Following the recent launch of GX-specification RAV4 models, Toyota SA has added a 2,2-litre turbodiesel to its mini SUV range. CAR technical editor Jake Venter samples the D-4D – the first diesel engine to be offered in Toyota SA’s passenger vehicle line-up.
Following the recent launch of GX-specification RAV4 models, Toyota SA has added a 2,2-litre turbodiesel to its mini SUV range. CAR technical editor Jake Venter sampled the D-4D – the first diesel engine to be offered in Toyota SA’s passenger vehicle line-up.
CARtoday.com reported in March that the new RAV4 had arrived in South Africa fresh from its Frankfurt Show début with more chiselled styling and larger dimensions. The three-door had been abandoned and, for the first time in South Africa, the RAV4 would be made available in both petrol and diesel derivatives. Preceding the launch of the D-4D model (available in GX or VX specifications), the Prospecton-based company added a petrol-powered GX derivative at the beginning of the month.
The RAV4 turbodiesel is powered by a 2,2-litre four cylinder with variable vane turbocharger and common rail fuel injection. Maximum power for this powerplant, which is mated with a six-speed manual transmission, is 100 kW at 3 600 r/min with 310 N.m of torque available between 2000 and 2800 r/min.
“The worldwide passion for diesel engines has finally persuaded conservative Toyota to release a passenger-car diesel powerplant in this country (the unit in the Fortuner is considered to be a commercial vehicle engine),” Venter said. “The RAV is the first model to get this engine, but others are in the pipeline”.
“Every time we drive a new diesel the thought occurs that it has to be the smoothest and quietest on the market, but this 2,2-litre four cylinder has to be the pick of the bunch. It idles with a slight diesel sound, but once you’re on the move it’s even smoother and quieter than the average petrol engine.
“It has twin balance shafts, and is geared to do 120 km/h at just over 2 000 r/min in the highest of six gears, so that from 80 km/h upwards the RAV might as well be driven by an electric motor. There is no mechanical sound from the vehicle’s exhaust or engine, and the torque delivery from 2 000 to 2 800 r/min ensures that gear changing is seldom needed on the open road.
“Even below 2 000 r/min, where most diesels pull strongly but feel stressed at large throttle openings, this engine shows no sign of needing a gear change,” Venter, who is the only South African juror on the International Engine of the Year award panel, said.
As is the case with the rest of the RAV4 range, the D-4D models feature Toyota’s new Integrated Active Drive System, which introduces VSC+ to the small SUV segment. In most vehicles the anti-lock braking (ABS), traction control (TRC), and vehicle stability control contribute to advanced vehicle control, but Toyota’s VSC+ adds electronic power steering to the mix and integrates all of the electronic functions, together with the Active Torque Control 4WD system, via a high-sped CAN communications interface.
The GX-specification turbodiesel RAV4 costs R294 400. Dual stage driver and passenger front, side, curtain, and knee airbags, ABS, electric steering, power windows and side mirrors, height- and reach-adjustable steering column, multi-information display, transponder immobiliser, remote central locking with double lock feature, air conditioner, six-way adjustable front seats, radio/CD combination with six speakers, flexible Easy-flat seat system and alloy wheels (fitted with 225/65 R17 tyres) are standard.
At R330 000, the VX-specification D-4D-engined RAV4 is the most expensive model in Toyota SA’s new mini SUV range. It offers the following features over and above that of the GX models: “Keyless” Smart Entry & Start System, full leather trim, leather covered steering wheel with satellite controls for audio system, rear window demister with timer, side mirrors with retract feature and water repellent surface, electrochromatic interior rear view mirror, rain sensing automatic windscreen wipers, automatic headlight system with ambient light sensor, front driving lamps, automatic air conditioner with independent controls for left and right sides, power-operated driver’s seat with 8-way movement and radio/CD combination with 6-CD changer and six speakers.
Prices include a five year/90 000km ToyotaCare Service Plan that covers the cost of all scheduled service items and labour. The vehicle’s warranties are valid for three years/100 000km with 24-hour roadside assistance available for the duration of the period.
