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The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most anticipated SUVs in its segment which keeps being in top five regarding sales besides the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. For those who want a vehicle with a spacious interior, attractive styling, and excellent fuel efficiency, they should definitively check it out. However, if you are looking for a compact crossover SUV with serious off-road capability, then the Jeep Cherokee or Subaru Forester could be more convenient. The RAV4 is equipped with a 4-cylinder unit, which is sufficiently strong and more important more fuel economical. As well, it is capable enough for mild off-road adventures. The current model is now in its fourth generation. But there is also the new generation model which will hit the market as the 2019 Toyota RAV4.
The current generation has been present on the market since 2013 when it has been majorly refreshed. The last model from this, the fourth generation has arrived as the 2018 model year and has brought some minor but important changes. First of all, the carmaker has added a new trim called Adventure which includes larger 18-inch wheels and 120-volt outlet and provides better ground clearance. As well, there is the new optional Cold Weather package with a heated steering wheel, windshield wiper de-icers, and heated front seats. There is also a Tow Prep package which delivers more towing capacity of 2,900 pounds when connected with front-wheel drive system. However, with all-wheel drive system, it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
New for 2019
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 will represent the fifth generation model and it will bring improvements in all segments. As well, the carmaker will offer a hybrid variant once again. However, the hybrid model will be available after the standard model goes on sale. And perhaps we might see a fully electric variant of the RAV4 which has been discontinued back in 2015.
So, the 2019 model year will ride on the new platform which will change its dimensions. It will be wider and will sit lower. As for the exterior styling, the new Toyota will feature a more SUV-like look, more chrome details, and optional larger wheels. Inside the cabin, the RAV4 will offer more space, particularly for the occupants on the rear seats, upgraded technology, and more simple design. As for the engine, it will now get an upgraded 4-cylinder unit which will provide more horsepower, for about 15 percent, and the new transmission too. The hybrid will be available too.
Engines and performances of the 2019 Toyota RAV4
Under the bonnets of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 will be placed the same 2.5-liter inline-4 engine which in the current version can make 176 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. However, this unit will be revised for more power, for around 15 percent, meaning that the new RAV4 will deliver more than 200 horses. This unit will no longer use a 6-speed automatic but instead an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
On the other hand, the hybrid variant will pair a 2.5-liter inline-4 with an electric motor. And together will be able to make 194 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. This engine will work with a continuously variable transmission. The front-wheel drive will be standard on the base trim while the all-wheel drive will be standard on the higher trims.
The new platform and external appearance
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 will be moved to the Toyota New Global Architecture used in the Prius, Camry, and Avalon models. Because of the new platform, the RAV4 will now be lower and wider, and will also feature extended wheelbase. But despite the increase in size, this won’t affect its weight. And it will make it more dynamic than its forerunner and even slightly lighter.
As for the exterior design, the new Toyota will look more like a traditional SUV with sharp lines and new proportions. The front fascia will get a more angular design and will feature optional LED headlamps. Its profile will also look sharper. We will notice more black and chrome details in the front, fenders, and side-view mirrors. Furthermore, it will be offered with the optional 19-inch wheels. The hybrid model will be available with the two-tone paint combination.
Interior of the 2019 Toyota RAV4
The cabin of the newest 2019 Toyota RAV4 will receive more simple design but also be upgraded with the latest technology. As well, it will be roomier. And it will provide more head and leg room for the passengers in the rear seats. The dashboard will be slightly larger and will get a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen for Entune 3.0 infotainment system. However, an 8.0-inch display will be optional.
Furthermore, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 will offer plenty of standard and optional features. Some of the options will include a panoramic moonroof, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, SiriusXM radio, and so on. As well, the Toyota’s latest Safety Sense suite of features will be standard.
Release date and price
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 should enter the market at the end of 2018. Its price should start at around $24,500 while the hybrid will be roughly $27,300.
