Joining a distinguished line of Toyota’s hybrid family is the company’s eighth hybrid model, the remixed 2016 RAV4 Hybrid. Available later this fall, consumers looking for utility, all-around versatility and more importantly, fuel economy can look to the RAV4 Hybrid not only as a vessel that’ll deliver higher MPG, but one that’ll also provide more horsepower and improved acceleration than a standard RAV4. Available in two premium options – XLE and Limited – both versions will come equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWD-i). Optional equipment includes 17-inch alloys, and a choice of six exterior colors, including Super White, Blizzard Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, Black Sand Pearl and a new Blue (to be announced).
Additionally, refreshed gas RAV4s will be available: the LE, XLE, Limited and a new SE. The front end has been redesigned with headlights featuring LED technology, also applying to the daytime running lights and hi-lo beams; the rear bumper and tailgate have LED taillights as well. Three new exterior color options have been added, including Silver Sky Metallic, Black Currant Metallic and Electric Storm Blue. Inside, Toyota’s added more premium features, such as a 4.2-inch TFT multi-info display integrated into the gauge cluster, 7-inch touchscreen unit, leather steering wheel (except LE model), updated cup holders, additional USB port (to front) and 12V power outlet (to rear) and three new interior colors (Tan, Beige and Tan/Black combo for the SE model). All RAV4s will also come equipped with the new Bird’s Eye View Monitor, which places four cameras around the vehicle (front, side mirrors and rear) to give a panoramic view of the vehicle’s surroundings to the driver; additionally, it provides assistance while parallel parking or moving in and out of parking spaces.
Those looking for a more performance minded RAV4 should gravitate naturally towards the SE, which will come equipped with a sport-tuned suspension for improved response. The SE will also have other unique features, such as 18-inch alloys, LED headlights/taillights, 4.2-inch color TFT multi-info display with meter cluster, twin dials, red illumination and red pointer, and best of all, paddle shifters. The SE will come painted in a split scheme, with either a Super White, Black Sand Pearl or Electric Storm Blue top matched to a Classic Silver Metallic lower trim.
For more info on the 2016 Toyota RAV4, visit www.toyota.com.
(Images: courtesy of Toyota)