Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP) drew first blood from its competitors with the recent unveiling of the fifth-generation RAV4. Regarded as the crossover SUV that took the automotive world by storm when it was introduced globally in 1994, the RAV4 earned its spurs when it endeared itself to the consumers from its increased loading capacity, higher visibility, and the option of four-wheel drive (4WD) that is usually found only in full-sized SUVs. It was a compact vehicle with the benefits of an SUV, plus the maneuverability and fuel economy of a sedan. It was the perfect runabout vehicle, hence its name Recreational Activity Vehicle (RAV) with the four representing the 4WD capability of the RAV4.

With TMP President Satoru Suzuki leading the festivities, the company unveiled the all-new RAV4 at the BGC Amphitheater in Taguig City early last week. “The all-new RAV4 is a vehicle that embodies Toyota’s values-from its sporty design, powerful performance, and outstanding safety features. Built with the Toyota New Global Architecture [TNGA], we can expect this SUV to deliver only the best driving experience,” Suzuki told Fast Times.

Updated engine and refined interiors
Like its predecessors, the latest iteration of the RAV4 sits low to the ground, has a lower , with repositioned door-mounted outer mirrors. Inspired by TNGA, the RAV4 comes equipped with a newly-developed front and rear suspension system that equates to a more supple ride and responsive handling.

Lurking under the hood is an updated 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine with Dual VVT-I with VVT- (Variable valve timing intelligent system ) to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Toyota engineers revealed the engine set-up provides better performance without compromising fuel economy.

Step inside the cockpit and you’ll see a thinner, low-set instrument gauge clusters that has sleek horizontal lines that flows into the door panels. The seating configuration can be arranged by the driver by way of eight adjustable modes with memory and lumbar support. This is a plus feature for short-limbed and vertically-challenged individuals.

Being a recreational vehicle, the RAV4 comes with a list of safety features which includes seven strategically placed airbags, eight eye front and rear sensors, back-up camera, anti-lock braking system with emergency brake signal, and vehicle stability control (VSC).

The current generation RAV4 comes in six color hues with three special colors namely: Super White, Attitude Black and Dark Blue Mica Metallic, which requires a three-month delivery waiting time. of this urban runabout starts at P1.638 million for the entry level LE model to as high as P2.188 million for the top-tier LTD version.

And if you want your car to be a car show ready and in top condition all the time visit Blade Auto Center nationwide, we offer global brands such as; Sparco, OMP, Goodyear, Polaroid, Mothers, Pioneer, Pertua, and Chupa Chups.