The much awaited 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has hit the United Kingdom and folks over there can now start placing orders for the fuel-efficient crossover.
This will be Toyota's eighth variation of the RAV4 series, a fuel efficient and low emission version that is priced starting at £23,695.
The new hybrid is, of course, highlighted by its non-turbo 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine along with an electric half of the powertrain. In all, the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid will be able to deliver up to 194 horsepower with the option to run the vehicle on battery power through the EV mode switch.
It should, however, be noted that the EV mode will work for just 0.6 miles at 25 miles per hour. Other than that, the RAV4 Hybrid will also get additional electric power from its regenerative braking for maximum use of electric power.
On the outside, the RAV4 carries a bit of a change. That includes thinner headlights and newly styled lower bumpers. The taillights have been upgraded a bit and a shark fin antenna rounds it up on the outside.
Inside, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 looks pretty much the same sans the new cup holders, a 12-volt outlet at the back, light-emitting diode (LED) center console lights, and a new sunglass holder.
It also comes with a 4.2-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) display and diagram that helps keep the driver aware of the hybrid system's status.
Other than that, there will be new equipment levels, trim levels, and Toyota Safety Sense that will be optional except for the entry-level Active model.
For those who can and want to take it to the next level, there are other editions of the Toyota RAV4 to consider.
Like in most cars, higher models would include added features that cannot be found on the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Active base model. In the Business Edition Model for example, one will get several features like climate control, different wipers, and a handy rear view camera in tow, among others.
The Business Edition Plus, on the other hand, will come with additional features, including LED lights, a power tailgate, and keyless entry features that all the more spice up the differences between it and the other variants.
As for the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Icon, there will be a powertrain and four-wheel drive that interested buyers can choose from. The four-wheel drive includes striking features, with 18-inch mag wheels and an electrically adjustable driver's seat heading the list.
Lastly, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Excel model will come with bonuses that include a Touch 2 with Go in-car entertainment system, leather seats, roof rails, and helpful parking sensors that should come in handy when one has to properly fit in tight parking slots.
Toyota U.K. dealers are now taking in pre-orders, with the first cars set to be released by January 2016.
