Toyota has debuted a new premium, fun-to-drive RAV4 performance model with an estimated 298bhp, advanced all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension and exclusive design features.
Scheduled to hit international markets in mid-2020, the RAV4 Prime will break new ground as the most powerful and quickest RAV4 ever, while also being the most fuel efficient.
Despite carrying a larger lithium-ion battery, interior space will not be compromised thanks to the battery's low mounting position under the floor, which Toyota claims will also enhance driving stability thanks to a lower centre of gravity
The RAV4 Prime will employ the same version of electronic on-demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as the RAV4 Hybrid. In both models, a separate rear-mounted electric motor powers the rear wheels when needed, including when maximum acceleration is needed and also in reduced-traction conditions.
As on the RAV4 Hybrid, an innovative Predictive Efficient Drive feature will also act like an invisible 'hypermiling' co-driver.
Using the available navigation system, Predictive Efficient Drive essentially reads the road and learns driver patterns to optimise hybrid battery charging and discharging operations based on driving conditions. The system accumulates data as the vehicle is driven and 'remembers' road features such as hills and stoplights to adjust the hybrid powertrain operation for maximum efficiency.
