the new Toyota family look that has been established on the latest Avensis, Verso and Auris models. The grille is flanked by new headlights, with projector-type low beam lamps. (more…)

March 3, 2010

Key highlights for Toyota at Geneva 2010

Hybrid Technology Development and Enhanced Product Appeal are the leading themes for Toyota’s presentation at the Geneva motor show, represented by a range of concept and production models that will be making their first appearance in Europe.

The occasion will mark the world-first appearance of the showroom-ready Auris HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive), a model which marks a major milestone in Toyota’s programme to introduce its full hybrid powertrain technology across its entire model range by the early 2020s. (more…)

February 16, 2010

Toyota Introduces Prius Plug-In Hybrid

Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan has today confirmed the introduction of the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, a plug-in version of the third-generation Prius petrol-electric hybrid vehicle.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) offers greater range on electric power only, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The PHV uses lithium-ion batteries – a first for Toyota – which can be charged from an external source as well as by the car’s own hybrid drive system.

Approximately 600 units will be introduced in Japan, the United States, and Europe over the first half of 2010. 20 will come to the UK in mid 2010.

The Prius PHVs will be leased to government ministries, local governments, corporations including electric power companies, universities and research agencies, for use in a demonstration programme aimed at collecting real-world driving data and spurring the development of battery-charging infrastructure. (more…)

December 15, 2009

2009 RAV4 With Toyota Optimal Drive

Fifteen years ago the original RAV4 created a new market segment for compact, fun-to-drive SUVs. Now it is ready to raise the bar higher with improved performance, lower emissions and even better fuel economy. Thanks to new and revised powertrains with Toyota Optimal Drive technology, the 2009 RAV4 becomes an even stronger proposition for owners looking for quality, driving pleasure and keen cost-of-ownership performance. (more…)

May 19, 2009

Tag: RAV4