Toyota debuts latest plug-in hybrid RAV4

Japanese automobile manufacturer - Toyota launched its latest plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of RAV4 2020 this week. The Toyota RAV4 made its way into Bangladesh's market in the early 2000s. Since then the car has been able to make a stand among the lines of SUVs. While many models of Toyota are imported from Indonesia, the RAV4 lands on to the streets of Bangladesh directly from Japan.

The latest RAV4 is powered by a 2.5-litre Toyota Hybrid System II engine, high-output lithium-ion battery, and motors placed in the front and back which, altogether, can deliver a maximum of 225kW system output. According to Toyota, the RAV4 PHEV can cover a range of 95km while it is running on BEV (battery electric vehicle) mode.

On hybrid mode, it can go up to 22km/L and has the capacity to hold 55 litres of gasoline which can cover a cruising range of 1220km. The battery can control the engine revs leading it to make less noise than usual. Besides, its engine can cover 0-100kmph in just 6 seconds.

The 2020 RAV4 can provide a maximum of 1,500W external power that can be very useful during a power outage. On BEV mode, it only uses power from the batteries and if the battery drains out, the engine, on HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) mode, can also deliver power supply of 1,500W for up to three days.

The front mesh grille in this model replaced the kidney grille from the previous model. The LED headlights got a much sportier look compared to 2019s stretched-out ones. The 19-inch aluminium wheels on the latest model kept up with the previous one's pattern. However, the design now has left more room for air to pass through.

After a complete makeover, the 2020 RAV4 comes in a much bolder look compared to the previous versions.

The entire interior of this SUV comes in black with red stitching, giving the car a much elegant look. The dashboard is fitted with a nine-inch display audio that can fulfil rider's multimedia needs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto TM finally made its way into the latest RAV4.

Alongside entertainment, the SUV also provides seat heating options for the passengers on the front and left and right rear seats. From the inside, the new RAV4 is very spacious; along with the lithium-ion battery and a spare tyre, it can fit 490 litres of luggage in the back.

The Toyota RAV4 PHEV comes with a two-tone colour setting separating the lower body, roof, and door mirrors from the rest of the vehicle. Its signature colour is Emotional Red II which is paired with Black Mica. It also offers four other colour combinations to choose from. However, Toyota has not revealed them yet.