Toyota’s first plug-in hybrid has just gone on sale in Australia, 25 years after the launch of its first hybrid the Prius — and just two years after the launch of its first EV bZ4X.
We’re taking about the all-new, sixth generation RAV4 which is now in showrooms, or it would be if Toyota was not flat out trying to fill some 10,000 pre-orders for the car.
With an expanded six different grades from which to choose, three are available as plug-in hybrids, or PHEVs as they are known, including the top of the line GR Sport.
Toyota’s timing couldn’t be better, as Aussies seem to have developed a taste for PHEVs, particularly those of the cheaper Chinese variety.
The new RAV starts from $45,990, but it will cost you at least $58,840 to get into a PHEV — the GR Sport PHEV $66,340 — all prices before on-road costs.
Underpinning the new plug-in hybrid system is a 2.5-litre petrol engine combined with a new 22.7 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery that will provide a targeted electric only driving range of up to 100km (WLTP).
Electric driving range is maximised with the help of geo-fencing technology, combining real-time road and traffic data along with insights from the driver’s typical routes and driving style, to automatically switch between hybrid and electric modes.
The new battery supports DC fast charging with a 50kW onboard charger, which can replenish the battery from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes, while a new 11kW AC charger provides speedy recharging in as little as three hours.
Improved thermal management allows for consistently reliable performance, keeping the battery temperature stable to maintain optimum efficiency when charging and driving.
An improved front electric motor now develops a powerful 150kW, which on AWD grades provides a potent combined system output of 227kW, helping the RAV4 reach 100km/h from standstill in just 5.8 seconds.
A more affordable 2WD PHEV system will also be offered, achieving a total system output of 201kW.
Along with smooth, frugal and responsive power delivery, the PHEV system offers enhanced driving dynamics thanks to its lower centre of gravity and improved body rigidity from the battery’s placement under the vehicle floor.
An optimised system layout sees the relocation of more components into the engine bay to liberate more space in the cabin.
Along with PHEV options, the RAV4 will be available with Toyota’s popular and efficient series-parallel hybrid system in AWD and 2WD configurations, both of which produce 143kW combined with excellent fuel economy.
The hybrid systems use Toyota latest technology with enhanced efficiency for the transaxle, PCU, battery and electric motors.
The flagship of the sixth-generation RAV4 range is the new GR Sport variant available exclusively in PHEV AWD guise.
The GR stands out with lightweight 20-inch twin-spoke black alloy wheels, aerodynamically enhanced front and rear spoilers and a distinctive grille design with GR mesh pattern which creates a deeper 3D effect.
More than just visual upgrades, the GR Sport also features a 20mm-wider wheel track and upgraded high-performance damper design, stiffer rear suspension brace and retuned suspension and power steering calibration to deliver increased driving thrills.
Inside, the GR Sport adopts discreet GR logos and red accents, sports seats, combination synthetic leather and suede upholstery, console knee pads and aluminium pedals.
|
HEV |
|
|
GX 2WD* |
$45,990 |
|
GX AWD* |
$49,340 |
|
GXL 2WD |
$48,990 |
|
GXL AWD |
$52,340 |
|
Edge AWD |
$55,340 |
|
XSE AWD# |
$58,340 |
|
Cruiser 2WD |
$56,990  |
|
Cruiser AWD |
$60,340 |
|
PHEV |
|
|
XSE 2WD# |
$58,840 |
|
XSE AWD# |
$63,340 |
|
GR Sport AWD |
$66,340 |
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