Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV is entirely redesigned for 2019, making it the start of the model’s fifth generation. If you’ve been keeping an eye on the RAV4 over the past few years, but never tried one out, now is a better time to drive one than ever before. Take a look at some of the coolest ways Toyota has improved this crossover, including two exciting additional trim levels, a new overall look, and a handy optional safety feature.
1. RAV4 Adventure
The big change from 2018 to 2019 is the addition of two new trim levels. First is the Adventure, a trim that adds fog lights, unique high-rise roof rails, and more rugged, off-road-inspired exterior styling. As you might guess, the Adventure is meant to customize the normally metropolitan RAV4 for off-road quests. To that end, the flagship feature is Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system, a set of switchable drive modes that optimize the RAV4’s traction control, brake pressure, and rocky, snowy, sandy, or muddy terrains.
2. Hybrid XSE
The other new trim level is the RAV4 XSE Hybrid. This model has an exclusive interior and exterior styling, a sport suspension, and a Dynamic Torque Vectoring all-wheel-drive setup with Rear Driveline Disconnect. The latter allows the RAV4 Hybrid to redistribute power to either or both rear wheels, as needed, to improve handling and maximize fuel economy. In most cases, the model operates in regular all-wheel drive, but it is capable of driving with less or no power to the back wheels, if it can save on energy, without the driver noticing any change in performance.
3. Adjusted Body Proportions
On top of a full interior redesign, the RAV4 has been reshaped slightly to give it a more assertive and bold appearance. The RAV4 is now slightly wider than the 2018 model, as well as shorter, yet with a longer wheelbase. This means greater stability and a solid, traditional SUV-like driving feel. Front and back overhangs are shorter as well, giving the RAV4 more of a stout appearance. Past models played it safe with a more conservative look, but the new RAV4 shares body styling elements with Toyota’s pickups, like the Tacoma and Tundra.
4. Rearview Mirror Camera
Plenty of modern vehicles now include a standard rearview backup camera. This involves a camera mounted to the back of a vehicle that delivers a feed to the infotainment touch screen, helping you back in and out of tight spaces. However, what if this camera delivered the feed to your rearview mirror, making the act of tracking the camera even more natural?
The 2019 RAV4 Limited model does just that. Its camera displays its feed in your rearview mirror, which offers a larger field of vision compared to regular rearview mirrors. What’s more, the camera is outside the vehicle, so head restraints, rowdy kids, and other obstacles will never block your vision. If you prefer to look through an ordinary mirror at other times, the camera function can be turned on and off at will.
Although the 2019 RAV4 features many welcome changes, it is still the same nimble and reliable SUV. Anticipated to be released this winter, be prepared to take the newest model out for a test drive. In the meantime, feel free to contact us at Atlantic Toyota with any questions you have.
Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original
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