All new sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 unveiled

The new RAV4 will come in HEV and PHEV versions.

Toyota has unveiled the new sixth-generation RAV4 SUV. This is one of the most awaited unveilings, as the RAV4 is a best-seller in America and a popular model worldwide.

The latest RAV4 rides on an upgraded version of its predecessor’s underpinnings. It will be available in HEV and PHEV options. There will be no pure petrol-powered model. A GR Sport version will also be on offer.

Upfront, the new RAV4 gets new C-shaped LED headlamps, a body coloured front grille and large air intakes. There are trapezoidal wheel arches and a distinct character line running from the bottom of the front door all the way to the end of the D-pillar. New design alloy wheels are available in 17, 18 or 20-inch sizes depending on the trim.

The rear features new LED taillamps that extend into the tailgate. There is a large roof spoiler and roof rails as well. The rear bumper gets a rugged skid plate.

Dimensions-wise, the new RAV4 measures 4,595-4,618 mm in length, 1,687 to 1,722 mm in height (variant specific), with an identical wheelbase of 2,690 mm. There are three styles on offer, Core, Sport, and Rugged, each of which has different trim levels. The Core offers the LE, XLE and Limited trims, the Rugged introduces the new Woodland grade, and the Sport comes with SE, XSE and GR Sport trims.

On the interior, the new RAV4 gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a free-standing infotainment screen in either 10.5 or 12.9 inches, depending on the trim you choose. Other features include a heads-up display and a nine-speaker JBL Premium Audio system. A six-speaker system is standard. It is also interesting to note that physical buttons for the climate control have been removed. Digital controls are incorporated under the touchscreen.

Toyota has also introduced its new Arene software development platform in the new RAV4 infotainment system. Toyota says it is their “first step toward fully software-defined vehicles.”

The new RAV4 will come in HEV and PHEV versions. Both feature a 2.5-litre petrol engine. The HEV puts out a combined output of 226 BHP in FWD and 236 BHP in AWD guise. The PHEV comes in only AWD and develops 320 BHP. Toyota claims that updates to the transaxle, power control unit, a larger battery pack, and the addition of silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle all contribute to the extra power.

The PHEV gets an electric-only range of 80 km. The XSE and Woodland trims get the option of DC fast charging with a CCS port. It can charge from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes.

Toyota will roll out the new RAV4 to customers in over 180 countries and regions globally later this year.