The RAV4 benefits from a new front end whose design is loosely inspired by the Corolla and the 2016 Avalon. The crossover gets more angular headlights, a single-slat radiator grille accented by thin strips of chrome and a new lower bumper that incorporates two air intakes. LED tail lamps are available at an extra cost.
A shark fin antenna, new alloy wheel designs and three additional paint colors called Silver Sky Metallic, Black Currant Metallic and Electric Storm Blue round out the updates for the upcoming model year.
Inside, the 2016 RAV4 gains a redesigned instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch configurable TFT screen, an available seven-inch touch screen, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a sunglasses holder, an additional USB port up front and revised cupholders designed to accommodate tall mugs with handles.
The biggest news for 2016 is the addition of a gasoline-electric hybrid model (pictured). The RAV4 Hybrid will be equipped with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology but full technical details are being kept under wraps for the time being. Toyota says that the Hybrid will come standard with all-wheel drive, that it will offer more power than the standard RAV4 and that it will return better gas mileage.
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 will launch this fall. Gasoline-burning models will be offered in LE, XLE, Limited and SE trim levels, while Hybrid buyers will be able to choose from two trims called XLE and Limited, respectively.
Live images by Brian Williams.
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