TOKYO: The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 made its world premiere in Japan, under the concept of "Life is an Adventure".
The new RAV4 will come in PHEV (plug-in hybrid) and HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) models.
The PHEV models combines a high-capacity drive battery and high-output charger compatible with Toyota's latest sixth-generation hybrid system, making its first use of the system.
The PHEV models also offer a all-electric cruising range of 150km (increased from the previous 95km), thanks to a higher capacity battery.
With 12% higher motor output, the new RAV4 is also said to deliver a unique off-road performance for a more exciting drive.
Its DC rapid charging system can charge the battery to 80% of capacity in around 30 minutes - when using fast charging of 50kW or more.
As for the HEV models, they feature higher motor output thanks to improvements to the transaxle, power control unit, battery, and other components.
The new RAV4 will come in three exterior trims namely Core, Adventure and GR Sport.
Core is billed as standing out in urban settings while Adventure offers a widened tread, special wheel arch moldings, and a large, relatively tall grille that stands out.
The GR Sport trim offers enhanced suspension tuning and body rigidity as well as a wider tread (+20mm) and lightweight aluminum wheels.
Meanwhile, in the cabin, the new RAV4 has a reversible console box that can normally be used as an armrest but can serve as a tray when flipped over.
Rear cargo capacity has been expanded from the previous 733 litres to 749 litres.
By making the rear seatbacks even flatter when folded, the ease of storage for longer items has also been improved.
Also, Toyota's Arene software development platform makes its debut in the new RAV4.
Developed by Woven by Toyota (WbyT), Arene aims for a software-defined future with zero accidents.
In the new RAV4, Arene powers the new multimedia system’s cockpit voice agent and center display, as well as the latest Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite of advanced safety technologies.
In the new RAV4, TSS will include Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS) where the system automatically slows down and stops the vehicle, in the event that a driver becomes incapacitated due to sudden illness or other reasons.
The system has been improved to slow down and guide the vehicle to a safe place on the road shoulder.
Also, a sudden acceleration suppression system can restrain acceleration when it detects excessive or accidental accelerator input, whether or not there are obstacles.
