Although the SUV’s popularity is being redesigned, some aspects remain unchanged.
Automakers find it difficult to make changes to their best-selling vehicles. The RAV4 isn’t Toyota’s most beloved offering. The U.S. sold over 400,000 units last year, which is a 15% increase from 2016. Toyota has a new model, while the RAV4 is selling like hotcakes. It’s an understatement to say that the next-generation model has a lot of riding on it.
We now have complete disclosure. It appears that Toyota follows the widely accepted rules for improving a modern SUV. The new 2019 RAV4 rides on Toyota’s TNGA platform. This allows for an increase in wheelbase (1.2 inches), while decreasing overall length by only a quarter of inch. The SUV is slightly larger and a little shorter than the previous RAV4. The RAV4’s new design features include optional two-tone body/roof colors. This is a popular trend in crossover/SUV markets.
The SUV should have a longer wheelbase which will improve its road handling. However, the front and rear overhangs are shorter to aid in off-road performance. The new torque-vectoring all wheel drive system can help improve the SUV’s handling. It can send half of the engine’s power to the rear wheels, while also channeling power left and right. This is where vectoring comes in. It also employs a clever set of dog clutches that completely disengages the rear wheels during normal operation to improve efficiency. This is one of three AWD systems that are available. The other two are the more traditional and Toyota’s AWD hybrid setup, which creates 30% more torque for the electrically driven rear wheels.
Toyota claims that the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the RAV4 is still available for standard and hybrid models. Although horsepower and mileage figures have not yet been released, standard models will be able to benefit from an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CVT will still be used for hybrids.
The interior of the new RAV4 has a minimalist appearance. The seven-inch standard infotainment screen can be raised to a floating position. An optional eight-inch screen is available. Toyota’s Entune 3.0 audio system includes Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Entune Audio Plus option gives you a larger screen and Sirius XM radio. Entune Premium adds navigation. You’ll find a variety of USB ports and wireless chargers. There’s also an optional 800-watt JBL sound system for stereo enthusiasts. A new rearview mirror display can show more than normal behind the SUV because it features a high mount camera. This is an optional extra unless you choose the Limited model, which includes 19-inch wheels and lots of chrome accents.
However, you won’t need to pay more for an array of safety features. Toyota Safety Sense is a standard feature on all RAV4s. It includes familiar features such as forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, emergency braking, dynamic brake control, lane departure warning and steering assist, as well as safety systems like dynamic cruise control, lane deviation warning with steering assistance, and auto high beams. Toyota’s Lane Tracing Assist is new for 2019. This pseudo-autonomous system will steer the RAV4 as well as provide hands on driver assistance. Toyota claims that it “reduces driver burden” and “supports safe driving especially in traffic congestion and long highway trips.” A Road Sign Assist can also identify road signs and alert drivers who are not paying attention. Toyota does not use the term autonomous for these new offerings.
The new RAV4 will not be available for purchase until the winter. Hybrid models are expected to arrive in 2019. Pricing will be announced later. It will take until next year to see if it is as successful as its predecessor.