New RAV4 (Recreational Active Vehicle w/4WD) offers more of everything in 2019
RAV4 fourth generation is already the number-one-selling vehicle in the Toyota lineup and a leader in its segment. Looking to continue that leadership, coming in 2019 is an all-new RAV4 fifth generation that Toyota says has more of everything for the consumer at every level.
This first look at the New York Auto Show is short a lot of specific detail and performance metrics that will be important to buyers, but here is what we know at this time.
New Platform
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is built on the latest Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform enabling a stronger (both physical and visual) persona in a tougher and more capable RAV4. A longer wheelbase and wider front and rear tracks improve ride stability. Shorter front and rear overhangs and a raised ground clearance add to its off-road prowess
Improved Powertrains
There are two powerplants available with three drivetrain systems.
Gasoline – A new Dynamic Force 2.5L four cylinder mated to an 8-speed Direct-Shift Automatic transmission will power the five gas models. The new 8-speed (prior gen was a 6-speed) has direct lockup from gears two through 8 for continuous torque converter power and smooth shifting.
There are two AWD configurations available for the gas models. For Limited and Adventure there will be a Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Rear Driveline Disconnect that can send up to 50 percent of torque to the rear wheels and distribute it left or right for better handling.
All other gas versions will feature a non-dynamic torque vectoring AWD system.
Hybrid – A Dynamic Force 2.5L four-cylinder engine with Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission will power the four hybrid models.
The hybrids will feature an improved All-Wheel Drive with Intelligence (AWD-i) which increases torque by 30 percent (compared to current version) to the electrically driven rear wheels – depending on road conditions.
Multiple Model Choices
Model choices in 2019 will include:
XSE Hybrid is new to the RAV4 hybrid lineup. Tuned for performance with sport-tuned suspension, tauter shock absorbers and springs along with sport-expressive features like piano-black accents across the front, mirror caps, fender arches and lower rockers plus hybrid exclusive projector headlamps, this hybrid powered RAV4 will roll.
RAV4 XSE Hybrid will have a standard two-tone paint scheme with black roof over four body-color choices including a new Blueprint.
Adventure is back more rugged and capable than before. With standard high-rise roof rails and large over fenders, more aggressive grille, fog light surrounds and unique wheel designs, this RAV4 be ready for the outback.
Equipped with the Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Driveline Disconnect and including Multi-Terrain select as standard for tackling snow, mud, sand or rocks, it will handle the challenges.
Adventure will offer the two-tone look as well with an Ice Edge colored roof paired with one of three colors. Full body color options like the popular Super White and Ruby Flare Pearl will continue.
Limited, of course, is the top grade RAV4. Featuring 19-inch alloy wheels and chrome accents, the standard equipment includes front-row moonroof, 8-way power adjustable driver seat, a new 7-inch Multi-Information Display and the newly developed Digital Display Rear View Mirror than can display a wide angle rear camera view to provide a clearer picture behind.
Optional features include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, panoramic moonroof and hands-free power liftgate.
Three Media Choices
Standard on every 2019 RAV4 is the Entune 3.0 Audio System with a 7-inch touchscreen atop the center stack.
Available options include Entune 3.0 Audio Plus that adds an 8-inch touchscreen and SiriusXM. Entune 3.0 Premium Audio adds more capability with an embedded navigation functionality.
There is an available JBL Audio system with 800 watts of power, 8-channels and 11-speakers. Crafted for RAV4, it has 2-Horn Tweeters in the A-pillar, 2-Wide Dispersion Instrument Panel Speakers, 2-Wide Dispersion Front Door Speakers, 2-Full Range Rear Door Speakers and a rear quarter Ported Subwoofer – all enhanced with JBL Clari-Fi Technology.
Connectivity and other technology include up to five USB ports in the cabin and an available Qi wireless charging tray in the front center console.
Enhanced Safety Technology
Standard on the 2019 RAV4 is the second- generation Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0) system with new active-safety technologies and capability.
Totally new is Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) for highway and freeway driving. Enabled by the Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), it uses the white or yellow lane markings or the path of the preceding vehicle, to actively track to the center of the lane.
Also new is Road Sign Assist (RSA) that identifies sign types and alerts the driver audibly or visually on the Multi-information display.
Other features of TSS 2.0 include:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD adds nighttime pedestrian and daytime bicyclist detection to alert drivers and apply brakes when necessary to avert collisions.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA) is enhanced to detect the edge of the road along with lane markers to assist in maintaining vehicle lane position.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full-Speed DRCC) adaptive cruise control features enhanced speed, cut-in and distance control and now includes Turn Signal Link control.
- Automatic High Beam Control (AHB)
Equipped with backup camera, the 2019 RAV4 has eight air bags and Toyota’s Star Safety System with enhanced features – Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Anti-lock Brakes, Brake Assist and Smart Stop Technology. Also, standard are Backup Camera and Electronic Parking Brake.
Available are Bird’s Eye View Camera, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Braking and Intelligent Clearance Sonar.
When and how much
The all-new 2019 RAV4 small SUV will be arriving at the end of 2018 (gas models) with the hybrid models in the first quarter of 2019.
More detailed information by model and performance metrics will be available – along with pricing – closer to launch. When we have that information at inwheeltime.com, we will share it with you.
Since the 2019 models are months away, take a look at the 2018 lineup of RAV4 small SUV’s. They are great performers. Check them out here https://www.toyota.com/rav4/
