[Star Test Drive] Toyota RAV4, HYBE-led Myeong Ga-ui (CEO) SUV has arrived

*This content was translated by AI.

Star One-Line Review

If you can't find a reason to embark on an electric vehicle adventure? Buy the Toyota RAV4.

GOOD

- The PHEV runs quietly and smoothly, like a Lexus.

- Toyota Safety Sense moves like a 'ninja': discreet yet meticulous.

BAD

- The maximum torque of 23.8kg.m delivered by the full-throttle 2.5L engine is too modest.

- The thin carpet mats and plastic-heavy interior naturally evoke a frugal mindset.

Competing Models

- Kia Sportage: Avoids CVT, is larger, flashier, and more spacious.

- Mini Countryman: Clear evidence that it is not run by old-school bosses.

Since the first-generation RAV4 was launched in 1994, the model released in Korea in 2005 began sales in 2009. As an SUV in a class comparable to the Sportage, it gained fame as a leisure SUV based on torque vectoring AWD, showcasing meticulous Japanese craftsmanship. The RAV4 is the best-selling Toyota SUV globally, and this sixth-generation model not only changes its platform, design, and powertrain but also incorporates SDV value, presenting worth beyond a simple generation change.

The sixth-generation RAV4 has changed its model name to RAV 4 (Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive), discontinued torque vectoring AWD, and switched to an E-Four system with a motor on the rear axle. The biggest change is the introduction of HEV and PHEV as key lineup options, with the GR Sport trim added at the top tier. Prices range from 49.27 million won to 61.80 million won; according to Toyota Korea, the main trim is expected to be the HEV LIMITED at 57.46 million won.

The overall design first catches the eye with DRLs drawn in a 'U' shape. Overall, it moves away from the previous streamlined, muscular body design, using bold lines and surfaces to convey a strong masculine character. Additionally, 20-inch wheels and tires are placed in large wheel houses to enhance its presence as an SUV. The rear section features a somewhat different design theme from the front; the tail lamps are deeply carved into the inner side of the rear fenders to make the vehicle appear wider, and the trunk lid and color are configured differently. The rear bumper offsets the otherwise plain atmosphere by thinly inserting reflectors on both sides.

The interior reflects Toyota's proprietary software platform, 'Arene,' and while claiming to be an SDV, it also incorporates the latest Toyota Safety Sense into a center display enlarged to 12.9 inches. The head-up display remained sharp even on bright days, and a camera sensor mounted inside the steering wheel immediately issued warnings if the driver missed the forward view. The seats are generally soft yet firm. With a lowered window line, visibility forward and to the sides is high and open, providing a refreshing feel. The second row offers ample knee, head, and shoulder room relative to its class, and convenience features such as 15W USB-C charging ports and cup holders are well provided.

The trunk can be opened with a kick sensor and offers a capacity of 749 liters, 16 liters more than the fifth generation; the PHEV model has 672 liters, 15 liters more than the fifth generation. This is because the PHEV has a larger battery. This is a key point where the battery's mounting position can be inferred.

Even if punch is lacking, efficiency and ride comfort dominate

The RAV4 test drive was conducted in a rotation of HEV, PHEV, and PHEV GR Sport. The most impressive was the PHEV XSE trim (61.60 million won). While the design and materials were good, the ride quality was excellent in almost all situations. It is easy to notice that the HEV has also seen significant improvements. According to Toyota, high-strength and high-damping adhesives were widely applied to the vehicle floor to simultaneously improve vibration damping and rigidity. The installation point rigidity of the suspension increased by +31% in the front and +27% in the rear. The body torsional rigidity increased by 9.7%.

Especially impressive is the suspension that delivers damping force even at extremely low speeds, characteristic of Japanese SUVs. Numerically, the 2.5L non-turbo gasoline engine's 23.8kg.m of torque did not inspire high expectations. However, the electric motor provided support, pushing the vehicle body more faithfully than expected. It consistently delivers punch in the mid-to-high speed range, though engine noise is significantly more intrusive in the HEV trim compared to the PHEV.

Braking performance exhibits a sensation far superior to expectations. The new RAV4 incorporates an on-demand pressurized type electronic control brake system with electric cylinders, making pedal response intuitive and natural. The Toyota RAV4 is particularly impressive during continuous cornering. During turns, it applies braking to the outer front wheels and inner rear wheels in conjunction with the steering to suppress body roll.

The active driving assist provided by Toyota Safety Sense is also astonishing. While we learned from Toyota's introduction that the operating range of cameras and sensors has widened, using it on the road reveals a smoothness of operation that is surprising. It immediately and smoothly detected vehicles changing lanes while recognizing the lane and staying in the center of it.

The GR Sport trim is the top model of the Toyota RAV4, but except for design elements, the value of the name 'GR' did not leave a clear impression. Instead, it became an opportunity to further spark curiosity about Toyota's high-performance division, GR. Toyota Korea stated that it plans to introduce various GR models and equipment this year and next year.

Overall, the Toyota RAV4 has become more meticulous. Body rigidity has increased, output has risen, and it remains an easy-to-handle SUV. This is the result of added advantages such as a width narrower than expected and excellent visibility. While there is a personal regret that the torque could have been larger, the efficiency is overwhelmingly good, easily achieving 20 km per liter. It has created far better advantages as a mass-market SUV.

I felt that Toyota's ability lies in creating a refreshing sense of unity that makes the driver and vehicle feel like one body, while also making the car so easy to handle throughout the drive. On the other hand, the e-CVT still evokes no emotion, and one wonders if AWD is even necessary. Nevertheless, the Toyota RAV4 is an SUV with such high efficiency and build quality that it makes you want to buy it. If you cannot find a reason to embark on an electric vehicle adventure, you should buy the Toyota RAV4.

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*This content was translated by AI.