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By
EWAN KENNEDY
25 December 2006
Toyota RAV4 is now larger in every dimension. Though there are
styling carryovers from previous generations of RAV4s, the latest model,
introduced to Australia in February 2006, has shifted more in the
direction of family 4WD, no longer being aimed at the young-and-trendy
market.
The extra interior size not only means that four
adults can get comfortable in the cabin, but that five can be
transported without being overly uncomfortable. The typical family
load of two adults and three kids will travel in plenty of
comfort.
As well as the large cabin, there's also a good
sized boot that’s reasonably regular in its shape and easy to
load. A hidden 90-litre area under the floor of the luggage area
not only increases space but also provides security as well.
This underfloor space is freed up because the RAV4
carries a full-size spare tyre mounted on the rear door. This also
increases its suitability to medium-duty off-road use, not an area
where you want to be forced into using a space-saving small tyre.
Power comes from an uprated version of the
2.4-litre four-cylinder engine introduced in the RAV4 a couple of
years ago. It now puts out 125kW, against the 120kW of the
superseded model. It powers through either a four-speed automatic
transmission or a five-speed manual.
Though weight is up by a significant 140kg,
depending on model, on the previous RAV4, the new one feels lively
enough on the road and is almost pleasant to drive as a passenger
car. However, some of this performance has been gained by reducing
the overall gearing, so the engine is running at plenty of revs a
lot of the time. This doesn’t sound unpleasant and the new RAV4
is still more refined than previous models.
A sign of the times is that Toyota no longer
provides a fulltime 4WD system in the RAV4, instead it has
introduced an electronic part-time setup. The company says this
sort of system has now matured to the stage where it’s every bit
as good as a fulltime one. In fact, there's even speculation that
a similar system may be used in the upcoming new LandCruiser 200
series, but that’s another story so let’s get back to the
Cruiser’s smaller brother.
A further benefit of using a part-time AWD system
is the potential reduction in fuel consumption. This can be lost
if the RAV4 is driven hard to gain performance despite its
increased mass. But few drive a vehicle like this in a sporting
manner so it’s not really a criticism.
On dirt roads the new 4WD system works well and
there was no sensation of wheel slippage before the rear wheels
kicked in to assist the fronts when conditions demanded.
We did some moderate off-road driving, much of it
in really hot conditions and the system gives good traction,
probably more than will ever be demanded by everyday owners.
RAV4 will be sold in three models; the RAV4 CV is
priced at $31,990 and is well equipped, with air conditioning,
power windows and door mirrors, a single-disc CD player, cruise
control, ABS and dual airbags. Next comes the $ 37,490 RAV4
Cruiser, which adds alloy wheels, dual air conditioning, front
foglights and four more airbags.
Topping the RAV4 range is the RAV4 Cruiser L with
a recommended price of $ 41,990. The L’s big selling features
are leather trim and a moonroof, it also comes with a
power-adjustable driver’s seat and heating for the two front
seats.
Automatic transmission is offered on all models at
$ 2000. On-road costs have to be built into the cost equation, ask
your Toyota dealer for details in your specific location.
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Marque Publishing Company
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