Toyota discontinued the diesel powertrain option from RAV4 and the company replaced it with the hybrid all-wheel-drive system in Australia
Toyota officially introduced the fifth generation RAV4 earlier this year and sales have already begun in selected markets. Now the company is planning to introduce the model in Australia and for the first time, Toyota is introducing hybrid powertrain with the all-wheel-drive system in RAV4.
Even though the SUV segment sales are dominated by the diesel-powered models, Toyota decided to discontinue the diesel engine option with RAV4. The hybrid model is powered by 2.5 L engine from Camry producing 207 hp of power and 221 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to CVT automatic transmission.
The all-wheel-drive system on hybrid RAV4 is different as it gets an electric motor on the rear axle and depending on the road conditions, it can send up to 80 per cent of power to rear wheels. Toyota has also given limited slip differential to improve grip during on and off-road conditions. The hybrid all-wheel-drive system is more efficient than the conventional system.
Most of the new generation cars use lithium-ion battery set-up but Toyota is sticking to the cheaper less energy-dense nickel-metal hybrid battery pack and usually they are stored in boot, which reduces volume but it is mounted under the seat in RAV4, so the SUV won’t lose any luggage space as it is very important for customers.
The RAV4 hybrid model also comes with multi-terrain drive modes for off-roading like mud & sand and rock & dirt. Toyota will also offer a retuned 2.5 L hybrid engine with 203 hp of power and 243 Nm of torque but it comes with the mechanical all-wheel-drive system and it can send power 50 per cent to the rear. This engine is mated to 8 speed automatic gearbox.
The new generation RAV4 is based on the TNGA platform, which is used by most of the new generation Toyota models and the company has increased wheelbase by 30 mm to improve space inside the cabin. The SUV also gets a new exterior design theme along with a modern interior, which is packed with lots of features.
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