Going mainstream helps RAV4 stand out by Richard Cazeau
Often touted as the vehicle that created the compact crossover segment, consumers care little for history and instead want a product that fits their modern needs and wants; which is why the Toyota RAV4 came to be in the first place.
So with demand for the small soft-roader waning, a fourth-generation RAV4 is here, looking to attract new buyers with more sport and more style, though without a few of the features we’ve come to expect.
SPORTY AND SOPHISTICATED
Dressed to impress, the new RAV4 is cooler than ever with a new front fascia, a lower roofline, sportier alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Mirroring the sort of swoopy lines that characterize modern competitors like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-5, it’s certain to resonate more clearly with car shoppers looking for a more stylish cute-ute.
With a look unseen on any Toyota products, it comes to a point with angled headlights and an under-biting front bumper. Of course, higher trim levels deliver plenty of chrome detailing, with foglights included with XLE and Limited trims. With the new style come new wheels with 17-inch rollers standard while 18s are fitted to the Limited trim. Optional on LE models and standard on Limited and XLE trims are roof rails to help keep the look sporty though with a premium touch.
^^^Idk. The previous Escape sold well and that was dated as heck. Oh well. Yeah the Escape and CR-V gave the RAV4 a run for the money. Obviously this will help with sales as its new. We'll see how it holds out. At least its more "expressive" design.
__________________ America: Divided by ideology, united by tragedy.
^^^Idk. The previous Escape sold well and that was dated as heck. Oh well. Yeah the Escape and CR-V gave the RAV4 a run for the money. Obviously this will help with sales as its new. We'll see how it holds out. At least its more "expressive" design.
The Escape was really dated. The square boxy lines on a truck frame. The one thing it had going for it was being cheap and hard plasticy interior. You could get a base 4 cylinder for about $15,000 I saw in advertisements. You can do that with any SUV or even the Matrix.
The new design for the RAV4 will be able to compete. It is still a safe design I think. I really like the new Escape's look. Too bad it already had some major recalls.
The Following User Says Thank You to exbauer For This Useful Post:
So is the MPG going to vary depending on which option you chose, Eco or Sporty?
They don't inherently affect fuel economy, all they do is encourage a type of driving. Eco mode dulls everything down, thus the car attempts to refuse your attempts at driving aggressively. Sport mode does the opposite. If you drive on Eco mode aggressively versus someone who's driving on sport rather passively, you can be sure the aggressive driver will have used more fuel.
__________________
1986 MX-73 Cressida 5M-GE 290,000+ kms - SOLD (1986-2013)
2004 GD-67 Impreza EJ25 230,000+ kms - new daily
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
ToyotaNation.com is an independent Toyota/Lexus enthusiast website. ToyotaNation.com is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion names and logos are trademarks owned by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Linear Mode
