The first RAV4 was released on the year 1996; 19 years later, we are now greeted with the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It has been a strong seller throughout the years and can easily be seen to be a prime choice for consumers all over. Even though there were some years wherein the RAV4 lost its crown to the likes of the Honda CR-V and the Ford Escape, it didn’t really strayed away from the competition. It was more likely to be laying in wait for its supreme comeback. In this 2016 model, are we able to see a game changer for this new RAV4?
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a Sensible All-Wheel-Drive Hybrid
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a mid-cycle upgrade to the 2013 model. Don’t think about this as a minor update like the newer versions for the apps on your smartphone. The updates found on the new RAV4 are already close to a major overhaul.
There are several interior and exterior changes, as well as the addition of a new SE model. All of the variants of the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid will sport a new front end with a higher hoodline. There are also pseudo skid plates and a more unified grille for all models. This is to give the general impression that the vehicle is higher, wider, and have a more truck-like design. Apparently, this look is still appealing even to compact-crossover buyers. For its rear, the bumper is seen to be more distinct than its predecessor, and it has less black cladding.
Moving into its interiors, there is also a slew of changes. To start, there is a new instrument cluster that puts the 4.2-inch infotainment display between the tachometer and the speedometer. There are also softer surfaces found on the dashboard and the door panels. Furthermore, the car is available in two new interior colors, them being Cinnamon and Nutmeg.
Under the hood, all 2016 RAV4 models will come with an all-wheel-drive system. Hence, there’s a 150-horsepower, 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine found on its front, which is coupled with a 141-horsepower, permanent-magnet electric motor which uses the traditional Toyota CVT automatic.
The combination of these powers will give life to the front wheels, as the rear wheels will be powered by a 67-horsepower electric motor that has no mechanical connection whatsoever to the front wheels. If you’re curious about this system, this is called the AWD-i. This allows a great deal of flexibility for the vehicle’s front-to-rear power split.
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provides a practical spot in the lives of many consumers. It is an everyday machine marked at a reasonable price as it also brings in one of the highest-mileage all-wheel-drive vehicles on the market.