Ireland’s best-selling hybrid SUV, the Toyota RAV4, is launching in a long-range All-Wheel-Drive Plug-In Hybrid in Ireland in Q4 2021. Boasting a best in class driving range of up to 75km in zero emissions EV mode (WLTP) on a full battery charge, this new SUV comes in two grades (Sol and Sport) with prices starting from €48,275.
The new RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid draws on more than 20 years of Toyota leadership in hybrid powertrain technology. This newest version is claimed to be more powerful, yet environmentally cleaner and more efficient than any car in its class and will sit at the pinnacle of the fifth generation of the RAV4 range. Its introduction strengthens and extends the appeal of the RAV4, the model which created the market for recreational SUVs, and which has amassed more than 10 million worldwide sales.
The RAV4 PHEV operates as an authentic electric vehicle. EV running is its default mode, in which it can cover up to 98 km in urban driving (City WLTP cycle) on a full battery charge, comfortably more than the average European daily commute. Toyota claims that it also outperforms all its rivals in terms of low emissions and fuel economy. The model’s final homologation data indicates 22 g/m CO2 and 1.0 l/100km (Combined WLTP cycle). Customers can use the RAV4 Plug in as a pure electric car during the week, and then rely on the hybrid battery for long drives, meaning still great fuel efficiency and no range anxiety. This quality and high standard of battery attests to Toyota’s battery expertise, honed with over 20 years of hybrid experience.
When extra engine power is needed, the capability of the 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine is present. Battery charging is simple and safe and Toyota claims that it can be accomplished in 2.5 hours using a 230 V/32 A connection.
New Hybrid System
The new RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s efficiency is unique in its class in offering an authentic EV drive. In fact, EV mode is the default: the hybrid engine will not intervene, even with hard use of the accelerator pedal, giving the driver the freedom to cover around 75 km (WLTP cycle) and easily achieve speeds of 120 km/h – suitable for motorway driving – with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions. And under City WLTP cycle driving, the EV range can reach 98 km. Acceleration is a joy and driven by the engine’s responsiveness and the higher output battery RAV4 PHEV achieves zero to 100km/ in just six seconds.
Depending on the battery state of charge (SOC), the vehicle will automatically switch to highly efficient hybrid operation.
