Toyota RAV4 – Automobiles Review

Toyta celebrates the 13 millionth vehicle ensembly

2021 Toyota RAV4 A special RAV4 Hybrid rolls out of Toyota’s largest plant, Georgetown, Ky. Along with the vehicle’s striking exterior design and fine-tuned hybrid engine, the SUV also marks the 13^th million vehicles assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky.

The factory began production of the RAV4 Hybrid in January 2020 as the result of many investments by Toyota – these are also part of a larger commitment by the brand’s overall investment strategy in North America. Along with enhanced production, the goal is to reach 6,500 employers.

The Georgetown campus is the brand’s first in North America and is the realization of 8 billion dollars of investment and employs over 10,000 Kentuckians. This is also the home to an engine factory, which also scored a record by ensembling its 13 millionth engine.

2021 Toyota RAV4

Toyota remains the leader in alternatively powered vehicles and the goal is to have 40 per cent of new sales be electric by 2025. By 2030, expert make plans to increase this number to 70 per cent. Globally, this commitment would result in the avoidance of about 139 million tons of greenhouse gas into the atmosphere.

2021 Toyota RAV4

Toyota Kentucky also boosts STEM education and workforce development program across the Commonwealth. Funds will be invested for:

Rise STEM Academy for Girls
Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG)
Black Male Working (BMW) Academy
Prichard Committee
Partners for Youth

March 17, 2021

New Toyota RAV4 receives a special recognition!

2019 Toyota RAV4 Toyota RAV4 has managed to receive accolades at the 2020 Hispanic Motor Press Awards (HMPA) ceremony, held on November 20 during the official opening of the Los Angeles Auto Show, winning the award for the Crossover category.

HPMA are presented by the Hispanic Motor Press Foundation and recognize the most significant vehicles in the market and, of course, the best in the segment, as they meet the needs and desires of Hispanic families. Foundation’s advisory board selected an independent panel of jurors comprised of Hispanic automotive journalists, bloggers, and industry influencers that were to evaluate over 250 new model machines.

And as it comes to the winner, new RAV4 is designed to embody a style and persona inspired by brand’s tough trucks, but also to amplify the desirable traits of a crossover: interior comfort, agile handling, a smooth ride and excellent fuel efficiency. New for the 2020 model is the inclusion multimedia capability with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. For the LE and XLE trim levels, there’s a standard SiriusXM with three-month free trial. Of course, buyers get a heavily revised drivetrain system and overall improved engine. Neat!

Source: Toyota

November 26, 2019

Toyota has revealed the new RAV4 Hybrid: is it any good?

2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Toyota RAV4 has made its global debut at the New York International Auto Show and since this glorious day the brand has confidently secured its positions as one of the leader in new technologies and engineering solutions. And it is no wonder why such a machine has caught the eye of both enthusiasts and sceptics: RAV4 comes with incredibly sexy design and heavily revised and refined drivetrain system. So, let’s check out more, shall we?

Exterior styling

2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The machine is definitely expressive and contemporary looking. It is a bit higher and wider than predecessors and feature straightforward lines and almost no curves – this styling concept contributes to an overall aggressive and sporty appearance. There are some slight reductions made on the front and rear overhangs and a bit of additions: the wheelbase is wider with 30mm, compared to the previous model. In fact, the machine is so widened that the interior allows placement of foldable rear seats doable load floor and deck side nets. Or, in other words, there is plenty of headroom in the cabin and everyone should feel just fine is such a premium SUV.

Drivetrain system

2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The new RAV4 comes with TNGA engines that are both efficient and agile. There is also a completely new unit – a 2.5-liter electric engine that delivers just the right amount of power and features great responsiveness rates. Of course, hybrid is the keyword, as it comes to the whole RAV lineup. There is also a new 2.0-liter petrol engine that can be further paired with manual or automatic gearbox.

Also, just for the hybrid version, Toyota team has developed second electric motor that would give power to the rear wheels and therefore enhance a large amount of torque output. Sweet. For the 2.0-liter petrol model there are mechanical AWD system incorporated and a twin coupling and rear disconnect features on the automatic gearbox system.

2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Source: Toyota

April 3, 2018

The new 2017 RAV4: what we know so far!

As it seems, Toyota team puts safety features first among all other, as it comes to new 2017 models. This is indeed the case with the latest RAV4 SUV: it will not only come with numerous utility and performance goodies, but it will feature comprehensive safety suite. Of course, we are talking about the Toyota Safety Sense thing that will be present on the new RAVs and also to all future SUV models that Toyota team reveals.

The Safety Sense thing means that the new RAV4 vehicle comes with a promise of reduced risk of collision and numerous warning signs. Just few of the additions include Pre-Collision System with autonomous braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam operation and Road Sign Assist.

Furthermore, the engineering team makes one more important improvement: The Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia system has undergone some comprehensive improvement and now offers detailed information about many American roads, more sophisticated functions and new generation of 3D maps. Sweet.

Also, there are new personalization options that were just announced: buyers can specify the vehicle with a Premium Pack that brings hands-free power tailgate, a kick sensor beneath the bumper, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Oh, yeah. And a sun roof.

Also, there are two additional exterior colors: Silver Blade and Phantom Blue. Also, exclusively for the Icon and Excel grades there is this thing “full body” finish. This includes body-colored bumpers, wheel arches and contrasting front and rear under-runs. Cool.

This is what we know so far. Stick with us for further information!

Source: Toyota

October 18, 2016

RAV4 will receive some neat updates for the upcoming season. Check ’em out!

2015 Toyota RAV4 Toyota team expands the safety features to eight of the overall 10 RAV4 models. There are going to be new autonomous braking additions and tons of hi-tech convenience goodies as satellite navigation and Toyota Link connectivity. So, let’s see what Toyota got for customers.

The new safety systems will be available as optional variant for the GX and GXL lineup, while it will be part of the standard equipment for the flagship Cruiser. In fact, buyers of the automatic petrol GXL will be pleased to know that along with the optional safety pack there is a little surprise: customizable dual-tone paint with silver accents on the bumpers, wheel arches door sills and side mirrors. Sweet.

2015 Toyota RAV4

In fact, there are changes in many dimensions: many of them will meet the new season year with new styling, revised interiors and new Euro5-complaint engines. There will be revised Cruise Control systems, Automatic high beam, Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist. Exclusive for the RAV4 GX remain satellite navigation, 4.2-inch color multi-function display, enriched instrument cluster and fog lights.

And what happens to the drivetrain system?

As we have told you, the range includes three four-cylinder power units that start with the agile 143hp (107kW) 2.0-liter petrol unit and finishes with either a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine or the 2.5-liter petrol unit with 176hp (132kW).

2015 Toyota RAV4

Also, there are not that big changes, as it come to gearbox systems: there is the usual six-speed manual and there is the trustworthy Multidrive S 7-speed CVT. All petrol AWD units will be geared with the manual one as a standard, but customers can specify their vehicle with the automatic transmission. In fact, the 7-speed CVT remains standard feature for the 2.0-liter petro Two-Wheel-Drive and the 2.2-liter diesel AWD models.

Source: Toyota

September 12, 2016

2015 Toyota RAV4 Marches Towards UK

2015 Toyota RAV4 RAV4 arrives in UK with full force. The vehicle will be available with diesel and petrol-powered engines and brand’s lovers will also have the chance to try out the first hybrid RAV4 from mid-January next year.

The latest RAV family member confidently offers its capabilities on the market that are indeed pretty interesting: the SUV offers 2.0-liter D-4D diesel and 2.0-liter petrol unit and both offer wonderful performance and low CO2 emissions. And let’s not forget the improved fuel efficiency.

The four-cylinder diesel unit is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and offers 141hp (103kW) and 320Nm of torque. And with the enhanced front-wheel drive the RAV4 can go anywhere with relatively low emissions: 123g/km.

2015 Toyota RAV4

The other choice involves the 2.0-liter 149hp (109kW) Valvematic petrol engine, mated to a CVT automatic transmission and AWD system. This option offers 152g/km and 43.5 mpg for combined cycle CO2 emissions and fuel economy.

The latest RAV member offers comprehensive exterior details with clean and elegant lines, along with new headlamps and 17- or 18-inch wheels.

The inside of the vehicle welcomes with its numerous additions and improvements. For example, Toyota has improved the sensory quality, the ambient lighting design and added more storage points. The interior also benefits from the new 4.2-inch color multi-information display that alogn with the 7-inch touch screen.

2015 Toyota RAV4

Source: Toyota

December 11, 2015

Toyota Details 2015 RAV4 Facelift

2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift Cruiser, GX and GXL Toyota RAV4 has just been significantly updated and this comes to complete a remarkable 2015! So let’s see what has happened with the RAV4 and how the newest facelift complements vehicle’s superior qualities. In short, the SUV has sleeker and more dynamic exterior, refreshed interior, more efficient Euro 5 engines, trailer sway control and a lot of new standard and available features like the integrated active safety and driver assistance technologies. There is one substantial addition to the safety features, which uses a forward-facing camera and millimetre-wave radar to trigger vehicle systems. But let me take you to the details here.

Exterior Changes

Toyota RAV4 Facelift includes at its front a larger lower grille and slimline LED projector headlights, which give it more serious appearance. By the way, the headlights incorporate high and low beams in a housing that also integrates LED daytime running lights. There are also LEDs at the back.

The front and rear bumpers have been both restyled. They add 35mm to the SUV’s overall length. In addition, the new wheel-arch moldings and rocker panels sharpen the sides and give the impression that the RAV4 has wider stance.

2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift Rear View

For this notion also contribute the new wheel designs for mid-range GXL and high-grade Cruiser. Precisely, the GXL runs on 18-inch black alloy with bright machined spokes, while the Cruiser’s new 18-inch alloys have five pairs of spokes. The entry-level GX shows-off with 17-inch steel wheel with low rolling resistance tires.

Three exterior colors have been added to the color palette of the range including Deep Red mica metallic that replaces the Wildfire, Hazel and Blue Gem.

More Luxury Inside as well as… Silence

2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift Interior

RAV4’s cabin is much quieter than before. This adds to the enhanced comfort for the occupants. Toyota introduces a brand new matte black trim with contrasting silver accents. Some changes include an entirely redesigned centre console, front cup holder, 12-volt accessory socket in the second row next to the two in the front as well as a new holder for sunglasses.

The GXL and Cruiser models are also proud ‘owners’ of a two-dial instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch colour TFT multi-information display. GXL is now fitted with an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror. Other cool highlights in the Cruiser include leather-accented seats in black, tan or beige.

Cutting-Edge Safety Technologies

RAV4’s is fitted with wide range of cutting-edge safety technologies. Take for instance the Pre-Collision System with forward collision warning and automatic emergency brake, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

In addition, optional features are the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and front parking sensors. Pre-Collision Safety System can warn the driver of a possible crash and automatically apply the brakes. Furthermore, the Active Cruise Control helps the driver keep a safe distance from the car in front.

Cruiser gets as a standard an Automatic High Beam, which detects the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the taillights of preceding vehicles. Then it switches automatically between high and low beam to avoid dazzling other drivers. This model also gets the Lane Departure Alert as no-cost-option. It is designed to help avoid collisions by warning the driver if the vehicle starts to go out from its lane.

Engines

2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift Front View

2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift has three four-cylinder engines. The first one is the 146 hp (107 kW) 2.0-litre petrol for the two-wheel drive (2WD) variants. This unit is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox or Toyota’s Multidrive S automatic transmission.

The all-wheel drive (AWD) models get a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque, or a 2.5-litre petrol engine that develops 180 hp (132 kW). Petrol AWD variants are fitted with a six-speed multi-mode sequential-shift automatic transmission. On the other hand, the diesel AWD RAV4 offers a choice of the six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

At last, new feature in the range is Toyota’s advanced all-wheel drive technology, called Dynamic Torque Control AWD. It utilizes information from speed, steering-angle and yaw-rate sensors to control torque transfer between the front and rear wheels.

Source: Toyota

December 8, 2015

Toyota RAV4 Will be Tamed by Ryan Millen Himself for the Upcoming 2WD-Open Class

Toyota showed the RAV4 rally vehicle at the Monster Energy Supercross Championship this weekend at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas. The driver is Ryan Millen himself. As you know, Millen won the 2014 Baja 1000 in Toyota Tundra TRD Pro. Now he will drive the RAV4 at various stages. The RAV4 was unveiled between races to display pits throughout the event.

Despite the fact, that competing RAV4 in professional races is a rare sight, now Toyota‘s entry choice stopped on the RAV4. The car is geared with a stock transmission, a 2.5-Liter four-cylinder double-overhead cam engine, that produces 176 hp (129 kW) and172 pounds of torque. Millen’s team managed to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle with the amazing 500 pounds, while adding different roll cage, tires and suspension.

As you know, RAV4’s lighter design allows it to perform extremely well in desert beach or other track. And this is the reason why Toyota team chose this particular model for the races in America.

Ryan Millen is the son of the off-road legend Rod Millen and has been racing for Toyota since childhood. From racing for Ivan Stewart at nine-years old to to racing the FJ Cruiser in Baja 1000, he has proudly demonstrated professionalism and determination to what he likes the most. He will participate in numerous races, that include some of the West Series in America and he will be competiong in the 2WD stock class with the rally built RAV4.

We wish him best of luck and lots of occasions for celebration!

Source: Toyota

May 7, 2015

Toyota to Premiere Tacoma and RAV4 Hybrid in New York

2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road Access Cab Front and Side View Toyota will be exhibiting its future at the New York Auto Show, where it will display a wide range of vehicles, some of which we have never seen before. The first announced was the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and it will be revealed on 2nd of April as the newest of the hybrids in Japanese company’s line-up. There are no additional words regarding this one, so we can’t tell you anything else.

The visitors will also have the chance to see the revolutionary Mirai hydrogen concept. It will be accompanied by a mock-up of a fueling station that will serve as an example of how one can refuel a hydrogen car in five minutes or even less.

The truck space has been reserved for another refreshed model in Toyota’s line-up. And this is the 2016 Tacoma. Here, we have more official data and we can proudly tell you that the vehicle will be powered by a brand new engine. Precisely, it is the 3.5 liter V6, but there is no information on the output. The restyled cab will be also fitted with a GoPro mount for the first time ever, so it can collect visual images of any adventure.

Those who will visit the event will also meet a wide variety of other rides like the FV-2 three-wheel concept, the i-ROAD car, the FT-1 concept, the special New York Yankees graphic-wrapped Prius, the 850 hp Sleeper Camry dragster and the latest special editions of 2016 Camry and Corolla.

In truck’s line-up they will also see the TRD-Pro series lineup, including the Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner, the Sienna:Remix and the special Tundra TRD Pro Desert Race Truck, which went on a journey involving race over 1,200 miles at the 47th Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 and finished first.

Source: Toyota

March 27, 2015

Toyota Releases Four-Wheel Drive RAV4 Edition-S

Toyota is releasing a RAV4 Edition-S which comes enhanced with additional equipment. The sad news is that the model will be offered only in Germany. As a standard, the vehicle comes equipped with four-wheel drive. Other optically viable identification characteristics are the silver roof rails, a hinted under-ride guard, as well as the front and rear chrome strips on the side of the vehicle. Very nice accents are also the 18-inch alloy wheels.

The car has been based on the “Edition” equipment line. This means that it adds two-zone climate control as well as Toyota Smart Key system for keyless opening and closing of the vehicle. A special technology feature is also the electrically opening tailgate “Easy Load”.

Toyota Touch with color 6.1-inch touchscreen is the multimedia system which will make driver’s life easier. There is also featured USB port and Bluetooth hands-free.

Driver and passenger will enjoy the comfort of the special seats which include optimum support with pronounced side bolsters and shoulder support. Privacy is ensured with the tinted rear windows.

When it comes to engine, this Toyota model can be equipped with the 2.0-liter D-4D diesel engine or the Valvematic petrol unit with two liter displacement. The first one produces 124 horsepower (91 kW) or 150 hp (110 kW), while the second one generates 151 hp (111 kW). Their power is transmitted onto the road via a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.

Source: Toyota

December 9, 2014

Toyota RAV4 Comes Enhanced For 2014

2014 Toyota RAV4 now gets further enhanced. It adopts a wide variety of technology features such as Reverse Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Departure Alert in order to add more safety and convenience. What is more, the two mentioned technologies come as a standard.

Furthermore, RAV4 is also fitted with a reversing camera on all models, as well as multimedia audio units operated through a 6.1-inch display screen and switches on the steering-wheel hub. To go to the absolutely new features the mid-sized SUV gets 11-speaker JBL sound system with DAB+ digital radio, Automatic High Beam and Back Guide Monitor.

The range-topping variants of RAV4 runs as a standard on 18-inch machined alloys wheels with black highlights fitted with wider and lower-profile 235/55 Dunlop tyres. To go further into details, this Toyota model is offered with three four-cylinder engines.

The two-wheel drive variants are equipped with 145 hp (107 kW) 2.0-litre petrol engine, while the all-wheel drive versions can be specified with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that generates 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque, or a 2.5-litre petrol that develops 180 hp(132 kW).

2WD RAV4’s engine is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox or Toyota’s Multidrive S seven-speed automatic transmission. 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 automatic gearboxes.

Dynamic Torque Control AWD is an advanced AWD technology which is featured here. It utilizes data from various sensors and continuously controls the torque transfer between the front and rear wheels via an electromagnetically controlled coupling positioned in front of the rear differential.

Next, the Reverse Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is designed to provide additional safety and convenience when backing out of a car space. Precisely, it warns the driver of approaching vehicles, when the reversing vehicle is travelling at less than 8km/h and vehicles are approaching from the left or right at between 8 and 28km/h.

Lane Departure Alert (LDA) detects the vehicle when it is about to go astray from the traffic lane, while the Automatic High Beam (AHB) detects the lack of light from surrounding street lamps or from other vehicles at night and automatically switches the headlamps to high beam.

Source: Toyota

January 24, 2014

2013 Toyota RAV4 Available With Toyota Genuine Accessories

2013 Toyota RAV4 has been already present on the market and it is now time to be additionally enhanced by an extensive range of Toyota Genuine accessories. The new generation RAV4 was unveiled in the end of November last year at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

But to go further into details, the range of additional equipment include polished alloy nudge bar engineered specifically for RAV4, side steps, cargo barrier, rubber cargo mat, scuff guard, bonnet protector and slim-line weather-shield. A lightweight Toyota Genuine roof racks features a locking system. For it there are additional accessories offered such as including a kayak cradle, bike carrier and 440-litre roof pod.

In addition, there is also available aerodynamic ski and snowboard carrier. It is offered in two lengths and is built from corrosion-resistant anodized aluminium. On can open it vie the push of a button, even while wearing thick ski gloves.

Furthermore, there is also available the Toyota ParkAssist System. In the front bumper it utilizes ultrasonic sensors. They can serve as a warning of nearby obstructions and can assist the driver in their judgment of the distance to objects close to the front of the car.

Floor mats from quality fibre with distinctive RAV4 branding are also included in the additional accessories. Here the driver’s mat includes two retainers to secure it to the floor. High-strength acrylic headlamp covers are available for GX and GXL grades. Also available, this time only on the GX specification, are reversing camera and display audio, durable seat covers and front mudguards.