Toyota unveils the 298bhp RAV4 Prime

The first-ever RAV4 plug-in hybrid will have the ability to get from zero to 96km/h in a projected 5.8 seconds, which is the second quickest acceleration time in the Toyota lineup, and will allow an estimated 63km range on battery alone.

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.

The system also reduces understeer during cornering for enhanced steering stability. Off-road, AWD also enhances hill-climbing performance. A driver-selectable Trail Mode will also make it possible to get unstuck by braking any free spinning wheel and sending torque to the grounding wheel.

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.