New Toyota RAV4 launches in the U.S.A

Toyota has launched its new RAV4 in the U.S.A.

The new SUV continues to feature large tyres, an elevated ride height, and an upright cargo area, although you will note that this RAV4 now gets what Toyota describes as a hammerhead front (also seen on the Prius and Camry).

The cabin of the new Toyota RAV4 features a new 12.3-inch gauge cluster alongside a redesigned centre stack

A contoured hood and angular fenders build on the strong stance of this RAV4, while new taillights held add visual width when the car is viewed from the rear.

On the inside, the Toyota RAV4 now groups all its functions on a new centre stack, and Toyota states that users will find the cabin a smartly organised space. A new 12.3-inch gauge cluster also features in the RAV4 alongside a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system, said to offer a faster and more responsive voice assistant, customisable home menu, and 5G connectivity.

The RAV4 is offered with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains in the U.S.A

This new Toyota RAV4 continues to be built atop the firm's TNGA K unibody platform, although improvements have been made to the platform's suspension mounting points for improved rigidity, and the car’s door seals for improved insulation from wind noise. The car is also said to have received a re-tuned suspension, while a host of upgrades to the chassis promise increased cabin insulation.

Powering this new Toyota RAV4 is a hybrid drivetrain that makes use of a 2.5-litre engine. The hybrid front-wheel drive variant will offer a total of 223bhp, while the hybrid all-wheel drive variant will offer a total of 233bhp thanks to an electric motor that powers the rear axle. A 316bhp plug-in hybrid drivetrain is also offered in the U.S.A, and can power the Toyota RAV4 for up to 81km on electric power alone.

Toyota states that close to 6.4 million examples of the RAV4 have made their way onto the road since its arrival in the U.S.A in 1996.