For 2016, Toyota has finally debuted its Hybrid option for the RAV4. The RAV4 has received some minor aesthetic updates, as well. The 2016 RAV4, chockfull of standard equipment and features as well as a plethora of room, is an incredibly well-rounded crossover with an affordable price tag. Not to mention, the RAV4 is known for its dependability and fantastic resale value.
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 comes with a highly anticipated hybrid engine option. The hybrid engine builds on the original engine by adding two electric motors and has an estimated fuel economy of 34 city/31 highway MPGs. The hybrid model has 194 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. Other than that, the engines in the hybrid and non-hybrid options are the same. The non-hybrid RAV4 is available in either front-wheel or all wheel drive, has 176 horsepower and is capable 172 lb-ft of torque. The front-wheel drive is capable of 24 city/ 31 highway MPGs while the all-wheel drive is 22 city/29 highway mpg. While you lose fuel-economy when opting for the all-wheel drive, you gain towing power. In all-wheel drive, the RAV4 can tow up to 1,500 pounds. The RAV4 can reach 60 mph from 0 in a little bit less than 10 seconds.
The 2016 Toyota RAV4 comes in four trim levels: the LE, XLE, SE and Limited trim. Standard features in the base trim, the LE, include: Bluetooth, USB and Aux cord inputs, Entune with 6.1- inch display, remote keyless entry, MP3 decoder, steering wheel mounted audio controls, rear window driver, 6-speaker audio system, trip computer and car immobilizer. The top trim, the Limited adds distance pacing cruise control, garage door transmitter, reverse sensing system in the front and rear and fully automatic headlights. The Limited trim also comes with leather upholstery.
Aside from an array of standard features, the 2016 RAV4 also includes a newly updated interior. Sitting in the RAV4, you’ll find that the driver’s seat is very supportive and comfortable. Softex, a soft, faux-leather material used for the upholstery, is a very believable substitute for the real thing. Toyota used beautiful contrasting colors for the upholstery, giving the 2016 RAV4 a modern and upscale look. One of the RAV4’s best selling points however would be its enormous amount of cargo space. With the back seats folded, cargo room is 73.4 cubic feet, while the seats are raised, space is 38.4 cubic feet. The exterior of the 2016 RAV4 has also received some slight changes. Lines on the RAV4’s body have been sharpened, giving it a more aggressive aesthetic than that of previous years.
The biggest update this year for the Toyota RAV4 is its hybrid option. With the hybrid engine, you can not only save money on gas, but also reduce your carbon footprint! For 2016, the RAV4 also gets an updated aesthetic, with a sharper-looking exterior and more luxurious interior. With an attractive price-tag, good looks, all the cargo space you need and the money-saving hybrid engine, the RAV4 is a phenomenal crossover option.
The MSRP for the 2016 Toyota RAV4 is $24,350.
