Newly Redesigned 2019 RAV4

Apr 5, 2018

The 2019 RAV4 recently made its debut at the New York International Auto Show and saying it turned heads is an understatement. This popular SUV has been completely redesigned for the upcoming year and some say this change was brought about by Toyota seeking to expand its RAV4 customer base.

Exterior Style

Perhaps the most noticeable difference is the redesigned exterior style of the 2019 RAV4. With a much bolder and aggressive look, this SUV rapidly got
everyone’s attention. It features more pronounced wheel-arch covers and a big, upright grille. Once again, Toyota will be offering an Adventure trim, which will look slightly different and appeal to outdoorsy types as opposed to a more urban look and feel with the other trims.

As for size, the RAV4 is based on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform which is a more space-efficient design. Despite being slightly shorter overall, the wheelbase is longer and the car is a little wider, meaning more interior space.

Connectivity and Transmission

The standard equipment levels will include the latest Entune 3.0 infotainment system as well as Amazon Alexa. It will also include Toyota Safety 2.0 which will further enhance safety levels with pedestrian warning, lane departure warning, and pre-collision systems.

In terms of the drivetrain, the previous 6-speed automatic transmission has been replaced by a new 8-speed unit on the gasoline powered models while the hybrid version will keep a CVT transmission.

Engine and Drivetrain

The base engine will remain a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder unit and although we do not have information on horsepower, the previous model produced 176 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. We heard that the new model will produce slightly more power while offering better fuel economy.

As for the drivetrain, AWD is an option in the 2019 RAV4 which will appeal to customers who plan to do more than commute to work and back. To make it even better, the AWD system now features torque vectoring for the first time and to keep the efficiency levels as high as possible, rear-axle disconnect is also a brand new feature.

Modern Interior

The RAV4 remains a 5-seater but the rear row and cargo space have benefited from the new Toyota New Global Architecture platform. Its interior features have been redesigned to include rectangular air vents as opposed to the rotary vents. A large infotainment screen sits atop the center of the dashboard, replacing the smaller integrate unit. Higher trim levels will offer some upgrades but the overall feel from behind the wheel is of a small SUV that is functional yet luxurious.

We’re very excited about the new 2019 Toyota RAV4, and cannot wait to have it at our dealership, but in the meantime feel free to check out our 2018 RAV4 inventory!