log in

Launches

Brought to you by:

Toyota launches RAV4

  • Written by Narend Sooknarine
  • Published in Launches

Article Index

Although its world debut was at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show, now just a few months later, T&T heralds the arrival of the new 4th-generation Toyota RAV4. Toyota’s official launch at their Barataria showroom was one of the most well attended we have ever seen, a testament to the popularity of the RAV4 in T&T.

 

The Toyota RAV4 was the world’s first popular compact crossover SUV, making its debut at the Toyko Motor Show in 1989.  Production began in 1994, prompting other manufacturers to make similar vehicles and create a new crossover SUV market segment. Conceptually, RAV4 stands for Recreational Activity Vehicle, four-wheel drive, even though the RAV4 is widely available in front-wheel drive versions. It allowed people who needed SUV-like benefits, such as increased ground clearance, cargo room, optional 4WD, and improved visibility to enjoy more car-like fuel economy, NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) and handling. Compact SUVs currently represent 21 per cent of the total market share according to Sales and Marketing Manager, Nicholas McDonald.

The biggest change, which came directly from Akio Toyoda, was for more exhilarating designs, throughout the Toyota line. Thus this new five-seater RAV4 has been reimagined with a strikingly bolder, more athletic shape. Given that Toyota now owns a healthy stake in Fiji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru, there seems to be some design influence infiltrating the new RAV4’s lines, which is a good thing in this case. For convenience, a more conventional lift gate door has replaced the traditional side gate rear door, and the rear tyre has been relocated under the cargo area. The aerodynamics have been significantly improved with a rear spoiler and undercarriage enhancements for better airflow and greater fuel economy.

Toyota has finally brought its feature list up to par with the availability of technologies like factory-installed rear parking sensors, push button start, smart key entry and steering wheel mounted controls for the audio system and Bluetooth hands-free phone integration. Cabin space has been improved with slimmer front seatbacks that allow more rear passenger knee room without compromising front passenger comfort. Special French stitching adorns the instrument panel and seats.
Engine options will include the fuel-efficient 2.0-litre 143hp/138ft-lb with 7-speed CVT transmission and 2WD or the powerful new 177hp/172ft-lb 2.5-litre engine mated to a 6-speed automatic and 4WD. Both versions feature a 60-litre fuel tank, Toyota’s dual VVTi technology and fuel saving Eco modes. A new Sport mode on the 2.5-litre version will allow several functions to respond more precisely to provide an edgier driving experience. Both categories will feature three levels of trim: standard mid-spec with fabric seats, fully loaded with fabric seats, or the executive leather package. Many customers placed their orders by the end of the night and we look forward to bringing you a full test drive review in an upcoming issue of Zorce!Zorce

 

View this photo set on Flickr

SPONSORED BY

TT Motorsport Car Clubs

  • Autosport - Drags, Drag & Wind
  • C.A.R.S. - Solodex/Autocross
  • Rally Club TT - Rally
  • Side-B - Off Road
  • Trail Blazers - Off Road
  • Trini Truckin'
  • TTASA - Drags, Circuit, Karting
  • TTDA - Drift
  • TTKA - Karting
  • TTORC - Off Road
  • TTundra - Drag Racing