Toyota USA has finally lifted the lid on the all-new Toyota RAV-4.
The fifth-generation RAV4 now sports a front reminiscent of the 4Runner SUV, and breaks the mould that automakers typically follow with their design. Most follow an evolutionary design, however the RAV4 is revolutionary. It would be impossible to confuse this and its predecessor.
The interior is very closely styled to that of the freshly revealed Corolla hatch, and also has the new 'floating' infotainment screen, which features the new Entune 3.0 multimedia system that now includes Apple CarPlay as standard alongside hands-free access to Amazon Alexa and WiFi connectivity.
The SUV will be available with three different all-wheel-drive systems, including Toyota’s new Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, and a Multi-Terrain Select system for some extra electronic assistance through snow, mud, sand and rock modes.
With the 5th generation RAV4, Toyota has switched from the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) C Platform that underpins the Prius and C-HR to the TNGA K version that is shared with the American Camry. That brings some changes to the proportions, as the new RAV4 rides on a 2.69m wheelbase that’s 3cm longer than before, yet its 5mm shorter at 4.6m. It’s also 10mm wider at 1.85m, while height drops by 5mm to 1.7m. Toyota claims the new unibody chassis is 57% more rigid than the outgoing version.
Standard on all vehicles, the technology package includes: pre-collision with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, automatic high beam as well as lane tracing assist and road sign assist (identifies and alerts to upcoming signage).
Toyota SA has yet to confirm when the new RAV4 will arrive on our shores but we would estimate towards the end of 2018/early 2019.
FAQ
Q: What does the new Toyota RAV4 cost in South Africa?
Toyota SA hasn't released official pricing yet since the fifth-generation RAV4 is expected to arrive in late 2018 or early 2019, but based on international pricing and our market trends, expect the base model to start around R450,000 with top-spec variants pushing towards R650,000.
Q: Is the new Toyota RAV4 worth buying over the current model?
Absolutely, the fifth-generation RAV4 is a complete game-changer with its revolutionary design, 57% stiffer chassis, three different AWD systems including Dynamic Torque Vectoring, and standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite that puts it leagues ahead of the outgoing model.
Q: What engine options will the new RAV4 have in South Africa?
While Toyota SA hasn't confirmed local engine lineup yet, expect the proven 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol and possibly the 2.5-litre hybrid system from international markets, with power outputs likely ranging from 127kW to 160kW depending on the variant.
Q: How does the new RAV4 compare to competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V?
The new RAV4's Multi-Terrain Select system, standard safety tech, and Toyota's legendary reliability give it a solid edge over the CX-5's driving dynamics and CR-V's interior space, making it the most well-rounded package in the compact SUV segment.
Q: When will the new Toyota RAV4 be available in South African dealerships?
Toyota SA estimates the fifth-generation RAV4 will land on our shores between late 2018 and early 2019, with pre-orders likely starting a few months before the official launch date.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, wait for it. The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 will be the best compact SUV under R550,000 in South Africa when it arrives. With its revolutionary design, 57% stiffer platform, three AWD systems, and comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite as standard, this RAV4 leapfrogs the competition in one giant stride. Sure, you'll wait until early 2019, but considering Toyota's bulletproof reliability and this generation's massive improvements over rivals like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V, it's worth holding off your purchase. The current RAV4 suddenly looks very dated next to this technological tour de force.
