The 2019 Toyota RAV4 looks nothing like its predecessors, and that is purely by design. The all-new, fifth-generation model brings back a more dedicated SUV appearance, a reflection of both its enhanced capability and of customer desires. People buy SUVs for emotional reasons, not just practical reasons. Toyota created the compact crossover SUV segment with the original RAV4 more than two decades ago. An all-new type of vehicle, RAV4 combined SUV capabilities with passenger car ride, handling and fuel economy traits. It was a winning formula, leading to explosive market growth. In recent years, automakers smoothed out compact SUV design, adopting more passenger car-like traits. Toyota, the segment leader with nearly 408,000 RAV4 sales in the U.S. in 2017, saw a need to break the mold it had cast. Considering that RAV4 is the brand’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S., this was no small feat. “At the very beginning of the design process, we reviewed RAV4’s distinct product value and considered how best to evolve the original concept of ‘an off-road vehicle built for urban environments that’s a pleasure to drive and look at,’ says RAV4 Chief Engineer Yoshikazu Saeki. “We came to define ‘Adventure & Refinement’ as the design concept for the fifth generation.” The technology show starts when you step into the RAV4. On Adventure, Limited and XSE grades, the 7-inch TFT speedometer can be switched between analog and digital displays, letting the driver set the mood. The Multi-Information Display (MID) is upgraded to 7.0-inches, versus 4.2-inches in lower grades. Through new multimedia technology, RAV4 connects with its driver’s lifestyle as never before. Every 2019 RAV4 model is equipped with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant capability and Entune 3.0 Audio, a comprehensive system that includes 6 speakers, 7.0-in. touchscreen, AM/FM, Scout GPS Link Compatible with up to 3-year trial, Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay Compatible, aux. port, USB media port (plus four additional USB charging ports on XLE and above), hands-free phone capability, advanced voice recognition and music streaming via Bluetooth. Toyota Connected Services include Safety Connect with 3-year trial and Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon with up to 2GB within a 6-month trial. The XLE grade can be upgraded with Entune 3.0 Audio Plus, which adds an 8-inch touchscreen and SiriusXM Radio, plus Toyota Connected Services/Service Connect with a complementary 3-year trial. All-wheel drive (AWD) may have become a ubiquitous term in the automotive industry, especially among SUVs, but not all AWD systems are the same. Toyota took a smarter approach to a technology that many might not even think about. The result is additional effective traction for inclement and slippery weather and trails, while reducing AWD’s typical drag on fuel economy. The 2019 RAV4 offers three different AWD systems. In LE and XLE models, the optional AWD can send up to 50 percent of available torque to the rear wheels when necessary. Standard on AWD-equipped Limited gas and Adventure grade models, Dynamic Torque Vectoring is added to the AWD system, which uses special couplings to manage torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels. As a result, should one rear wheel lose contact with the surface – during trail driving, for example – torque will flow to the grounded wheel to help keep the vehicle moving. In driving situations where AWD is not needed, Rear Driveline Disconnect uses a ratchet-type dog clutch to disengage the rear wheels and stop the rear drive shaft’s rotation. That reduces the energy needed to propel the vehicle, therefore helping to reduce fuel consumption. "SUBSCRIBE NOW"

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