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 gorgeous, dynamic, and highly fuel-efficient SUV comes in two grades (Sol and Sport) with prices starting from €48,275* or €354** per month with Toyota Easy PCP Finance.
The new best in class RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid draws on more than 20 years of Toyota leadership in hybrid powertrain technology. This newest version is 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. 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 powerplant ensures efficiency remains class-leading. Battery charging is simple and safe and can be accomplished in 2.5 hours using a 230 V/32 A connection.
Online Reservations
Online reservations are launching for this model and ere is limited supply for 2021, so get your order in early. We also have an exclusive offer for the online reservation customers, which is the PCP finance offer.
This means that customers can get a RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Sport by paying just €49 extra per month, then they would with a RAV4 Hybrid Sport. The nationwide roadshow will run throughout dealer network from 26th August to 16th September.
New Hybrid System
The new RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s efficiency is remarkable. It 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.
Driving Pleasure
The RAV4 Plug-in’s dynamic character builds on the essential strengths of its GA-K platform by taking advantage of an even lower centre of gravity. The GA-K platform also adds the benefits of light weight and high body rigidity, underpinning the RAV4’s “confident and natural” drive. It takes uneven surfaces in its stride, communicating stability, and responds naturally to the driver’s inputs.
The RAV4 Plug-in reinforces its all-wheel drive performance with Trail Mode, an automatic locking system for the limited-slip differential that the driver can engage using a dashboard control. This ensures the best possible grip on slippery and loose surfaces and can help the driver negotiate more challenging off-road conditions.
Design & Packaging
The new model shares the same external dimensions as the RAV4 Hybrid, and its powertrain is designed so that it does not intrude into the cabin. There is just a small decrease in the load space capacity, with the floor being raised by 35 mm. At 520 litres, the volume remains competitive with other models in the segment.
The load space is practical for carrying large items with room for four golf bags or two 77-litre suitcases. Towing capacity is a maximum 1.5 tonnes with a braked trailer, and there is no reduction in the size of the fuel tank, its 55-litre capacity giving the vehicle an exceptional cruising range.
Exterior Design
Externally, only a few small details distinguish the RAV4 Plug-in from its hybrid sibling, reflecting its “refined sports” character. There is a metal-look finish to the lower front moulding and rear garnish above the licence plate, dark chrome detailing in the headlight units and a dark plating finish for the front grille. The rear skid plate is painted black. The charging point is concealed beneath a flap on the rear right-wing.
Interior design
The spacious cabin is fitted with sports seats, with a striking two-tone red and dark grey combination of fabric and synthetic leather as standard. Access to the rear seats is made easy with wide-opening rear doors and a reduced distance between the hip point and sill. Spacious footwells and air vents add to the comfort.
Equipment Features
In addition to a 230 V/150 W power outlet provided as standard to power mobile devices and even home electric appliances of 150 W, there are also 12V sockets in the cabin and load space and Aux/USB sockets for connecting smartphones and music players.
Other standard features include the latest Toyota multimedia system, with smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and illuminated power switches in the door panels.
Toyota Safety Sense
As standard, the new RAV4 Plug-in benefits from the latest generation Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems. Designed to reduce the risk of some of the most common accidents, they alert the driver to hazards and, if necessary, provide braking and steering support to help avoid an impact, or reduce the severity if a collision is unavoidable.
In addition to detecting vehicles on the road ahead, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) can also recognise pedestrians in both day and night-time driving, and cyclists during daylight.
The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is also more sophisticated in its operation, working with the Road Sign Assist (RSA) to automatically reset vehicle speed in line with changes in the speed limit.
The combination of Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist helps keep the RAV4 centred in its traffic lane, providing a sound alert or steering wheel vibration if it detects deviation without the turn indicators being used, then applying steering assistance if necessary to help return the vehicle to its correct path.
Recognition and control performance have been improved so that assistance is also provided through gentle bends, as well as on straight highway sections. As well as lane markings on the road surface, Lane Departure Alert can also recognise road margins.
Commenting on the arrival of RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, Michael Gaynor, Marketing Director, Toyota Ireland said: “Since its initial introduction RAV4 hybrid has been a game changer for Irish SUV fans, and it continues to be the best-selling hybrid SUV in the country. Building upon this stellar reputation, the introduction of a plug-in option will widen the interest in this impressive and desirable vehicle.
“With its multiple best in class features, the EV default driving experience coupled with the impressive 75km to 98km EV mode capabilities are a boon for those who are not quite ready, or are unable, to move to full EV driving at this juncture.
“We believe the new RAV4 Plug-in is the only credible offering on the market during the week for work and as an efficient self-charging hybrid on the weekends for longer journeys.”
Prices and specifications are now available on Toyota.ie.
Please get in touch with your local Toyota dealer if you would like to arrange an appointment for the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Roadshow.
*Price excludes delivery and related fees and €2,500 SEAI Grant
**Full terms and conditions available at Toyota.ie
