2012/03/22

The Toyota RAV4: Canada’s popular home-grown fun, functional and feature-packed compact SUV comes with upgraded audio systems and more for 2012




TOYOTA CANADA - The built in Canada Toyota RAV4 is the compact SUV that's all about choice – and no matter what you choose, you'll enjoy the RAV4's fun to drive nature, bold styling and very functional design. Choose the extra fuel efficiency of a two-wheel-drive four-cylinder, the added confidence of four wheel drive, or the additional power of a V6.

"As one of Canada's favourite built-in-Canada vehicles, the Toyota RAV4 delivers a winning combination of driving fun, functionality that fits busy modern lifestyles, safety, comfort and style, and the fuel efficiency and quality that Canadians demand," said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "And as one of Consumer Reports Top Picks for 2012, Canadian drivers can have confidence that they're driving a vehicle that leads in safety and reliability."

What's new for 2012:

·        The RAV4 Limited and RAV4 V6 Limited are now standard equipped with leather seats, including heated seats for the driver and front passenger, plus a 6.1" display audio system with navigation.

·        All models receive an upgraded audio system as standard, adding Bluetooth capability, a USB audio input and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

·        All models now feature all season floor mats as standard.

Power and performance

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 delivers big fun in two sizes, with a choice of two sophisticated engines that combine power and efficiency.

Available on four models, RAV4's 2.5L four-cylinder engine delivers up to 179 horsepower and a peak 172 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with a four-speed automatic Super ECT transmission.

For more power, choose one of three RAV4 V6 models and enjoy a 269-peak horsepower 3.5L V6 that delivers up to 246 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a five-speed automatic Super ECT transmission.

The 2.5L 4-cylinder RAV4 is one of the most fuel-conscious vehicles in its class, achieving a combined city/highway fuel efficiency rating of 8.3 L / 100 KM in its 2WD configuration and 8.6 L / 100 KM for 4WD models. The additional power enjoyed by the RAV4 V6 is remarkably efficient too, at 9.4 L / 100 KM combined.

Handling and Control

Control starts with steering, and every RAV4 features highly responsive, fuel efficient electric power steering.

Four-wheel drive models feature Toyota's Active Torque Control System with Four-Wheel Drive Lock Switch to aid in all-road capability under wet, snowy or icy conditions. An electronically controlled coupling at the front and rear differentials distributes torque between the front and rear wheels as needed. This allows 4WD RAV4s to switch on the fly between front and four wheel drive as conditions warrant, enhancing stability while improving fuel efficiency.

Safety

From its impact absorbing structure to advanced active and passive safety systems, every 2012 Toyota RAV4 is engineered to help prevent accidents, and to protect driver and passengers if an incident occurs, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers, including the Star Safety System.

Pricing and availability

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is now on sale at Canadian Toyota Dealers. The RAV4 starts at suggested MSRPs as follows: 
RAV4 2WD: $24,865; 
RAV4 4WD: $27,500; 
RAV4 4WD Sport: $30,810; 
RAV4 4WD Limited: $35,045;
RAV4 4WD V6: $30,115; 
RAV4 4WD V6 Sport: $32,565;
RAV4 4WD V6 Limited: $37,300.