Toyota RAV4

Overview

Complementing the modern angular design language, Toyota has come up with the all-new RAV4 which sits above the Fortuner as a more premium five-seater crossover. Originally introduced in 1994 as a compact SUV to cater to urban markets, the RAV4 has grown much over these years and has entered into the fifth-generation model. Available in three different variants – LTD, XLE and LE, the RAV4 is being offered in a choice of nine color options – Super White, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver, Grey, Attitude Black Mica, Red Mica, Urban Khaki, Cyan Metallic and Dark Blue Mica.

Interior & Features

On the inside too, things have taken a much more modern and trendy approach. The overall design layout looks much more European than Japanese, with the cabin high on interior space as well as comfort and convenience features.

The instrument console now comes with a large colored LCD MID screen, which looks futuristic and not like in any other Toyota SUVs. The angular theme is very well executed in the dashboard as well as the center console too, with a lot of character lines and creases around AC vents and below the infotainment system. The touchscreen infotainment system is a floating-type as seen in many recent SUVs and looks pretty cool too.

Given the large dimensions and size, the Toyota RAV4 is high on space as well, in both rows. However, the third row of seats would have been welcomed. Also, the RAV4 is well loaded in terms of features as well, with the SUV getting dual zone climate control, panoramic moonroof, steering mounted audio, Bluetooth and cruise controls, push-button start with keyless entry, wireless smartphone charger, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, leather upholstery and many more.

Exterior

Gone is the curvy design theme for the previous generation RAV4s and in comes a very sharp design language, which has made the RAV4 look much more aggressive than ever before.

The front fascia of the RAV4 consists of an inverted trapezoidal grille with a sleek horizontal line above it making it look larger than ever before when viewed head-on. The triangular parabola headlamps are full LEDs and come with daytime running lights as well as an auto leveling system. The raised body cladding at the front gives the RAV4 a much needed rugged look.

Moving towards the side profile, the RAV4 comes with a  rather blocky and old-school silhouette, however, the presence of sharp creases on the entire side profile make it look trendy and modern. The squared wheel arches with side cladding, door mounted rear view mirrors, slim roof rails, as well as large side glasses, make it look more SUV-ish than ever before.

At the rear, the angular flow of the design continues with sharply shaped and horizontally laid LED tail lamps and number plate housing.

Ride & Handling

Compared to other conventional old school SUVs, the RAV4is built around a modern new generation frame, and gets Macpherson struts at the front and double wishbone setup at the rear. The ride quality is much less bouncy as compared to all the other SUVs from Toyota, however, the body roll can still be felt at higher speeds due to high ground clearance.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

The Toyota RAV4 is equipped with only one petrol engine on offer, which is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder gasoline powered unit. The engine, mated to an 8-speed direct shift automatic gearbox, is capable of pumping out a maximum power output of 205 PS and a peak torque output of 243 Nm.

Braking & Safety

The Toyota RAV4, being a premium and modern crossover, is high on safety features as well, as  the list of safety features here includes front, side, and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, vehicle stability control, traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control and eight-way eye front and rear parking sensors with reverse camera.

Verdict

Toyota has followed a much more modern and larger approach for the RAV4, which is ensured that the crossover is high on visual drama and premium appeal. The larger dimension than ever before making it much more spacious than erstwhile models, with a number of new safety, comfort and convenience features making it very trendy and European in feel.