New model grade, more hybrids coming for RAV4

Toyota have announced an expansion of their top-selling RAV4 SUV range for Australia, with a new model grade added, hybrid drivetrains available across the range and selected other upgrades introduced.

The new addition is the ‘XSE’ which slots in between the existing GXL and Cruiser grades and is defined by a two-tone paint finish (black roof over colour) and black accents on the bumpers, grille, mirror caps, foglights and exterior trim. The XSE also features 18-inch alloys finished in black.

Inside, the XSE upgrades the GXL trim level with ‘Softex’ seat upholstery and adds two-stage front seat heating and 10-stage power adjustment for the driver’s seat.

Other upgrades include a 7.0-inch dash display, 8.0-inch centre console touchscreen and power tailgate, while a black headliner and pillar trim, leather-accented door trims and “unique mood lighting” are added.

The RAV4 XSE will only be offered with the 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain, but front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants will be available, offering 160kW and 163kW combined output, respectively.

RAV4 XSE list pricing starts at $42,825 for the 2WD version and $45,825 for AWD.

The local market’s adoption of the hybrid RAV4 variants has seen the 163kW petrol-electric hybrid option added to the Edge AWD variant for 2022, meaning hybrid power is now available range-wide.

For 2022, the RAV4 Edge also adds rear cross-traffic alert and parking support brake safety technologies.

Changes across the RAV4 range for 2022 include the adoption of a new LED projector headlight design for the hybrids, new LED foglights and a new Mineral Blue paint option.

All RAV4s with the 2.0 petrol engine will add stop-start tech and there are also new finishes or new designs for the wheels on all grades except the Cruiser.

Individual grade changes include DAB+ digital radio, rear seat belt reminder and LED interior lights for the GX, but the manual transmission for this grade has been discontinued.

Illuminated door switches have been added on GXL and higher grades, while the Cruiser gains a digital rearview mirror and more seat adjustment options.

The 2022 RAV4 range, including the all-new XSE grade, is due for Australian release in Q1, 2022.