Sharper Than Ever

Toyota RAV4 fifth gen takes some bold steps

- Micky Baker

Even before actually assessing the car, it’s fair to say that the immense hype around the all-new Toyota RAV4 isn’t unwarranted. For more than two decades, the RAV4 has de ned a segment that it kick-started, and ve generations later, it’s still easy to see why.

Initially envisioned as the ‘Recreational Activity Vehicle 4WD’, it has evolved into something a little more sophisticated as time has passed, and the new range has levelled-up with new engines, premium interiors, improved safety features, and an upgraded AWD system.

In line with international standards, diesel engines have been dropped in favour of new 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol units, which produce 127kW and 152kW respectively. That’s a signi cant improvement on the previous petrol engine... and despite that, consumption has been reduced to combined averages of 6.8L/100km and 7.3L/100km.