2018 Toyota RAV4: More hybrid models lead revisions updated SUV

Toyota’s petrol-electric hybrid power is proving the number one choice for customers buying a new RAV4, accounting for two-thirds of UK sales of the compact SUV. From October there will be even more versions to choose from, as hybrid becomes available across the entire range of new 2018 Toyota RAV4 models.

Extending the hybrid choice is part of a programme of strategic changes to the RAV4 line-up that will make it an even more attractive prospect, perfectly in tune with customer preferences. Key changes include a new grade structure, revised equipment specifications, option packs and additional colour choices.

2018 Toyota RAV4: new grade structure

Toyota’s ground-breaking introduction of the RAV4 Hybrid last year caught the public’s imagination, with customers proving eager to experience the benefits of petrol-electric hybrid power in a compact SUV. Hybrids are currently accounting for two-thirds (65.3%) of all RAV4 sales.

For 2018, hybrid power is available across all new model grades: Icon and Icon Tech versions have front-wheel drive, while Design and Excel versions also offer the choice of Toyota’s compact, lightweight and energy-saving E-Four electric all-wheel drive system.

The line-up continues to feature 2.0 D-4D diesel front-wheel drive models and 2.0-litre Valvematic petrol power with CVT automatic gearbox and mechanical all-wheel drive.

2018 Toyota RAV4: equipment features

The 2018 RAV4 offers impressive equipment features, with slight revisions to match the new grade structure.

The new entry-level Icon grade (see above image) is equipped with the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with a seven-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio, Bluetooth, DAB reception and reversing camera. It also comes with Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance features, Smart Entry and push-button start, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a power tailgate with a height memory setting – ideal when the backdoor is regularly opened in a confined area, such as a domestic garage or multi-storey car park.

Icon Tech models additionally feature navigation and connectivity functions within the Toyota Touch 2 package.

The new RAV4 Design models ride on 18-inch machined-face black alloys and are fitted with LED headlights with automatic levelling. Black leather and Alcantara upholstery are used for the seats, door trims and armrests and the front seats are power-slide-adjustable with integrated heating and lumbar support.

At the top of the range, Excel grade (below) adds high-gloss black 18-inch 10-spoke alloys and matching black door mirror casings and underruns. Black, beige or grey leather upholstery can be specified and the driver’s seat gains a memory function. The multimedia system has additional functions, such as voice recognition, text-to-speech and 3D maps. Safety provisions are enhanced with the addition of a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

2018 Toyota RAV4: option packs and colours

The RAV4 Design can be specified with a Visibility Pack, equipping the vehicle with a Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Panoramic View Monitor. For Excel models, a new Assist Pack provides a hands-free, ‘kick-activated’ tailgate and panoramic view monitor.

The Panoramic View Monitor is a new feature for RAV4, helping make parking and manoeuvring easier. It combines images from four external cameras to create a near-360-degree, 3D view of the car’s surroundings, presented on the central multimedia screen. The driver can choose from two viewing modes: moving view and see-through view, to check for any obstacles or hazards that are out of their sightline.

The 2018 RAV4 is available in a new colour, Tokyo Red (see lead image). A full body colour treatment is available for Design grade models, in Tokyo Red and Silver Blade, taking in the bumpers and wheel arches. The underruns have a contrasting silver finish.

Model range and prices

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 range is on sale from 1 October. The models available and on-the-road prices are shown below. All new RAV4 models come with the peace-of-mind protection of a five-year/100,000-mile Toyota warranty.

All information is correct at the time of publishing.