2019 Toyota Rav4 Review-New Shape But Same Formula
The Toyota Rav4 is one of Jamaica’s favourite SUVs. Judging by the sheer volume of them on the road it is safe to say it is one of, if not the best selling car in the segment locally.
Toyota has released a new generation of this popular vehicle and it is sure to split opinions amongst Toyota fans.
The previous generation of Rav4 is famous for their modest appearance and rugged reputation. They could commute to work in relative comfort and also manage light off-roading when the time came for it.
Being a Toyota, naturally, reliability was always a strong point. Just add fuel to the tank and keep driving.
That was made possible by the simple yet effective mechanics that were used to build the Rav4.
All that is changing now. Toyota has decided to make the Rav4 bolder and more eye-catching, especially from the front.
The 2019 Rav4 is now not only a ‘safe’ option but also for those who prefer their vehicles to stand out in the crowd.
This new design language is likely a response to their biggest rival Honda. The CRV is a direct competitor for the Rav4 and that car has been getting constant praise for its looks and features.
Honda has always had the edge over Toyota when it comes to stylish designs but that has been changing lately with the new Camry, Corolla etc.
The flagship of the range will be the new hybrid 4 cylinder engine. The 2.5L unit puts out a healthy 219 horsepower.
There will be lesser tunes but with looks this aggressive, this will be the one you want as it has to ‘go’ to match the ‘show’.
The hybrid set up helps to make the car one of the most economical in its class with mpg figures of close to 40 mpg combined.
The car starts at US $25,000 for the base LE version. That would put it over the JA $5 million starting price. My advice would be to try and get the higher spec versions that come with more features and the faster hybrid engine.
It is really disheartening to be in the latest car, but the cheapest slow version.
