Toyota wants to build a RAV4 for everybody

With the 2016 mid-cycle enhancement of its fourth-generation RAV4, introduced in 2013, Toyota has expanded the appeal of the range of both environmental and fans alike. For those who lean green mien, there is a hybrid of our new RAV4 recently reviewed; for those who are more interested in driving satisfaction, there is a machine that is shown here, the new SE RAV4.

While the SE gets all cosmetic update enjoyed by the entire 2016 RAV4 lineup-a hoodline higher, new lights, simulated skid plates front and back-it's also got a touch to distinguish themselves. They include entering a more aggressive-looking honeycomb grille to its LED projector-beam lamps, unique 18-inch wheels, and front "skid plate" jutting forward like a clear bottom lip of a giant, glossy goldfish. There are also S-Code special paint design, which replaces bit lower black with silver and can be combined with Super White, Black Sand Pearl, or electrical storm Blue paint in the rest of the body panels.

Inside, SEL would contrasting stitching on the company Softex (artificial leather) seats and shifter. Seat itself has a slightly larger side bolsters and eight-way power adjustment and memory driver's seat-position. Available interior colors Black and Black / Cinnamon combined with black headliner and Gunmetal Gray trim.

Sporty Do as., ,

cosmetic touches like all well and good, but where, you might wonder, is upgrading the performance of the SES? Energizer under the hood is 2AR-FE engine was introduced at the same last generation RAV4 and used by every other member of the line except the hybrid. Transmission also with six-speed automatic, but in SE comes with paddle shifters to facilitate manual gear selection.

The mechanical changes are in suspension, which has been made more athletic around, thanks to stiffer springs, anti-roll bars are larger and firmer damping. We are not talking Porsche 911 here, but compared to regular RAV4, the difference is palpable.

experience the difference

On a quick drive through one of the winding mountain roads of Southern California, upgraded suspension provided excellent body and wheel control at high speeds and handle mid-corner bumps very well, even when the body is heeled over. And the RAV4 feels very solid structure, never emit any creaks and groans.

Brake feel is also very good, as in most of today's Toyota, with the pedal is solid and linear response. We are interested, however, to see whether the cease increased distance from our testing of the current generation as we get our gear onboard, 2016 models. Unfortunately, the same excellence in feel can not be found on the steering wheel, which is a bit sticky in the middle and did not come back very fast on the highway. However, the stiffer suspension does not help SE changed in more responsive than the standard model can manage.

With no engine changes, there is no straight line performance improvement. When we examine the current generation 2013 RAV4 AWD with this engine, the car reaches zero to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and cover the quarter mile in 16.5 at 85 mph. It's not a rocket, but it is more than fast enough to keep up with traffic. SE paddle shifters makes it easy to keep this engine in the powerband, but the shift is still on the lazy side, if you are operating the transmission in manual or automatic mode or its Eco Sport mode.

As in all RAV4s, rear seat space looks good on paper with 46 cubic feet, but when you try to seat, you'll find the H-point is quite low and that the thigh most people 'do not contact the pillow. trunk space, however, is excellent, and a low lift-over height is awesome.

Nothing builds entries truly compact sport-luxury SUV segment-at least on the outside and RAV4 SE-makers are no exception. We will say this model handles most similar to the Mazda CX-5, which is a favorite of our class, but choosing the winner between the two will require direct comparison tests. For buyers who are in the Toyota family and want a compact SUV with a precision that no more than most, SE is a good choice.

To get one, you will pay the price for the entry-level, such as the SE Slot between the previous two RAV4 XLE and Limited trim-in lineup. That means a base price of $ 30,165 for a front-drive version and $ 31,565 with all-wheel drive. For the price, you get a good level of content and convenience features. Consider the improved road manners valuable bonus.

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