Toyota Launches Fourth-Generation of Original Crossover SUV - The 2013 RAV4
TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 18, 2012 - -
Toyota’s fourth-generation RAV4 arrives in January, a reinvention of
the world’s original crossover sport utility vehicle. The new RAV4
offers balanced performance and capability, including great fuel
efficiency, class-leading cargo capacity, striking design, and a compelling
array of standard features. RAV4 is available in three trim levels: LE, XLE
and Limited.
“RAV4 was the original crossover SUV, a design and engineering
concept now widely adopted throughout the industry,” said Bill
Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division.
“But RAV4 is the original, the first. For 2013, RAV4 is carefully
tailored to the needs of the compact SUV market it created, with a
fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, a new six-speed automatic
transmission, two-row seating for five and exceptional in-cabin
technologies.”
New RAV4: Dynamic Exterior, Sleek Roofline, Aggressive Character
Lines
The 2013 RAV4 remains true to the original RAV4 concept, scaled to suit the
needs of contemporary buyers.
The new RAV4's design achieves strong proportions while conveying the agile
and fun character. The dynamic exterior features a progressive silhouette,
with a sleek-sloping roofline and an aggressive character line. The new
RAV4's interior has a premium look with soft-touch accents and
driver-centric controls.
RAV4 pursues the design goals defined by Toyota President Akio Toyoda, with
aggressively sculpted front and rear fenders, a low hood, the arc of the
roofline and boldly proportioned taillights that define RAV4's athletic
presence.
In a significant break with its heritage, RAV4 will switch from its
side-hinged rear door to a convenient roof-hinged liftgate with a
space-saver spare tire stored under the cargo floor. Standard on the
Limited grade will be a one-touch power rear liftgate with
driver-selectable memory height settings.
As on other recently introduced Toyotas, RAV4 engineers paid special
attention to aerodynamics, the most obvious detail being small vortex
generators molded into the taillight cases and near the base of the
A-pillars. Less obvious are the aerodynamic undertrays beneath the
passenger cabin that help smooth and control airflow.
Halogen headlights with projector low beams give RAV4 a modern look, and
provide outstanding illumination in an energy-efficient package. Brightness
reduced, RAV4 high beams serve as Daytime Running Lights (DRL)that can be
turned off. RAV4 XLE and Limited feature standard fog lamps that complement
RAV4’s front architecture.
RAV4’s rear roof spoiler not only visually extends the arc of the
roofline, enhancing RAV4’s aerodynamics, but incorporates a brilliant
LED center brake light.
Following body engineering principles debuted in the 2012 Camry and 2013
Avalon, RAV4’s body structure includes high-strength steel to help
achieve several significant goals, including a robust and stiff platform
that enhances steering and handling precision, and a body structure that is
both strong and light. RAV4 engineers used several grades of high-strength
steel to form key structural components in the roof, rocker sills, floor,
engine compartment and door frames. A strut tower bar links the top of the
suspension strut towers to the main bulkhead at the rear of the engine,
helping to increase torsional rigidity.
RAV4 offers nine exterior color palette shades that include: Blizzard
Pearl, Super White, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black,
Barcelona Red Metallic, Pyrite Mica, Spruce Mica, and Shoreline Blue
Pearl.
Spacious Interior Design, Premium Materials, Class-leading Cargo
Volume
RAV4’s “human factors” engineers and designers
collaborated to create a versatile seating arrangement, class-leading cargo
space, and a quiet interior with high levels of standard equipment.
The new RAV4’s dash panel is driver-centric and asymmetrical, with
primary and secondary controls all within easy reach. On the passenger
side, the scalloped dash panel creates a sense of airy spaciousness.
RAV4's dash panel and gauges all feature a new Clear Blue illumination,
which provides crisp visibility in most ambient light conditions, and a
unified, coherent appearance at night.
RAV4 will come standard with a manual tilt/telescope steering column, with
the LE and XLE featuring a urethane steering wheel. The Limited grade will
have a leather-wrapped steering wheel. All RAV4 steering wheels will have
controls for audio, Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio, and the
Multi-Information Display (MID).
All RAV4's will have driver and front passenger seats with high seatbacks
and a slim back, enhancing rear-passenger knee room. The RAV4 LE and XLE
driver's seat is six-way adjustable, including seat height.
The RAV4 XLE driver and front passenger will ride in premium bucket seats
with sport bolstering, providing ample support of the lower hips, lower
torso and shoulders during cornering. The XLE will have premium fabric
with French stitching on the seats and portions of the dash panels.
The Limited comes equipped with driver and front-passenger seat bottom and
seat back heaters in two temperature settings. Limited has the same
premium bucket seats found in the XLE but will also come equipped with an
eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory and lumbar support.
All RAV4 Limited seats are trimmed in high-quality, breathable SofTex with
French stitching. SofTex also covers the center armrest, and portions of
the door and dash panels.
All RAV4's will feature 60/40 split/fold second-row seats that recline
several degrees to enhance passenger comfort and retractable head
restraints for improved driver rear visibility.
In contrast to 2013 RAV4's compact exterior dimensions, the cargo area is
deeper, larger and easier to access than in the previous generation, with
just over 38.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity behind the rear seats. With rear
seats folded, RAV4 has class-leading maximum cargo capacity of 73.4 cu.
ft.
Privacy glass, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), cruise control, power side
mirrors, power door locks and power windows are standard on all RAV4s.
RAV4 XLE and Limited feature dual-zone automatic climate control,
integrated fog lights, power moonroof with sliding sunshade, and heated
outside mirrors with turn signal indicators.
Standard Back-Up Camera, Entune®, Display Audio with
a 6.1-in. Touchscreen
Standard on all RAV4 models is Display Audio with a 6.1-in. touchscreen,
AM/FM/CD, Bluetooth® connectivity, USB and AUX mini-jack, and
six speakers. For a uniform esthetic, the Display Audio, as well as primary
and secondary gauges, features Clear Blue Illumination.
Display Audio allows the driver and front passenger to operate the audio
system, display HVAC settings, engage available navigation and access the
available Entune™ multi-media system. Available on XLE and Limited,
Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™ includes advanced voice
recognition.
The Multi-Information Display (MID) is controlled through buttons on the
right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. The MID provides an array of
information including: distance to empty; average fuel economy; instant
fuel economy; selected gear transmission; warnings, including low fuel,
battery, TPMS, and more.
To further enhance the ownership experience, RAV4 offers SiriusXMÔ Radio,
which includes a complementary 90-day trial subscription.
Available on RAV4 Limited, JBL Premium Audio features eleven GreenEdge
speakers, including a subwoofer, and an eight-channel, 576-Watt max power
amplifier. The system includes 3.1-inch “Unity” speakers
located on the top of the instrument panel, combining tweeter with a
midrange in one housing (a total of four speakers); a 6.7-inch woofer
located in each front door panel; 6.7-inch coaxial speakers in each rear
door (two speakers per housing for a total of four speakers); and a
7.9-inch subwoofer.
An eight-channel external amp powers the JBL Premium Audio system. Six
channels are used to drive the six unique speaker locations (one channel
for each speaker location). The remaining two channels are bridged and
power the 7.9-in. subwoofer. JBL Premium Audio includes Bluetooth
capability and steering wheel-accessible audio controls.
JBL Premium Audio also includes Toyota’s Entune™ 2.0 as well as
a complimentary three-month subscription to available SiriusXMÔradio.
Available on RAV4 XLE and Limited, Toyota’s revolutionary
Entune™ 2.0 onboard multi-media system offers a collection of popular
mobile applications and data services. Entune™ 2.0 includes three
years of complimentary access to apps and services delivered via most
smartphones and some feature phones. (After three years, an access charge
will apply, except for Pandora.) Entune 2.0's suite of applications
includes: Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable.comâ, and Pandoraâ. Customers can download
any available EntuneÔ updates to gain access to new apps and services as
well as keep the original suite of service current.
New Six-Speed AT, Dynamic Torque Control AWD, Sport and ECO
Modes
For 2013, RAV4 will provide a number of powertrain technologies that help
deliver an engaging and satisfying driving experience. RAV4 is available
with Toyota’s 2.5-liter (2494cc) naturally aspirated four-cylinder,
which produces 176 SAE net horsepower at 6000 rpm and 172 lbs-ft. of torque
at 4,100 rpm. The optional V6 of the previous-generation RAV4 has been
discontinued.
Replacing the previous-generation RAV4’s four-speed automatic is a
six-speed transmission. First and second gear ratios are optimized for
around-town performance. To enhance highway fuel mileage, fifth and sixth
gears are overdrives.
Flex lock-up control can lock the transmission’s torque converter at
speeds as low as approximately 12 mph, a marked difference from the
previous generation’s approximately 25 mph engagement speed.
RAV4’s flex lock-up control torque converter helps increase
efficiency while also smoothing powertrain performance.
The all-new RAV4’s fuel efficiency is improved from the previous
generation. RAV4 has a moderate compression ratio of 10.4:1 and runs on 87
octane regular gasoline, which can help limit the cost of ownership. A new
Eco mode also promotes more efficient driving for maximum mpg. RAV4
front-wheel drive models have received EPA-estimated fuel efficiency
ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while
all-wheel-drivemodels are EPA-estimated at 22/29 mpg.
A sophisticated, high-speed interactive management system coordinates
control of the RAV4’s new Dynamic Torque Control AWD, Vehicle
Stability Control (VSC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems to
enhance the compact SUV’s performance, handling and safety.
The new Dynamic Torque Control AWD system continuously monitors and
controls the torque transfer between the front and rear wheels via an
electromagnetically controlled coupling positioned in front of the rear
differential.
Front to rear torque distribution can vary from 100:0 to 50:50, with
front-wheel drive (100:0) automatically engaged under normal driving
conditions to improve fuel consumption.
The Dynamic Torque Control AWD system uses information sent from various
sensors (speed, steering angle and speed, throttle angle and yaw rate) to
automatically govern the transmission of torque to the rear wheels, as
required.
In Auto mode -when neither Sport mode nor Lock mode are activated- torque
transfer to the rear wheels will take place not only when the slip is
detected (as in the current-generation RAV4), but also when the system
detects steering input and cornering forces while on-road. As a result, the
overall agility and driving performance of the new RAV4 is enhanced during
both on- and off-road driving.
When the all new Sport mode (standard on AWD models) is selected, torque
transfer to the rear wheels will start from the moment the steering wheel
is turned. The new Dynamic Torque Control AWD System, with the feedback
from driver steering input, will adjust automatically a 90:10 front/rear
torque distribution to reduce the load on the front tires.
If later, an actual understeer develops, torque transfer to the rear wheels
are automatically increased by up to 50 percent, further reducing front
tire loading to provide improved lateral grip.
As well as activating the ‘Dynamic’ behavior of the
system’s front to rear torque transfer, the new Sport mode also
modifies the RAV4’s power steering, throttle and transmissions;
decreasing power steering assistance, sharpening throttle response and
offering higher revs, automatic and CVT gearbox management, for a more
dynamic, sporting driving experience.
For off-road driving, the system incorporates an AWD Lock button. This
allows drivers to lock torque distribution in a fixed, 50/50 ratio at
speeds up to about 25 mph. Above this speed, the system automatically
reverts to Auto mode.
In both front- and all-wheel drive RAV4s, Sport Mode sharpens shift timing,
throttle response, and steering response. When down shifting the RAV4
six-speed automatic transmission in "S" Mode, engine revs rise with a
clearly audible "blip," adding to the driving experience.
The RAV4s new Dynamic Torque Control AWD system automatically shifts from
front-wheel drive (FWD) to AWD when accelerating or when sensors detect
wheel slippage.
Front-drive RAV4’s feature an Automatic Limited Slip Differential
(Auto LSD), which can be engaged by the driver at low speeds. Through
pulsed application of the individual front brakes, Auto LSD helps direct
power across the front axle, simulating the function of a limited-slip
differential. Auto LSD is essentially a second layer of computer logic in
the Traction Control system that can be engaged in certain low-speed
situations, up to approximately 25 mph. Unlike Traction Control, Auto LSD
allows a measure of controlled drive-wheel spin to help “dig”
out of difficult conditions, like a sandy patch on an unpaved road leading
to a campsite, or a driveway covered with snow.
RAV4 models with AWD have a single-speed transfer case that can smoothly
deliver power to the rear wheels while enhancing fuel efficiency and
reducing friction in the driveline. The aluminum case is a light, compact
design, limiting weight at the front of the vehicle. Low-viscosity
lubricant helps reduce friction and contributes to enhanced energy
efficiency.
All-wheel-drive RAV4’s have a rear differential with an integrated
electromagnetic control coupling. The coupling is engaged electronically
when information sent to it by various sensors (vehicle speed, throttle
input, and steering wheel angle) determines that additional torque should
be delivered to the rear wheels. RAV4’s rear differential and
electromagnetic coupling control provide smooth and efficient torque
transfer to the rear wheels. Compared with the previous-generation RAV4,
the rear axle carrier, retainer and gears are lighter in weight.
RAV4 has a MacPherson strut front suspension that delivers smooth
suspension movements. A double-wishbone rear suspension is engineered and
calibrated to compliment the roll and handling traits of the front
suspension. Major components of the rear suspsension are upper and lower
arms, toe control arms, stabilizer bar, and a coil spring.
Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering with vehicle-speed-sensitive
Electric Power Steering (EPS) is standard. The EPS has been tuned for a
precision feel and quick response. In Sport Mode, steering has a firmer
feel and sharper response to steering input.
The RAV4 LE will roll on standard 17-inch steel wheels wrapped with
P225/65R17 radials. RAV4 XLE comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels with
P225/65R17 all-season radials. RAV4 Limited is fitted with machine-finished
18-in. alloy wheels with P235/55R18 all-season radials. Four-wheel disc
brakes are standard on all grades.
Class-Leading Eight Standard Airbags; Blind Spot Monitor; STAR
Safety
RAV4 combines the “active safety” of agile handling and
four-wheel disc brakes with a range of safety technologies.
All 2013 RAV4s have a class-leading eight standard airbags: dual stage
advanced driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted airbags,
first and second row side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag and front
passenger seat cushion airbag.
Like every Toyota, RAV4 has the Star Safety System as standard equipment
and includes: Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution
(EBD), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
The body structure of the RAV4 is designed to help absorb collision-impact
forces and help minimize impact deformation to the passenger cabin.
High-strength steel is used in the roof, rocker sills, floor, engine
compartment and door frames to help manage overall body deformation in the
event of certain side collisions.
An electronic tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is standard
equipment.
Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to help support
the driver’s and front passenger’s head during certain types of
rear-end collisions. Specifically, the rigidity of the seatback frame, the
shape of the seat, and the positioning of the seatback relative to the
headrest can increase the likelihood that the seatback and headrest will
help restrain the head and torso simultaneously during an impact, thus
helping to reduce the incidence and severity of a whiplash injury through
excessive head movement.
The Limited grade has an available Blind Spot Monitor system (BSM) that
operates when RAV4 is traveling at approximately 10 mph or above. It can be
turned off with a dashboard switch. When the system detects a vehicle in
the adjacent lane, it alerts the driver using indicators on the side
mirrors. If the turn signal is on when there is a vehicle in the blind spot
of the driver’s intended lane, the indicator on the corresponding
mirror will also flash.
The available Blind Spot Monitor incorporates Rear Cross Traffic Alert
(RCTA), which uses the Blind Spot Monitor radar sensors at the lower rear
bodywork of the vehicle. When backing up, RCTA senses vehicles approaching
from either direction and provides an audible warning combined with
flashing indicators in the outside mirrors.
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are standard on all RAV4s. The DRL system
activates the high-beams at a reduced intensity. DRL does not activate the
taillights and can be shut off with the headlight switch.
Toyota Care Complimentary Maintenance; 24-Hour Roadside
Assistance
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to
all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional
60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against
corrosion with no mileage limitation.
The RAV4 will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan
covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside
assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.