The new Toyota RAV4 PHEV has been launched in Japan and adopts the new Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). The hybrid system has a combined maximum power output of 225 kW or 306 PS. Managing 0 -100 km/h in 6.0 seconds (A Mercedes E350 does it in 5.9 seconds), the RAV4 is also equipped with Toyota’s E-Four electric 4WD system.

The gasoline engine itself is a 2.5 L (A25A-FXS) 4-cylinder with a maximum power output of 177 PS. The front motor and rear motor have maximum power outputs of 182 PS and 54 PS respectively. Although the individual numbers add up to a whopping 413 PS, the system’s maximum power output is an ample 306 PS.

Using the batteries only, the RAV4 PHEV has a driving range of 95 km. With the hybrid mode combining a 55 L gasoline tank and an 18.1 kWh battery, a cruising range of 1,300 km can be achieved. The RAV4 adopts the TGNA platform (GA-K) and the lithium ion battery is installed under the floor in the centre of the vehicle.

The new RAV4 comes with Toyota Safety Sense, which employs a pre-collision safety system that detects pedestrians at day and night. It is also equipped with Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Parking Support Brakes (Stationary Objects) that helps reduce and/or mitigate damage from collisions during low-speed driving.

Although the Toyota RAV4 will be launched in Malaysia on 18 June, the PHEV Toyota RAV4 will not be entering our market anytime soon.