The new Toyota RAV4, latest version of the original compact SUV, brings a host of upgrades and new features – not least a fresh exterior design. Herewith a short overview of the updates:
Exterior changes
The first thing you’ll notice about the new RAV4 is its sleek new look.
New LED-equipped headlamps, upper and lower grilles, front bumper and revised mud flaps (on the GX models) simplify the front end design, and reflect the latest Toyota look also seen on new Auris and Yaris.
The reshaped ‘nose’ around the upper front grille is a key update to the latest model. It has been de-cluttered and smoothed out, with the addition of chrome detail for the grille to lend a more cohesive appearance.
A slinky tail light design that features LED lights and no visible reverse lights sharpens up the rear end while the reshaped lower tailgate and tailgate garnish further emphasise the RAV’s solid stance.
The rear bumper now comprises a larger painted section while the revised rear fog lamps, a stylish shark-fin antenna and under body valance strengthens the look.
All grades of the new RAV4 have new alloy wheel designs with differing styles dependent on grade: The 17-inch 5-spoke design on the GX now has split spokes, while the 18-inch 10-spoke designs available on the VX models has been refined with slimmer spokes to express high quality and strength.
Interior changes
One of the areas Toyota engineers focused on with the updated RAV4 is the sensory quality of the interior.
The ambient lighting, materials and the layout of the gear shift area and cup holders have been revised and improved and a storage area for sunglasses has been added into the overhead interior lighting cluster above the windscreen.
The ornamentation textures have been made more distinct; the dials have been improved with the addition of a 4.2-inch colour multi-information display in the instrument binnacle which shows information on energy usage, vehicle information and customisation options.
It’s all coordinated with the central 7-inch Toyota Touch 2 touch screen multimedia system (VX models only) with ergonomically-enhanced controls and a new high-resolution screen.
The package includes Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls; a rear-view camera; vehicle information, including trip data, climate control profile; and management of settings for door locking and lighting.
It also enables simple connection of iPods and MP3 players via USB or Bluetooth. Audio system options, such as the radio and CD player, can also be controlled using the screen.
Convenience and safety system changes
The shoulder portion of the front door trim has been softened, and convenience specification now include: Front Sonar (VX models) with warning buzzer and Back Monitor (new on the GX models) with guidelines (on the VX models only), an additional 12V accessory connector in the rear (all models), and auto headlamp levelling (changed from manual in the GX models).
New safety specification include an auto door lock system for the GX and VX models that allows doors to automatically lock once the vehicle reaches a specific speed limit, auto locking retractor seatbelts for the rear centre seats, Trailer Sway Control and an alarm system for the GX models.
