In 1994, Toyota’s launch of the original RAV4 introduced a new kind of car to the world, one that combined the go-anywhere performance and rugged stance of an SUV with compact dimensions and handling more akin to a hatchback
The same pioneering spirit is witnessed in the all-new fifth generation RAV4, which makes its first European appearance at the Paris Motor Show. This is a model which takes the SUV into a new era of performance, capability and safety, advances that are underpinned by the first use of a TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform in an SUV and a powerful new design.
With its low centre of gravity and significantly increased body rigidity, the new RAV4’s GA-K platform directly contributes to superior handling, ride comfort, a spacious interior, class-leading load space and the freedom to produce a strong, eye-catching design with lower roof and bonnet lines and higher ground clearance. As well as providing more space and comfort, the cabin displays exceptional quality and finish throughout.
The new RAV4 remains unique in its class in offering customers a self-charging hybrid electric powertrain – the choice of an overwhelming majority of customers in Western Europe (85 per cent in 2018). The new 2.5 litre, 219bhp TNGA hybrid powertrain will strengthen customer appeal, delivering step-changes in power, responsiveness and efficiency, with best-in-class fuel economy and emissions levels.
At the same time, RAV4’s all-wheel drive systems have been comprehensively improved to achieve a “drive on any road” capability. The new RAV4 Hybrid’s electric AWD system has been re-engineered and enhanced to provide a much stronger performance in challenging conditions and secure handling on slippery surfaces.
The new RAV4 is also the first Toyota to benefit from additional Toyota Safety Sense features that extend the use of advanced technologies to help prevent accidents and provide greater driver assistance, including systems that introduce a degree of automated driving.
TOYOTA NEW GLOBAL ARCHITECTURE PLATFORM
The foundation of the new RAV4’s dynamic qualities is its all-new TNGA platform. This gives the car the core strengths of a low centre gravity, light weight and a strong, rigid and balanced chassis that delivers exceptional handling, stability and driver rewards.
For the customer this makes the car more fun to drive, while at the same time enabling design freedom inside and out, enhanced safety performance that gives greater peace of mind and more comfort for everyone on board.
The lowest possible centre of gravity is achieved by making every component lighter and locating it lower down in the vehicle – everything from the engine to the seats in the cabin. The platform also allows for a 57 per cent increase in body rigidity, which contributes to a stable, flat ride with superior handling.
The TNGA platform underpins the “confident and natural” driving quality Toyota has sought for the new model: “confident” in not reacting adversely to disturbances and communicating a sense of stability, and “natural” in its intuitive, natural response to the driver’s inputs. Beyond the benefits of the chassis itself, further detailed measures make important contributions to its overall quality, with Toyota’s top engineers leading the development of the new RAV4’s dynamic performance, fine-tuning the handling and driveability.
For example, the design and location of the fuel tank have been changed to achieve better handling and stability. The tank is now located laterally in front of the rear axle so that its load is spread evenly between the wheels, supporting flat, stable performance. Optimum weight balance is not only achieved front-to-rear (51/49) but also left-to-right.
Response from the electric power steering has been improved by moving the assist motor from the column to the rack. The result is more linear increase in steering input torque and less strain on the steering shaft, which communicates a better, more direct feel to the driver as the steering loads up and gives more faithful line tracing through corners. Summer-specification tyres are used in place of the all-weather type, further adding to the precise driving quality and achieving top-class braking distances.
The RAV4’s TNGA platform also distinguishes itself in its use of a double wishbone rear suspension system. Thanks to the low centre of gravity and high body rigidity, the suspension does not have to be rendered stiffer to meet dynamic targets. Nonetheless, precise adjustments have been made to the rear suspension to focus on better ride comfort, including a more upright setting for the shock absorbers and optimisation of the locating point for the trailing arms.
Handling is thus agile, faithful and neutral, giving the driver confidence with accurate responses to the driver’s use of the steering wheel and throttle pedal and optimised shift patterns.
CONCEPT AND DESIGN
The TNGA platform was of great benefit to Toyota’s designers in their mission to give the new RAV4 a strong SUV character and styling that sets it apart from other models in its segment.
The fact that TNGA introduces so many standardised parts “under the skin” simplifies the development process, giving the designers more time and scope to create an all-new look, inside and out. The exterior lines and detailing in the cabin are influenced by regular, polygonal shapes, communicating strength and coherence.
The powerful design combines with the unique new self-charging hybrid electric powertrain to give the new RAV4 the stand-out qualities required to attract customers in a highly competitive marketplace, in particular conquest sales to people new to the model and the Toyota brand.
Key elements in generating this impact include raising the ground clearance (+15mm), using large diameter wheels and making the car suitable for multiple types of use.
The exterior look is powerful and individual, with a solid form that extends from the front of the vehicle along the sides to the rear, giving the sense of a strong mass and authentic SUV capabilities. At the front the emphasis is on width and strength with extra volume added to the lower bumper section, and there is a similar effect at the rear where the horizontal line created by the tail lights and back window angles sharply downwards at each edge, drawing the eye towards the rear wheels and expressing the “polygon” influence on the design.
The cabin is characterised by high sensory quality throughout and precision execution. Soft-touch surfaces abound, including the dashboard and door panels. Consistent patterns, textures, colours and ambient lighting are applied, with symmetrical shapes and use of the polygon motif seen in the Toyota FT-AC concept model. Switchgear is new, too, with cleanly integrated buttons and pleasingly tactile controls, such as the button/dial to adjust the air conditioning.
The low-set instrument panel – a further benefit of the TNGA platform – has powerful horizontal lines that flow into the door panels, emphasising the cabin’s generous width and giving the driver a clearer view of the road ahead. A larger, open centre console between the front seats is in keeping with a welcoming, functional SUV interior. Special attention was paid to providing plenty of useful and easily accessible storage for the driver and front passenger.
The TNGA platform helps secure impressive cabin space, best-in-class load space and all-round comfort. Reducing the front and rear overhangs by a combined 35mm (-5mm front, -30mm rear) means the new model is shorter overall by 5mm (4,600mm) and retains its agile manoeuvrability, yet the wheelbase has been increased by 30mm (2,690mm), securing a more spacious cabin.
To add to the new model’s purposeful, wide stance, overall width has grown by 10mm (1,855mm) and the front and rear treads have been increased. At the same time, overall height has been brought down by 10mm (to 1,650mm).
On-board comfort and convenience
Securing better all-round visibility was a key consideration in RAV4’s design process. The TNGA platform allows the bonnet to sit 15mm lower, adding two degrees to the driver’s forward field of vision, and the external mirrors have been moved to a lower position on the front doors. The front pillars have been made slimmer, the belt line has been lowered and the rearward view from the driver’s seat has been improved by enlarging the rear side windows and making a new digital rear-view mirror available (further details in the Equipment section).
The driver’s comfort and sense of control when at the wheel are important considerations, and the new TNGA chassis allows for a more engaging driving position, without detracting from the commanding view of the road that’s a defining quality of SUVs. The driver’s hip point has been lowered by 15mm, but the range of steering wheel adjustment has been increased by 50 per cent. This, together with a generous seat adjustment range and precise positioning of the pedals and armrest, ensures more customers are able to find their ideal position when driving.
Comfort for rear seat passengers has been improved with 40mm added to the left/right couple distance, more spacious rear footwells and two air vents. Increasing the opening angle of the rear doors and reducing the distance from the hip point to the rocker panel makes getting into and out of the vehicle and access to child seats easier.
The load space behind the rear seats has been made larger and more user-friendly, notably thanks to a fully flat floor and a length extended by 60mm to secure best-in-class capacity, 79 litres more than in the current RAV4. Flexibility is designed-in so that the space can easily be adapted to gain more cargo room when required: with the rear seats folded down, the new RAV4 can accommodate a 29-inch mountain bike without any wheels having to be removed.
There is a height-adjustable, two-level deck board that can be reversed when dirty items need to be carried. The rear seats have a 60:40 split-folding function and there are storage nets on each side of the boot. Clever details include a hand grip on the tailgate that can serve as a hanger and a power-operated tailgate with hands-free function.
POWERTRAINS AND PERFORMANCE
The new RAV4 will be available with two TNGA powertrains, both more powerful and fuel-efficient than those in the current model.
The new 2.5 litre RAV4 Hybrid combines fuel and emissions efficiency and quiet operation with more power and greater responsiveness.
The full system maximum output of 219b hp/163 kW compares to 19bhp/45 kW for the current model, signalling how Toyota’s latest self-charging hybrid technology is not lacking in strength; acceleration from rest to 62mph takes just 8.1 seconds.
This proposal of “power with no compromise” gives the new RAV4 a unique advantage in its class and, with the benefit of its improved performance, driveability and efficiency, this powertrain option is expected to account for an even greater proportion of sales. Toyota predicts that this will rise from the current 85 per cent to 90 per cent for the new model in Western Europe. A new 2.0-litre petrol engine will also be available, with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions.
Toyota’s fourth generation self-charging hybrid electric system makes its debut in the RAV4, bringing with it multiple benefits. Key components, including the power control unit (PCU) and the nickel metal-hydride battery are more compact and lighter in weight, and have been engineered to reduce electrical and mechanical losses.
The powertrain makes use of Toyota’s new 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine, a four-cylinder unit with direct and indirect injection that targets best-in-class fuel consumption and emissions for the new RAV4. Toyota expects combined cycle fuel economy to be 62.8mpg* (correlated NEDC) with CO2 emissions from as low as 102 g/km* (correlated NEDC). For the driver, the results are better acceleration from stationary, improved efficiency at higher speeds and overall smoother and more linear acceleration.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Toyota is introducing improvements in the all-wheel drive technology in the new RAV4 to deliver enhanced performance, capabilities and control in all driving conditions, adding to the model’s “go anywhere” spirit and driving pleasure. Its impressive AWD performance on-road and off will further distinguish the new RAV4 among its competitors, with secure cornering performance and grip in all conditions.
RAV Hybrid with significantly enhanced electric AWD system
The new RAV4 Hybrid is equipped with a significantly enhanced and more capable electric AWD system that comes with no penalties: it returns better fuel economy in urban driving, quieter performance at high speeds and better traction in slippery conditions. It is also more compact and lighter in weight than mechanical AWD systems, so fuel consumption and vehicle packaging are not compromised
The system efficiently generates drive torque using power from the hybrid vehicle system and an additional motor generator on the rear axle. This design reduces energy losses, saves weight and optimises AWD operation in different driving conditions.
Compared to the current model, the level of torque that can be directed to the rear wheels has been increased by 30 per cent, enabling a front/rear split from 100:0 to up to 20:80, depending on driving conditions. Maximum torque to the rear wheels has increased from 953 to 1,300Nm, matching or even bettering torque achieved by mechanical systems and giving more surefooted performance, for example when pulling away on loose, slippery surfaces.
The electric AWD system automatically optimises this torque ratio according to driving conditions, providing improved handling, stability and off-road performance, particularly in faithful line tracing through bends in slippery conditions, giving the driver a strong feeling of all four wheels being in good contact with the road.
The mechanical all-wheel drive system on the new RAV4 2.0-litre petrol CVT model is equipped with Toyota’s first dynamic torque vectoring system with Rear Driveline Disconnect. This manages torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels using twin couplings on the rear axle to give stable performance and accurate response to the driver’s steering inputs when cornering, both in dry and slippery conditions.
AWD Integrated Management
The new RAV4’s AWD performance is further improved with the introduction of AWD Integrated Management (AIM), a unique feature in its class. This automatically adjusts different vehicle systems – steering assist, brake and throttle control, shift pattern and drive torque distribution – according to the drive mode selected. In the new RAV4 Hybrid, the driver can switch from Normal to Eco or Sport mode. When choosing Sport mode, AIM modifies the steering assist, throttle control shift schedule and drive torque distribution to gain better on-road performance.
Greater “escape” capability with Trail Mode
The RAV4 Hybrid gains a higher level of capability with the introduction of a new automatic limited-slip differential control – Trail Mode – which ensures the best possible grip and control in slippery conditions. It can also provide valuable assistance when tackling challenging off-road conditions.
With the current generation RAV4 Hybrid, there is a risk of the vehicle becoming stranded if a driven wheel loses contact with the ground on very uneven terrain. On the new model, by activating the Trail Mode (via a Drive mode selector on the centre console), the free rotating wheel can be braked and drive torque directed to the grounded wheel. Throttle control and the transmission shift pattern are also adapted to help the driver keep the vehicle moving.
EQUIPMENT AND ENHANCED TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE SYSTEMS
Equipment specifications for the new RAV4 will demonstrate how Toyota continues to apply technologies to deliver useful innovations in safety, technology, comfort and everyday practicality.
Features that will be available as standard or as options, according to model grade, will include a power-operated panoramic roof, ventilated seats, wireless charging for smartphones and up to five USB ports around the cabin for the connection of multiple devices.
Equipment features
The new RAV4 will offer generous equipment specifications across its range in Europe, with all models equipped as standard with the latest iteration of Toyota Safety Sense with an eCall emergency contact function. (Read more about Toyota Safety Sense in the dedicated chapter).
Even at entry level, the check-list will include 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, LED headlights, push-button start, a seven-inch display audio and 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display.
Features such as 18-inch alloys, smart entry, extensive soft touch cabin trims, larger display screens, leather upholstery, projector LED headlights, rear privacy glass and a power-operated tailgate will also be available.
Style grade for RAV4 Hybrid
The Style grade will stand out with its bi-tone paint finish, striking a contrast between the bodywork colour (a choice of four) and a black roof section, plus projector LED headlights and black 18-inch alloys. In the cabin sports-style seats, a black headlining and blue trim accents further emphasise the car’s distinctive quality. A wide range of option packs and accessories will be available so owners can equip their RAV4 to perfectly meet their lifestyle preferences.
New digital rear-view mirror
The new RAV4 helps drivers gain a better view of their surroundings with a new digital rear-view mirror – a Toyota first. It can be used as a conventional, electrochromic auto-dimming mirror, directly reflecting the road and traffic behind the car, or as a digital monitor with a much wider field of vision.
At the touch of a switch, it presents real-time images relayed from an adjustable, high-definition camera mounted high up on the RAV4’s back window. This ensures a clear view, for example when large items in the load space or tall rear-seat passengers obscure the driver’s line of sight. The camera also provides a wider field of vision and the driver can use touch controls to adjust the image, including a zoom function.
Panoramic View Monitor, panoramic sunroof and JBL audio system
Further premium features which will be available on the new RAV4 include a Panoramic View Monitor, which provides the driver with a real-time 360-degree view of the area immediately around the vehicle, including a bird’s eye aspect from above. This is of value both off-road, to better negotiate tricky terrain, and when manoeuvring in confined spaces where hazards can lurk outside the driver’s line of sight.
The open and spacious cabin environment can be further enhanced with an opening panoramic sunroof. Where on-board entertainment is concerned, Toyota has worked with premium audio partner JBL to deliver high-quality, immersive experience. The tailor-made new RAV4 JBL audio system will deliver concert sound quality through its nine-speaker architecture. It features JBL’s signature Horn Tweeters, a new, powerful subwoofer and an amplifier with Clari-FiTM digital music restoration technology.
RAV4 heritage and market success
The Toyota RAV4 started out as a pioneer, niche model but has gone from strength to strength to become one of the world’s best-selling vehicles. It can be credited with creating a whole new market segment, one in which today every major manufacturer is represented.
The model now sits at the heart of Toyota’s global business. Cumulative global sales across four generations since 1994 have reached more than 8.1 million, while in 2017 the current RAV4 was the world’s best-selling SUV and fourth best-selling model overall, with 810,953 sales.
In Europe, high customer demand for SUVs has seen the market increase four-fold in the past four years (accounting for 22.7 per cent of the new car market) and annual sales are expected to reach more than five million by 2023. Sales volumes in the D-SUV segment remain stable, at around 1.5 million a year.
1 Based on Regulation EC 2017/1153 as amended EC2017/1231 – pending final homologation.
NEW TOYOTA RAV4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
POWERTRAIN
HYBRID AWD
HYBRID FWD
Toyota Hybrid System
Full system output (bhp/kW)
219/163
215/160
ENGINE
Fuel type
Petrol
Petrol
Max. power (bhp/kW @ rpm)
175/130 @ 6,000
175/130 @ 6,000
Max. torque (Nm @ rpm)
221 @ 4,400
221 @ 4,400
PERFORMANCE
Acceleration 0-62mph (sec)
8.1
8.4
Max. speed (mph)
112
112
FUEL CONSUMPTION1
Combined cycle (NEDC correlated, mpg)
61.4
62.8
EMISSIONS1
Combined cycle (NEDC correlated, g/km)
105
102
WEIGHT
Kerb weight (min-max, kg)
1,645-1,730
1,590-1,680
DIMENSIONS
Overall length (mm)
4,600
4,600
Overall width (mm)
1,855
1,855
Overall height (mm)
1,685
1,685
Wheelbase (mm)
2,690
2,690
Ground clearance (mm)
190
190
Boot capacity (litres, VDA)
580
580
1 Based on Regulation EC 2017/1153 as amended EC 2017/1231 – pending final homologation.
NB: UK market specifications and details will be confirmed later and may vary from the information in this press kit
Huge congratulations to Blake O'Connor who has become the 40th Toyota Star Maker, joining the ranks of the Australian country music elite #TCMF2019.
For humanitarian aid workers working in remote areas, reliable transport is essential and workers must be confident that their vehicle and the essential supplies on board can get them to their destination and back to base again without difficulty There are some important lessons in vehicle maintenance from these expeditions that can be learnt by anyone planning a serious off road trip. Toyota Western, a dealer in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife, got together with engineering experts, Arctic Trucks, the all-terrain masterminds who were behind the Toyota Hilux Arctic Truck AT38 that conquered the North Pole, to give insights into the secrets of expedition vehicle maintenance. Russell Drew and Nick Cranfield, with 34 years of experience in expeditionary vehicle maintenance between them, advise: “If you and your equipment cannot reach your destination then you might as well remain at home. There are various scenarios which could jeopardise an expedition or field mission and expertise is only ever as useful as the vehicle you are travelling in. Here are Russell and Nick’s top 10 tips for effective expeditionary vehicle maintenance. Always conduct a ‘First Parade Check’ of the vehicle before use. Then, throughout the day carry out periodic checks. The nature of the terrain being traversed will determine the frequency of short stop checks. At the end of the day, or after use, the vehicle should be inspected, all fluids topped up and any damage or faults repaired and spare parts sourced. Doing this at the end of the day means you and your vehicle are prepared should you need to make a fast move during the night or early morning. Pay particular attention to tyre management. Off-road vehicles normally carry one spare, so tyres must be checked to ensure they are inflated to the correct pressure and have sustained no damage. Incorrect pressures increase fuel consumption, can affect vehicle handling and stability and make the tyres more susceptible to wear and tear. Regularly check tyre pressures and know when to over-inflate or deflate them to suit the terrain. As a rule of thumb, deflate the tyres to a lower pressure for surfaces such as sand and mud, as this gives a larger contact patch for better grip in these conditions. Remember to re-inflate the tyres when you return to normal road conditions though. Know your vehicle. You need to know which oils and fluids are specific to your vehicle. All fluid levels must be at maximum, not somewhere in between maximum and minimum. Keeping them fully topped up ensures the systems don’t become starved on rough terrain and provides the driver with a benchmark. A measurable pointer that can be monitored to indicate oil or coolant consumption can be useful. Inspect and test the vehicle’s tool kit regularly. Where does the jack go? Does it work? Can you remove all the wheelnuts if necessary? Can you remove the spare wheel and is it fit for purpose? Undo all the wheel nuts and retighten. Ensure you know that you can remove any wheel if necessary. Replace locking wheelnuts, which add complexity, with standard wheelnuts. Think about what would happen if you run out of fuel. Are there any special procedures to bleed and restart the fuel system? What measures can you take to prevent contaminated fuel from damaging the major engine components? After all, you may be in a situation where you have no choice but to refuel from a jerry can or a dubious fuel source. Identify the location of your fuse box and relays and carry spare fuses. If you need to, you can replace a fuse and can ‘borrow’ one from another circuit – for example, if the wiper fuse blows, it can be replaced with rear fog light fuse. Ensure you replace with a fuse of the same or lower current rating, because failure to do this can result in major component failure or, at worst, a vehicle wiring fire. Always check the recovery points on a vehicle. Identify the tie-down points and correct towing points (known as the rated recovery points). Are they fit for purpose? Recovery points can get damaged in rough terrain; you may need to consider alternative attachment points that will not damage the vehicle. Will the shackles in your vehicle’s kit fit the recovery points when you need them in an emergency? Secure all cargo inside the vehicle. All personal kit, supplies and vehicle recovery equipment must be strapped down. When ascending or descending slopes, loose kit can become a missile in a vehicle. Secure the cargo to avoid injury to the driver and passengers and damage to the vehicle interior by a hard object such as a case containing tools becoming airborne. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare. Get the basics right and the rest will follow easily. Just as you would carry a first aid kit in case of emergency, remember, the vehicle could save your life, so respect it. Carry enough basic kit to repair it, including a tyre repair kit and spare auxiliary drive belt and know how to use it all. As you progress on your drive, identify areas where potential repairs could be carried locally. Mark them on a navigation log – you may need to revisit them in the future. Vehicle selection is paramount. The first questions are: what vehicle is everyone using and why? The abundance of Toyotas throughout the developing world will indicate the key points of your vehicle selection. They are more reliable, less complicated and spares are easily acquired, even in remote areas. The Hilux and Land Cruiser models can often be maintained without the need for diagnostic equipment and therefore the complex cascade faults that can compromise a vehicle’s ability to perform in an arduous environment are eliminated.
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Race 3 highlights from the Newcastle 500 #T86RS.
Race 2 highlights from the Newcastle 500 #T86RS.
Interview with Declan Fraser from the Newcastle 500.
Newcastle Race 1 Highlights.
Newcastle 500 event preview #T86RS.
Toyota has today revealed the all-new Toyota Corolla Saloon, ready to join the 12th generation range alongside the new British-built Hatchback and Touring Sports models presented earlier this year at the Geneva and Paris motor shows All three Corolla models will be introduced in the UK during the first quarter of 2019, marking a welcome return for a Saloon version to the market here after a break of almost 15 years. Details of the UK range, specifications and prices will be announced nearer the on-sale date. Each car in the line-up is designed to fulfil different customer needs: the compact Hatchback aimed at young couples; the versatile Touring Sports for families; and the comfortable Saloon targeting young professionals who want more prestigious styling, on-board space and comfort. The Saloon will become part of the world’s best-selling model nameplate: more than 46 million Corolla cars have been sold worldwide since Toyota introduced the original model in 1966. The Saloon’s styling develops the sleek and dynamic look of the new Corolla line-up, sharing the wide and low stance that’s inherent in its use of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform. It stands apart, however, with different front and rear styling that projects a more prestigious look. The frontal treatment evolves Toyota’s “catamaran” design cues with a striking two-step rendering of the front corners, flanking a strongly projecting lower grille – a feature common to the new Corolla family. The slim upper grille has a pronounced three-dimensional design and connects with the top of the sharply designed headlamp units, wrapping around the corners to emphasise the car’s low and firmly planted appearance. The rear of the car echoes the look of the front through the shape of the bumper and the inverted trapezium design of the bootlid. The rear lamp clusters are specific to the Saloon and are connected by a chrome trim, which further highlights the car’s wide stance. The lights also have a light guide that gives the Saloon a distinctive illumination signature. The spacious and ergonomically excellent cabin is the same as that in the Hatchback and Touring Sports, hallmarked by its high sensory quality and advanced technologies. However, the Saloon has the same extended 2,700mm wheelbase as the Touring Sports, ensuring ample legroom and comfort for rear-seat passengers. Technology highlights include wireless phone charging and an intuitive and easy to use combination of eight-inch multimedia touchscreen, seven-inch multimedia display and 10-inch head-up display. As well as offering design freedom to create a greater distinction between Saloon, Hatchback and Touring Sports versions, the new GA-C platform also guarantees a more rewarding driving experience. A lower centre of gravity, a 60 per cent more rigid body shell and multi-link suspension as standard all contribute to better handling and stability, without compromising ride comfort. The Saloon will be available (according to market) with two powertrain options. The 120bhp/90kW 1.8-litre self-charging hybrid system gives the textbook intuitive and responsive performance customers have come to expect, together with self-sufficient EV all-electric driving capability that requires no plug-in recharging. Low cost of ownership is supported by outstanding fuel economy of 83.0mpg1(WLTP 65.7mpg) and CO2 emissions from just 77g/km1 (WLTP 98g/km). Up to 50 per cent2 of typical commuting journeys can be accomplished in all-electric drive. An improved 1.6-litre petrol engine combines responsiveness with efficiency. Available with either six-speed manual transmission or a CVT gearbox, it delivers 130bhp/97kW with fuel consumption from 48.7mpg1 (WLTP 46.3mpg) and CO2emissions from 131g/km1 (WLTP 139g/km). All Toyota’s TNGA vehicles prioritise the highest active and passive safety standards and the new Corolla Sedan benefits from the latest Toyota Safety Sense systems. These include Pre-Collision System that can detect pedestrians in the car’s path both in daylight and night-time driving, and also cyclists in daylight. Full-range Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with steering assist, Road Sign Assist and Automatic High Beam are also provided. In addition, a new Lane Tracing Assist system is introduced, giving the driver even more support. When the full-range Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist are active, the system makes subtle steering inputs to keep the vehicle centred in its traffic lane, even through gentle highway bends. The new Corolla Saloon is being built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey; Hatchback and touring Sports models are being produced by Toyota Manufacturing UK at its Burnaston plant in Derbyshire. 1 Based on Regulation EC 2017/1153 as amended EC 2017/1231 – pending final homologation 2 Depending on driving conditions
Toyota Gazoo Racing delighted a home crowd by delivering a one-two result in the 6 Hours of Fuji yesterday (14 October), the fourth round of the 2018-19 FIA World Endurance Championship The win was claimed by the No7 Toyota TS050 Hybrid of Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and José María López, which crossed the line 11.4 seconds ahead of team-mates Sébastien Buemi, Kazuki Nakajima and Fernando Alonso in the No8 car. It was the first win of the season for the No7 crew, in spite of their having started the race from eighth place on the grid. It was Toyota’s sixth win from seven WEC starts at its home circuit in Japan; for Conway and Kobayashi it was their first success since their victory at the same venue in 2016. López celebrated posting both the fastest lap of the race and his first win in the WEC since joining the team last season. Conway said: “It was not an easy race, especially starting from eighth, but our car performed really well and my team-mates did a fantastic job as usual. They were solid and consistent which was exactly what we needed. It’s great to get another win after coming so close for the last two years and to get it now at the home race is obviously great.” The race took place in a combination of heavy rain and drying conditions, calling for strategic tyre changes. A 30-minute safety car period further complicated the race, with the momentum swinging between the two Toyotas. López set the fastest lap on lap 153 while leading the race and maintained a stable gap at the front before handing the wheel to Kobayashi with half an hour left to run. The team are now focusing on repeating the result when the championship heads to China for the 6 Hours of Shanghai on 16 November, the final race of the year. The Fuji result extends Toyota Gazoo Racing’s lead in the teams’ World Championship to 14 points over Rebellion Racing. Buemi, Nakajima and Alonso stretched their advantage in the drivers’ standings, with Conway, Kobayashi and López moving up to second, 13 points behind. Race results 1st No7 Toyota Gazoo Racing 230 laps 2nd No8 Toyota Gazoo Racing +11.440secs 3rd No1 Rebellion (Jani/Lotterer/Senna) +4 laps 4th No11 SMP (Aleshin/Petrov/Button) +11 laps 5th No4 ByKolles (Webb/ Dillmann/Rossiter) +11 laps 6th No37 Jackie Chan (Jaafar/Tan/Jeffri) +13 laps
Bathurst Race 3 Interviews.
Bathurst Race 3 Highlights #T86RS.
Bathurst Race 2 highlights #T86RS.
In 1994, Toyota’s launch of the original RAV4 introduced a new kind of car to the world, one that combined the go-anywhere performance and rugged stance of an SUV with compact dimensions and handling more akin to a hatchback The same pioneering spirit is witnessed in the all-new fifth generation RAV4, which makes its first European appearance at the Paris Motor Show. This is a model which takes the SUV into a new era of performance, capability and safety, advances that are underpinned by the first use of a TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform in an SUV and a powerful new design. With its low centre of gravity and significantly increased body rigidity, the new RAV4’s GA-K platform directly contributes to superior handling, ride comfort, a spacious interior, class-leading load space and the freedom to produce a strong, eye-catching design with lower roof and bonnet lines and higher ground clearance. As well as providing more space and comfort, the cabin displays exceptional quality and finish throughout. The new RAV4 remains unique in its class in offering customers a self-charging hybrid electric powertrain – the choice of an overwhelming majority of customers in Western Europe (85 per cent in 2018). The new 2.5 litre, 219bhp TNGA hybrid powertrain will strengthen customer appeal, delivering step-changes in power, responsiveness and efficiency, with best-in-class fuel economy and emissions levels. At the same time, RAV4’s all-wheel drive systems have been comprehensively improved to achieve a “drive on any road” capability. The new RAV4 Hybrid’s electric AWD system has been re-engineered and enhanced to provide a much stronger performance in challenging conditions and secure handling on slippery surfaces. The new RAV4 is also the first Toyota to benefit from additional Toyota Safety Sense features that extend the use of advanced technologies to help prevent accidents and provide greater driver assistance, including systems that introduce a degree of automated driving. TOYOTA NEW GLOBAL ARCHITECTURE PLATFORM The foundation of the new RAV4’s dynamic qualities is its all-new TNGA platform. This gives the car the core strengths of a low centre gravity, light weight and a strong, rigid and balanced chassis that delivers exceptional handling, stability and driver rewards. For the customer this makes the car more fun to drive, while at the same time enabling design freedom inside and out, enhanced safety performance that gives greater peace of mind and more comfort for everyone on board. The lowest possible centre of gravity is achieved by making every component lighter and locating it lower down in the vehicle – everything from the engine to the seats in the cabin. The platform also allows for a 57 per cent increase in body rigidity, which contributes to a stable, flat ride with superior handling. The TNGA platform underpins the “confident and natural” driving quality Toyota has sought for the new model: “confident” in not reacting adversely to disturbances and communicating a sense of stability, and “natural” in its intuitive, natural response to the driver’s inputs. Beyond the benefits of the chassis itself, further detailed measures make important contributions to its overall quality, with Toyota’s top engineers leading the development of the new RAV4’s dynamic performance, fine-tuning the handling and driveability. For example, the design and location of the fuel tank have been changed to achieve better handling and stability. The tank is now located laterally in front of the rear axle so that its load is spread evenly between the wheels, supporting flat, stable performance. Optimum weight balance is not only achieved front-to-rear (51/49) but also left-to-right. Response from the electric power steering has been improved by moving the assist motor from the column to the rack. The result is more linear increase in steering input torque and less strain on the steering shaft, which communicates a better, more direct feel to the driver as the steering loads up and gives more faithful line tracing through corners. Summer-specification tyres are used in place of the all-weather type, further adding to the precise driving quality and achieving top-class braking distances. The RAV4’s TNGA platform also distinguishes itself in its use of a double wishbone rear suspension system. Thanks to the low centre of gravity and high body rigidity, the suspension does not have to be rendered stiffer to meet dynamic targets. Nonetheless, precise adjustments have been made to the rear suspension to focus on better ride comfort, including a more upright setting for the shock absorbers and optimisation of the locating point for the trailing arms. Handling is thus agile, faithful and neutral, giving the driver confidence with accurate responses to the driver’s use of the steering wheel and throttle pedal and optimised shift patterns. CONCEPT AND DESIGN The TNGA platform was of great benefit to Toyota’s designers in their mission to give the new RAV4 a strong SUV character and styling that sets it apart from other models in its segment. The fact that TNGA introduces so many standardised parts “under the skin” simplifies the development process, giving the designers more time and scope to create an all-new look, inside and out. The exterior lines and detailing in the cabin are influenced by regular, polygonal shapes, communicating strength and coherence. The powerful design combines with the unique new self-charging hybrid electric powertrain to give the new RAV4 the stand-out qualities required to attract customers in a highly competitive marketplace, in particular conquest sales to people new to the model and the Toyota brand. Key elements in generating this impact include raising the ground clearance (+15mm), using large diameter wheels and making the car suitable for multiple types of use. The exterior look is powerful and individual, with a solid form that extends from the front of the vehicle along the sides to the rear, giving the sense of a strong mass and authentic SUV capabilities. At the front the emphasis is on width and strength with extra volume added to the lower bumper section, and there is a similar effect at the rear where the horizontal line created by the tail lights and back window angles sharply downwards at each edge, drawing the eye towards the rear wheels and expressing the “polygon” influence on the design. The cabin is characterised by high sensory quality throughout and precision execution. Soft-touch surfaces abound, including the dashboard and door panels. Consistent patterns, textures, colours and ambient lighting are applied, with symmetrical shapes and use of the polygon motif seen in the Toyota FT-AC concept model. Switchgear is new, too, with cleanly integrated buttons and pleasingly tactile controls, such as the button/dial to adjust the air conditioning. The low-set instrument panel – a further benefit of the TNGA platform – has powerful horizontal lines that flow into the door panels, emphasising the cabin’s generous width and giving the driver a clearer view of the road ahead. A larger, open centre console between the front seats is in keeping with a welcoming, functional SUV interior. Special attention was paid to providing plenty of useful and easily accessible storage for the driver and front passenger. The TNGA platform helps secure impressive cabin space, best-in-class load space and all-round comfort. Reducing the front and rear overhangs by a combined 35mm (-5mm front, -30mm rear) means the new model is shorter overall by 5mm (4,600mm) and retains its agile manoeuvrability, yet the wheelbase has been increased by 30mm (2,690mm), securing a more spacious cabin. To add to the new model’s purposeful, wide stance, overall width has grown by 10mm (1,855mm) and the front and rear treads have been increased. At the same time, overall height has been brought down by 10mm (to 1,650mm). On-board comfort and convenience Securing better all-round visibility was a key consideration in RAV4’s design process. The TNGA platform allows the bonnet to sit 15mm lower, adding two degrees to the driver’s forward field of vision, and the external mirrors have been moved to a lower position on the front doors. The front pillars have been made slimmer, the belt line has been lowered and the rearward view from the driver’s seat has been improved by enlarging the rear side windows and making a new digital rear-view mirror available (further details in the Equipment section). The driver’s comfort and sense of control when at the wheel are important considerations, and the new TNGA chassis allows for a more engaging driving position, without detracting from the commanding view of the road that’s a defining quality of SUVs. The driver’s hip point has been lowered by 15mm, but the range of steering wheel adjustment has been increased by 50 per cent. This, together with a generous seat adjustment range and precise positioning of the pedals and armrest, ensures more customers are able to find their ideal position when driving. Comfort for rear seat passengers has been improved with 40mm added to the left/right couple distance, more spacious rear footwells and two air vents. Increasing the opening angle of the rear doors and reducing the distance from the hip point to the rocker panel makes getting into and out of the vehicle and access to child seats easier. The load space behind the rear seats has been made larger and more user-friendly, notably thanks to a fully flat floor and a length extended by 60mm to secure best-in-class capacity, 79 litres more than in the current RAV4. Flexibility is designed-in so that the space can easily be adapted to gain more cargo room when required: with the rear seats folded down, the new RAV4 can accommodate a 29-inch mountain bike without any wheels having to be removed. There is a height-adjustable, two-level deck board that can be reversed when dirty items need to be carried. The rear seats have a 60:40 split-folding function and there are storage nets on each side of the boot. Clever details include a hand grip on the tailgate that can serve as a hanger and a power-operated tailgate with hands-free function. POWERTRAINS AND PERFORMANCE The new RAV4 will be available with two TNGA powertrains, both more powerful and fuel-efficient than those in the current model. The new 2.5 litre RAV4 Hybrid combines fuel and emissions efficiency and quiet operation with more power and greater responsiveness. The full system maximum output of 219b hp/163 kW compares to 19bhp/45 kW for the current model, signalling how Toyota’s latest self-charging hybrid technology is not lacking in strength; acceleration from rest to 62mph takes just 8.1 seconds. This proposal of “power with no compromise” gives the new RAV4 a unique advantage in its class and, with the benefit of its improved performance, driveability and efficiency, this powertrain option is expected to account for an even greater proportion of sales. Toyota predicts that this will rise from the current 85 per cent to 90 per cent for the new model in Western Europe. A new 2.0-litre petrol engine will also be available, with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. Toyota’s fourth generation self-charging hybrid electric system makes its debut in the RAV4, bringing with it multiple benefits. Key components, including the power control unit (PCU) and the nickel metal-hydride battery are more compact and lighter in weight, and have been engineered to reduce electrical and mechanical losses. The powertrain makes use of Toyota’s new 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine, a four-cylinder unit with direct and indirect injection that targets best-in-class fuel consumption and emissions for the new RAV4. Toyota expects combined cycle fuel economy to be 62.8mpg* (correlated NEDC) with CO2 emissions from as low as 102 g/km* (correlated NEDC). For the driver, the results are better acceleration from stationary, improved efficiency at higher speeds and overall smoother and more linear acceleration. ALL-WHEEL DRIVE Toyota is introducing improvements in the all-wheel drive technology in the new RAV4 to deliver enhanced performance, capabilities and control in all driving conditions, adding to the model’s “go anywhere” spirit and driving pleasure. Its impressive AWD performance on-road and off will further distinguish the new RAV4 among its competitors, with secure cornering performance and grip in all conditions. RAV Hybrid with significantly enhanced electric AWD system The new RAV4 Hybrid is equipped with a significantly enhanced and more capable electric AWD system that comes with no penalties: it returns better fuel economy in urban driving, quieter performance at high speeds and better traction in slippery conditions. It is also more compact and lighter in weight than mechanical AWD systems, so fuel consumption and vehicle packaging are not compromised The system efficiently generates drive torque using power from the hybrid vehicle system and an additional motor generator on the rear axle. This design reduces energy losses, saves weight and optimises AWD operation in different driving conditions. Compared to the current model, the level of torque that can be directed to the rear wheels has been increased by 30 per cent, enabling a front/rear split from 100:0 to up to 20:80, depending on driving conditions. Maximum torque to the rear wheels has increased from 953 to 1,300Nm, matching or even bettering torque achieved by mechanical systems and giving more surefooted performance, for example when pulling away on loose, slippery surfaces. The electric AWD system automatically optimises this torque ratio according to driving conditions, providing improved handling, stability and off-road performance, particularly in faithful line tracing through bends in slippery conditions, giving the driver a strong feeling of all four wheels being in good contact with the road. The mechanical all-wheel drive system on the new RAV4 2.0-litre petrol CVT model is equipped with Toyota’s first dynamic torque vectoring system with Rear Driveline Disconnect. This manages torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels using twin couplings on the rear axle to give stable performance and accurate response to the driver’s steering inputs when cornering, both in dry and slippery conditions. AWD Integrated Management The new RAV4’s AWD performance is further improved with the introduction of AWD Integrated Management (AIM), a unique feature in its class. This automatically adjusts different vehicle systems – steering assist, brake and throttle control, shift pattern and drive torque distribution – according to the drive mode selected. In the new RAV4 Hybrid, the driver can switch from Normal to Eco or Sport mode. When choosing Sport mode, AIM modifies the steering assist, throttle control shift schedule and drive torque distribution to gain better on-road performance. Greater “escape” capability with Trail Mode The RAV4 Hybrid gains a higher level of capability with the introduction of a new automatic limited-slip differential control – Trail Mode – which ensures the best possible grip and control in slippery conditions. It can also provide valuable assistance when tackling challenging off-road conditions. With the current generation RAV4 Hybrid, there is a risk of the vehicle becoming stranded if a driven wheel loses contact with the ground on very uneven terrain. On the new model, by activating the Trail Mode (via a Drive mode selector on the centre console), the free rotating wheel can be braked and drive torque directed to the grounded wheel. Throttle control and the transmission shift pattern are also adapted to help the driver keep the vehicle moving. EQUIPMENT AND ENHANCED TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE SYSTEMS Equipment specifications for the new RAV4 will demonstrate how Toyota continues to apply technologies to deliver useful innovations in safety, technology, comfort and everyday practicality. Features that will be available as standard or as options, according to model grade, will include a power-operated panoramic roof, ventilated seats, wireless charging for smartphones and up to five USB ports around the cabin for the connection of multiple devices. Equipment features The new RAV4 will offer generous equipment specifications across its range in Europe, with all models equipped as standard with the latest iteration of Toyota Safety Sense with an eCall emergency contact function. (Read more about Toyota Safety Sense in the dedicated chapter). Even at entry level, the check-list will include 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, LED headlights, push-button start, a seven-inch display audio and 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display. Features such as 18-inch alloys, smart entry, extensive soft touch cabin trims, larger display screens, leather upholstery, projector LED headlights, rear privacy glass and a power-operated tailgate will also be available. Style grade for RAV4 Hybrid The Style grade will stand out with its bi-tone paint finish, striking a contrast between the bodywork colour (a choice of four) and a black roof section, plus projector LED headlights and black 18-inch alloys. In the cabin sports-style seats, a black headlining and blue trim accents further emphasise the car’s distinctive quality. A wide range of option packs and accessories will be available so owners can equip their RAV4 to perfectly meet their lifestyle preferences. New digital rear-view mirror The new RAV4 helps drivers gain a better view of their surroundings with a new digital rear-view mirror – a Toyota first. It can be used as a conventional, electrochromic auto-dimming mirror, directly reflecting the road and traffic behind the car, or as a digital monitor with a much wider field of vision. At the touch of a switch, it presents real-time images relayed from an adjustable, high-definition camera mounted high up on the RAV4’s back window. This ensures a clear view, for example when large items in the load space or tall rear-seat passengers obscure the driver’s line of sight. The camera also provides a wider field of vision and the driver can use touch controls to adjust the image, including a zoom function. Panoramic View Monitor, panoramic sunroof and JBL audio system Further premium features which will be available on the new RAV4 include a Panoramic View Monitor, which provides the driver with a real-time 360-degree view of the area immediately around the vehicle, including a bird’s eye aspect from above. This is of value both off-road, to better negotiate tricky terrain, and when manoeuvring in confined spaces where hazards can lurk outside the driver’s line of sight. The open and spacious cabin environment can be further enhanced with an opening panoramic sunroof. Where on-board entertainment is concerned, Toyota has worked with premium audio partner JBL to deliver high-quality, immersive experience. The tailor-made new RAV4 JBL audio system will deliver concert sound quality through its nine-speaker architecture. It features JBL’s signature Horn Tweeters, a new, powerful subwoofer and an amplifier with Clari-FiTM digital music restoration technology. RAV4 heritage and market success The Toyota RAV4 started out as a pioneer, niche model but has gone from strength to strength to become one of the world’s best-selling vehicles. It can be credited with creating a whole new market segment, one in which today every major manufacturer is represented. The model now sits at the heart of Toyota’s global business. Cumulative global sales across four generations since 1994 have reached more than 8.1 million, while in 2017 the current RAV4 was the world’s best-selling SUV and fourth best-selling model overall, with 810,953 sales. In Europe, high customer demand for SUVs has seen the market increase four-fold in the past four years (accounting for 22.7 per cent of the new car market) and annual sales are expected to reach more than five million by 2023. Sales volumes in the D-SUV segment remain stable, at around 1.5 million a year. 1 Based on Regulation EC 2017/1153 as amended EC2017/1231 – pending final homologation. NEW TOYOTA RAV4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS POWERTRAIN HYBRID AWD HYBRID FWD Toyota Hybrid System Full system output (bhp/kW) 219/163 215/160 ENGINE Fuel type Petrol Petrol Max. power (bhp/kW @ rpm) 175/130 @ 6,000 175/130 @ 6,000 Max. torque (Nm @ rpm) 221 @ 4,400 221 @ 4,400 PERFORMANCE Acceleration 0-62mph (sec) 8.1 8.4 Max. speed (mph) 112 112 FUEL CONSUMPTION1 Combined cycle (NEDC correlated, mpg) 61.4 62.8 EMISSIONS1 Combined cycle (NEDC correlated, g/km) 105 102 WEIGHT Kerb weight (min-max, kg) 1,645-1,730 1,590-1,680 DIMENSIONS Overall length (mm) 4,600 4,600 Overall width (mm) 1,855 1,855 Overall height (mm) 1,685 1,685 Wheelbase (mm) 2,690 2,690 Ground clearance (mm) 190 190 Boot capacity (litres, VDA) 580 580 1 Based on Regulation EC 2017/1153 as amended EC 2017/1231 – pending final homologation. NB: UK market specifications and details will be confirmed later and may vary from the information in this press kit
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