Toyota has announced that its popular RAV4 SUV will gain a new petrol hybrid variant as part of its next facelift.
With the last-generation RAV4 launched back in 2013, the upcoming facelift is aimed at introducing a greener option to the mini-SUV’s range.
It’s fair to say that the Toyota brand is a pioneer of efficient hybrid technology, with the Prius hybrid being the first mass-produced hybrid car. With multiple models in the Toyota range already offering hybrid versions – including the Yaris and Auris – it was only a matter of time until one of its SUV derivatives gained a hybrid powertrain.
With a petrol electric hybrid powertrain on board, the new RAV4 hybrid is likely to rival models like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which has been well-received in the UK. Although details on the new RAV4 hybrid are sparse, it is likely that it will feature a similar engine line-up to its Auris and Prius siblings – which use a 1.8-litre petrol unit.
As the hybrid addition is part of a mid-life facelift, the RAV4 will also gain some aesthetic enhancements. The rear-end teaser image released by Toyota shows that the rear lights will be reworked to offer a slightly sharper and more aggressive look. If the recent Auris facelift is anything to go by, then the new RAV4 will also gain reshaped headlights and bumper.
The new Toyota RAV4 hybrid will make its public debut at the 2015 New York Auto Show next week.
