6 April 2016
With improved fuel economy in mind, the CVT transmission has been tweaked but it’s only included in the front drive 2.0ltr petrol model. A 6-speed automatic features in the remaining AWD RAVs, which is powered by the 2.5 petrol engine - the most popular choice - and the 2.2 diesel engine. Three grades are now also available across the board; the GX and GXL, and also the top spec Limited which brings a varying degree of improvements. All models result in a pretty good car that is quiet, simplistic and just does what it needs to without any fuss.
Lifting the level of standard safety features
The GX is fitted with a reversing camera that has static guidelines, while the GXL variants are enhanced by the addition of dynamic guidelines and Blindspot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert – a feature that was previously only available with the LTD grade of the outgoing model. Front parking sensors are also standard on the GXL and Limited models, which also now have Toyota Safety Sense fitted as standard, featuring Pre-Crash System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist Function, Dynamic Radar Cruise with Automatic Brake Control and Automatic High Beam.
All models come equipped with a reversing camera, hill-start assist and downhill assist (AWD only), emergency stop signal, seven airbags, two ISOFIX anchors and three top tether anchor points. And, for those of you who have safety front of mind, you’ll be glad to hear that the Toyota RAV4 has achieved a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
LED technology added
Exterior refinements have been made, such as the striking new bumper, grille and headlamp design. The self-levelling LED headlamps incorporate DRL’s across the range and LED rear tail lamps have also been added into the mix. This is finished off with new body colours and wheel changes to round up the external changes for 2016.
Inside there is a new, refined look, particularly with the GX models as they sport a very clean, no-frills interior, along with very comfy cloth seats. The functional control, easy to manage layout and simple hands-free connectivity make it ideal for fleet use.
The GXL model has a leather covered steering wheel and gear lever, and also features front fog lamps, smart key, push button start, dual zone climate A/C and much more. The Limited gets the same treatment, plus leather seats, leather finished door trims, a moon roof, an 11 speaker JBL audio system and a Sat Nav.
Prices for the RAV4 start at a very reasonable $37,490 for the entry level 2.0 2WD Petrol GX, and finish with the executive 2.2 AWD Diesel Limited at $60,990.
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