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News: Toyota RAV4 hybrid | SA Car Fan

New bumper, grille lights? These pictures are of the hybrid Toyota RAV4 and hybrid models generally look different – more enclosed grilles, different wheels – to the petrol or …

News: Toyota RAV4 hybrid

Toyota RAV4 at New York Motor Show

New bumper, grille lights?

These pictures are of the hybrid Toyota RAV4 and hybrid models generally look different – more enclosed grilles, different wheels – to the petrol or diesel versions. However that is not to say it’s entirely irrelevant and from these images we can glean that the 2016 Toyota RAV4 is likely to include new LED lights, reworked bumpers and more flowing lines in general. Inside Toyota say the new RAV4 is more premium and retains the touchscreen.

What’s significant?

There isn’t much case for a hybrid in this segment when the RAV4 already comes with a comprehensive range of petrol and diesel engines. That said it’s interesting to track the developments; a 2.5-litre petrol engine drives the front axle while the electric motor drives the rear axle. Voila. All-wheel drive. A towing capacity of 1650kg makes us wonder whether the Toyota RAV4 will be CVT or not. Toyota is crowing about the new 360-degree panoramic cameras and a suite of new safety features.

Early verdict?

Really too early to tell even for us but if some of the styling upgrades shown here do make their way to the South African product we’ll be pleased. The current Toyota RAV4 still feels a bit utilitarian against the modern Ford Kuga but that could change with this new one. Capable off-roading and wide network coverage will continue to position it favourably to the adventure type.

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About Andrew Leopold

cvt, diesel, electric, hybrid