New 2019 Toyota RAV4

New Toyota RAV4 revealed with hybrid powertrain and design cues from the FT-AC concept

Toyota has revealed a new fifth generation RAV4 SUV at the 2018 New York Motor Show, which will head to Europe early next year.
The new RAV4 is taller and wider than the previous generation model, complete with a stockier redesign inspired by the FT-AC concept revealed at the Los Angeles Motor Show last year.
At 4,600mm in length it’s very slightly longer too, but 30mm has been added to the wheelbase, freeing up more room for passengers in the cabin. The front and rear overhangs have also been reduced, while Toyota claims a big leap in ride clearance.

The new RAV4 will be available with two TNGA powertrains - a 2.5-litre hybrid electric and a new 2.0-litre petrol, both of which are claimed to be more powerful and fuel efficient than those in use on the current RAV4. A European engine line-up has not yet been announced, however.

The 2.5-litre hybrid uses a brand new electric motor drive, which Toyota claims uses the battery power more effectively while also using a second electric motor to drive the rear wheels on battery power alone.

 

The 2.0-litre petrol model features an improved mechanical all-wheel drive system and will be available with a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes.
This will be the first RAV4 to be built using the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. Toyota says that the switch to the platform reduces the RAV4’s centre of gravity and gives a better weight distribution. TNGA is already is use on the Prius, CH-R and new Auris. The first new RAV4’s will hit the UK and Europe in the first quarter of 2019.