Toyota made some fresh adjustments to their in-demand 2016 RAV4. We are not only talking about the exterior and interior aspects of the crossover, but also about the additional trims that cater to the richly dense tastes of the modern consumers—the RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 SE. The former suits the taste of the clients who prioritize fuel economy; while the other quenches the thirst for sport of the adventurous families.
RAV4 Hybrid
The RAV4 hybrid model is not all about fuel economy. It also holds the place of being the only hybrid under the compact crossover and SUV segment, replacing Ford’s Escape Hybrid. It achieves a combined EPA rating of 33 MPG (see city and highway ratings below) showing 30% improvement compared to its AWD siblings which are able to achieve mere 25 MPG.
As for the powertrain, the hybrid utilizes the same as found in the Lexus NX 300h that is from the Toyota’s luxury brand. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and the two-motor Hybrid Synergy Drive system can actually summon 194 of combined horsepower. RAV4 Hybrid also comes with AWD drivetrain though it’s not of mechanical flavor but uses a 50-kW third electric motor on the rear axle.
RAV4 SE
Deemed to be the sportiest trim in the lineup of RAV4 but still uses the same standard powertrain as the previous model. However, it now has paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel and sport-tuned suspension. Toyota also endowed it with 18-inch alloy wheels and a special front bumper and grille design. The interior bespeaks of contrast-stitching seats, red lighting, black headliner and needles on the instruments. Customers also have the freedom to choose to upgrade the model by incorporating the very much in-fashion LED headlamps and taillamps, black-and-tan interior plus power driver’s seat.
Other Features
Optional features include collision warning, automatic pre-collision braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian pre-collision system, automatic high beams, and the latest Bird’s Eye View Monitor. Meanwhile, options for the Limited version include blind spot monitors and cross-traffic alerts; whereas the base model, rear-vision camera and eight airbags are mandatory.
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- Category : Compact Crossovers and SUVs
- Engine
- Base : 2.5L 4-cylinder
- Hybrid : 154-hp 2.5L four-cylinder + two-motor Hybrid Synergy Drive system
- Transmission
- Base : 6-speed automatic
- Hybrid :
- SE : 6-speed automatic with sport-shift mode
- Drivetrain : AWD
- Power
- Base : 176hp
- Hybrid : 194hp
- 0-60 mph
- Base : 9.1 seconds
- Hybrid : 8.1 seconds
- SE : less than 9 seconds
- Mileage :
- Hybrid : (city) 31 MPG; (highway) 34 MPG
- SE : (city) 22 MPG; (highway) 29 MPG
- Price : (Hybrid XLE) starts at $29,270; (Hybrid Limited) starts at $34,510;
(base) $24,580 – $30,750
