Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4 Overview

The cumulative sales figures for the Toyota RAV4 SUV surpassed 10 million units by the end of February 2020, spanning five generations since its first introduction in 1994. Simply put, the Toyota RAV4 is the world’s best-selling SUV and by some margin.

Back in Malaysia, the competitive mid-size SUV segment has always been dominated by the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5. Despite its global popularity, the Toyota RAV4 is relatively unheard of in Malaysia, and not surprisingly so due to its long absence from our market. This RAV4 is therefore UMW Toyota Motor’s answer in an attempt of changing the Malaysian mid-size SUV scene.

Based on Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform that also underpins the new eighth generation Toyota Camry, the new fifth generation Toyota RAV4 emphasises on a more stable and well-balanced chassis for better ride and handling.

Malaysia currently has the sole RM215,664 2.5 L variant. As a CBU unit imported directly from Japan, it will prove to be an uphill battle going up against the popular and cheaper priced Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5. Other rivals include the likes of the Volkswagen Tiguan, Nissan X-Trail and the local favourite, the Proton X70.

Toyota RAV4 Design

Based on the same platform that also underpins the newly launched Toyota Harrier, the Toyota RAV4 is nearly identical in size with its elegant and luxury counterpart. But unlike the Harrier, the Toyota RAV4 is ruggedly styled with creases and sharp lines to make up its polygonal exterior.

The more utilitarian approach is evidenced by the extensive use of black plastic cladding on the front and rear bumpers and along the sides.

The empty space between the wheel-well emphasizes the tall ride height despite being fitted with 225/60/R18 profile tyres. Shark fin type antenna, rear spoiler and the dual exhaust pipe adds a sporty touch to the overall design.

Six colours are available here: Dark Blue Mica, Attitude Black, Red Mica, White Pearl CS, Silver Metallic and Gray Metallic.

Toyota RAV4 Dimension

At first glance, the Toyota RAV4 appears to be larger in size than the Honda CR-V. But the Honda CR-V is in fact longer and taller though only marginally. The spacious 580 litre boot space (1,680 maximum with rear seats folded) on the other hand trumps its competition by quite a significant margin.

Toyota RAV4 Interior

The interior continues the exterior's blockiness, with straight lines amidst familiar design cues.

Thanks to the TNGA platform, the sitting position is relatively low compared to conventional SUVs like the CR-V. Genuine leather seats with horizontal quilting elevates the premium feel of the spacious cabin. Polygonal motives continue on the inside, demonstrated by the elaborate cup holder design.

What immediately stands out on the centre console are the bulky rotary dials for the climate control emulating the robust and rugged dials usually found in off road SUVs. All the touch points are beautifully finished with combination of leather, soft touch materials, and trims with brushed aluminium effect.

Driver gets three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel with a 7-inch multi-info display flanked by analog tachometer on the left and fuel/temperature gauge on the right. A primary 7-inch infotainment touch screen display sits above the dashboard in your direct line of sight.

Toyota RAV4 Features

Standard equipment includes 7-inch infotainment display with DVD player with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, wireless charging, 6-speaker audio system, Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control with Seat Ventilation (Driver and front passenger only), 8-way driver’s adjustable leather seat with lumbar support with memory function, 60:40 split-folding rear seats that recline, and two-level adjustable cargo floorboard.

Convenience features like Smart Entry and Start System, Driving Modes (Normal, Eco, Sport), 3D Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Digital Video Recorder (DVR) are also available as standard on the Toyota RAV4.

Safety comes courtesy of Toyota Safety sense which comes loaded with high tech features which include Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) for all speeds, Automatic High Beam, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TC), Tyre Pressure Warning System and 7 SRS Airbags.

Toyota RAV4 Driving Performance

Engine

Our sole variant is powered by Toyota’s A25A-FKS 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine pushing out 207 PS at 6600 RPM and 243 NM of torque from 5000 RPM. The same engine can also be found on the new Toyota Camry as well as the Lexus ES.

Toyota claims that the new engine provides a more responsive acceleration with higher engine output, along with combustion efficiency to deliver superior fuel economy.

Transmission

Power is sent to the front wheels via a Direct Shift 8-speed Automatic with Sequential Shiftmatic for the 2.5 L.

Toyota RAV4 Ride Comfort

Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) with lighter body construction and lower centre of gravity promises greater stability and superior handling quality without compromising ride comfort.

Trailing Wishbone Rear Suspension system allows the Toyota RAV4 to handle uneven surfaces with greater sophistication. Ride is supple over bumps and comfortable without being overly soft.

Toyota RAV4 Fuel Consumption

According to our instrumented tests, the average fuel economy is 8.913L/100km

Toyota RAV4 Conclusion

The Toyota RAV4 is no doubt an impressive mid-size SUV that ticks all the right boxes. It is more than capable of going head-to-head with the reigning champion in Malaysia, the Honda CR-V. But unfortunately, at two times the price of a Proton X70,  the ‘Made in Japan’ label may not do much to justify the hefty price tag. If practicality is your biggest concern, the Honda CR-V will more than satisfy your need. And if refinement, luxury and power is what you are after, the 2.5 L turbocharged Mazda CX-5 can offer better refinement and performance without breaking your bank. The Toyota RAV4 offers a proposition that is in between but with a price point that is beyond the other two.