New Toyota RAV4 Replaces Style Icon

Toyota is to replace one of the motoring icons of the 1990s with a brand new vehicle for the 21st century. The all-new Toyota RAV4 receives its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2000 prior to going on sale in Europe later this summer.

New RAV4 builds on the strengths of the innovative and trend-setting original leisure off-roader. It also benefits from Toyota’s worldwide reputation for quality and robustness combined with the company’s extensive expertise in building class leading off-road vehicles.

The new RAV4 takes into account the current fashion styles and further expands the segment that it first created. It has been re-engineered in line with Toyota’s ‘intelligent engineering’ philosophy to offer customers better performance, better fuel economy and lower emissions. Inside, the RAV4 delivers even more space with a quieter and smoother ride.

New RAV4 is lighter, faster and more economical than other vehicles in the segment. At the same time it manages to be more spacious, more comfortable and more enjoyable to drive. And new RAV4 customers will find they have a choice of engine size and drivetrain.

NEW STYLING

The new RAV4 draws its styling cues from the familiar model it replaces but has a more rounded shape and a more powerful, mature, individual look. The deep front spoiler and rear bumper create a true ‘off-road’ feel and the trademark Toyota grille and headlamps are more prominent.

The rear quarter panels are more rounded but the car retains its distinctive forward-poised look and the rising waistline creates a sense of motion and purpose. Prominent flared wheel arches are a feature and the overall design is both modern and striking.

MORE SPACE

New RAV4 will be available as either a three-door or five-door model and retains its compact overall length. Passenger space and comfort have been increased by lengthening the wheelbase and improving interior height and width.

New RAV4 is the most spacious car in its class and offers greatly improved luggage carrying capacity, even in the three-door model. There is also more head, shoulder and legroom for passengers with the five-door model seating five adults in comfort.

Interior design is also more flexible, giving real MPV-type modularity. The rear seats can now slide backwards or forwards, fold, tumble or be removed altogether.

CHOICE OF VVT-i ENGINES

The new RAV4 will be available with a choice of engines: a 1.8-litre VVT-i engine (1ZZ-FE) developing 92kW and a 2.0-litre VVT-i engine (1AZ-FE) developing around 110 kW. Both engines will benefit from Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology which offers outstanding performance, increased mid-range torque and improved fuel economy.

The 2.0-litre version retains the popular permanent four-wheel drive transmission from the existing car while the 1.8 litre is available as a front wheel drive model only.

The two models will be visually similar, offering buyers of the 1.8-litre a value-for-money package with reduced running costs.

Both RAV4s will have the best power-to-weight ratio in their class with excellent acceleration and performance from either engine.

Both cars will be available with a five-speed manual gearbox while a four speed automatic will be an option on the 2.0-litre model.

EXCELLENT ROADHOLDING

The original RAV4 set new standards in Sports Utility ride and handling – often favourably compared to a GTI hatchback – new RAV4 builds on this reputation.

The all-round independent suspension has been retained with the addition of a rear anti-roll bar to improve cornering performance. Double wishbone suspension is retained at the rear and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution will be standard on five-door models.

Wind noise, road noise and aerodynamic drag have all been improved to make new RAV4 sound and feel like a true passenger car.

Passenger and driver Safety Restraint System (SRS) airbags, pre-tensioned front seat belts with force limiters, and side impact beams are all part of a comprehensive safety package. In most markets rear seat passengers get three-point seatbelts. In addition the front seats of the new RAV4 are both equipped with Toyota’s whiplash injury lessening (WIL) seats. The seat frame design, headrest position, seatback construction and recline lock feature all help reduce the risk of whiplash injury in low speed rear-end collisions.

STYLISH & SPORTY INTERIOR

As well as being more spacious, the new RAV4 interior is also more robust and more stylish. The dashboard and centre cluster have been redesigned to create a sportier environment. Metallic rings border the combination meter’s three white-faced main dials, and the use of metallic colours emphasises the car’s off road sports pedigree. A three-spoke sports steering wheel is fitted.

An in-car navigation system, together with full audio equipment, is optional. Automatic air conditioning will also be an option. Practical interior features include numerous convenient storage spaces, cup holders and pockets.

ON SALE SOON

New RAV4 will be introduced to European markets later this year. Full product details and more specifications will be issued nearer the time.

ENDS