For 2016, the Toyota RAV4 gets a refresh and a new hybrid powertrain. So what will America’s mild-mannered crossover customers have to pay for the country’s third-most-popular SUV? The base front-wheel drive LE starts at $25,250, or $670 more than 2015. Let’s go through the rest of the roster.
-All 2016 RAv4 models get the familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder that brings 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, and which is coupled to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel-drive models get an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city/31 mpg highway, while all-wheel drive versions ($1400 more regardless of trim) are a few steps behind at 22/29. The new hybrid, which is only available on XLE and Limited trims, includes an Atkinson-cycle version of the four-banger along with a second rear-mounted axle motor for all-wheel drive. With the CVT and its unspecified nickel-metal-hydride battery pack, the hybrid is good for 194 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. Toyota also claims it knocks a full second off the sprint to 60 mph versus the regular model, as well as achieves 34/31 EPA ratings when going gentler on the gas pedal. That Toyota is even bragging about 0-to-60-mph for its hybrid is worthy news.
-Standard on the LE are 17-inch steel wheels, a 6.1-inch touch screen for infotainment functions, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, voice recognition, and the usual power accessories. Trailer sway control, hill-hold assist, and a brake-based limited-slip functionality (which, when engaged under 25 mph, doesn’t cut the throttle) also are standard.
- -For $27,170, XLE models bring a higher-res 6.1-inch touch screen with the ability to pair an aftermarket nav smartphone app to the car, HD and SiriusXM radio, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The XLE hybrid, at $29,270, is priced $700 over the regular all-wheel-drive XLE and features smaller, 17-inch wheels.
-The new SE trim ($30,165) brings a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, LED headlamps and taillamps, a stouter front bumper, and two-tone paint choices that combine silver lower trim with black, white, or blue body colors. SE models also deliver contrast stitching on Toyota’s synthetic leather, SofTex (think MB-Tex, in that it’s more durable and easier to clean than real leather). Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert is standard.
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- Official Photos and Info: 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
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The top-end Limited, at $32,410, packs a suite of driver assists called Toyota Safety Sense. These include auto-braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, auto high beams, and lane-departure warning. Push-button start, a frameless rearview mirror with HomeLink garage openers, heated front seats with eight-way power adjustments for the driver, a power liftgate, and more SofTex trim are part of the deal. An even-larger 7.0-inch touch screen with navigation and Entune App Suite (such as Bing, OpenTable, and other smartphone-linked services) comes included. The Limited hybrid maxes out at $34,510, although further options—such as the 360-degree camera system with what Toyota calls a “live rotating” view around the vehicle—likely can push the price higher.
- -Agya Club Indonesia