Toyota Motor Corporation introduced the fifth generation of its RAV4 crossover to the public, ushering in a slew of redesigns and updates. Though they may look similar at first glance, closer scrutiny reveals that the 2019 and 2018 Toyota RAV4 models are actually worlds apart from each other. We break down the differences one by one.
Outside, the new RAV4 hosts a much-enlarged grille with a more hexagonal shape. The grille is appended with beefy elements, including the blacked-out lower bumper, boxy fog lamp housings, and silver bumper molding. Looking at the front, you’d think the new RAV4 was actually a pickup truck.
At the sides, the fenders take on a more angular appearance, and black cladding is thrown in for good measure. The side cladding is also thicker in the new model than in the predecessor. The sheetmetal also receives more sculpting.
At the rear, the spoiler above the windshield remains, albeit with the addition of blacked-out awning-like supports on the sides. At the rear, a door garnish has been added, linking the retooled taillights to one another. The garnish appears chrome in some variants, and body color in others.
Toyota takes a more streamlined approach with the RAV4’s cabin, with the dash and center console now appearing as one solid element instead of the disparate way they appear in the outgoing model. The touchscreen is also now floating, which helps keep driver’s eyes on the road. Other improved creature comforts include an 8-way power adjustable driver’s with lumbar support and memory, seat heating, and massive panoramic sunroof. The surfaces also boast softer materials, solidifying the fact that this is the most RAV4 model ever.
Although both the old and new RAV4s house a 2.5-liter engine under the hood, the newer version is actually more powerful, boasting 206hp and 249Nm over the old one’s 178hp and 233Nm capabilities. This new model engine is mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the front wheels. The old one carried a 6-speed automatic, and came in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations.
The old RAV4, it offered ample SRS airbags, with the RAV4 Premium having curtain shield, knee and side airbags apart from the standard. Standard safety includes Toyota’s signature Anti-Lock Brake system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. The Toyota RAV4 2018 also has Vehicle Stability Control.
The new RAV4 gets seven airbags, ABS, and Electronic Stability Control. The Vehicle Stability Control Feature gets updated with the addition of Hill Climb Assist and Trailer Sway Control.
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 had more variants than the 2019 model—four to the new one’s three.
2018 Toyota RAV4
This RAV4 model offered to choose from: Blue Metallic, Orange Metallic, Dark Red Mica Metallic, Bronze Metallic Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, Black Mica and a White Pearl color option for an additional PHP15,000.
2019 Toyota RAV4
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is available in nine different colors - Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Super White, Dark Blue Mica, Cyan Metallic, Red Mica, Urban Khaki, and the pricier White Pearl.
Shopping for a new or used Toyota RAV4? We’ve got a fine selection here on Carmudi. Check out what’s available by clicking on this link.
Photo/s from Toyota
Also read:
Copyright © Carmudi 2014-2024. All Rights Reserved.
