The revised RAV4 has been launched in South Africa, just weeks after its début at the Frankfurt Show. While the compact SUV is not completely new, it does include added features.
The revised RAV4 has been launched in South Africa, just weeks after its début at the Frankfurt Show. While the compact SUV is not completely new, it does include added features.
Subtle styling changes have been included to keep the RAV4 contemporary. Most aspects of the interior have been revised, and the entire instrument panel has a more sporty appeal with white-faced instruments with silver surrounds.
Provision has been made for the storage of small items, with the space to store cards and coins, pockets within the door trim and sunglass storage in the overhead console.
For electrically powered accessories, there are two 12-volt points, one in the front and one in the rear, in addition to the traditional lighter point. The manufacturer has fitted a larger rear-view mirror for increased visibility.
The RAV4 has all-independent suspension with disc brakes all round (ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution).
There are front and rear crushable sections to absorb energy in a crash situation. The cabin section of the vehicle is of a high strength construction and fully compliant with European safety requirements for frontal collision protection.
South African buyers will have the choice of the 1,8-litre 4X2 or the two-litre 4X4, both available in five- and three-door versions. There is an automatic version of the five-door 4X4.
The 4X4 variants of the RAV4 are fitted with the latest version of Toyota’s 2,0 litre VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing- intelligent) all aluminium engine. Maximum power is 110 kW at 6 000 r/min, with maximum torque of 192 N.m at 4000 r/min.
The 4X2 models are powered by an aluminium 1,8-litre engine too, also with VVT-i which produces 92 kW at 6 000 r/min and maximum torque of 161 N.m at 4200 r/min.
Along with the expected standard equipment of air conditioning, power steering and high mount stop lights; the updated RAV4 includes driver and passenger air bags of the two-stage deployment type.
With this feature, an on-board sensor controls the deployment of the air bags relative to the measured impact and severity of the collision. Each vehicle also comes standard with a 4-speaker radio/CD system with a steering wheel mounted remote control and central locking.
Tyres are 215/70R16 on the two-wheel drive models, and 235/60R16 for the 4X4 models. Wheels are 7JJX16 aluminium.
The starting price of the revised RAV4 is R228 870 for the 1,8 litre, three door manual, while the top-of-the-range two-litre manual five-speed retails at R287 010. There is also a two-litre four-speed automatic model (R294 000).