Finally the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid!

Wonderful 2.5L Camry Hybrid drivetrain and all the utility you could ever want.

Wayne Gerdes - CleanMPG - Mar. 26, 2015



2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Just a peek... For now.



This morning Toyota finally announced the RAV4 Hybrid that it will show at this years New York International Auto Show on April 2nd.



It should have the same lineage as the very intriguing 2015 Lexus NX 300h. Meaning a modern interior and appointments and a little more edgy exterior design.



I will assume an AWD variant will be available or will be soon after the launch of the FWD model?



I also expect to see the Avalon/HiHy/NXh Qi built in charging pad although hopefully it is sized for today’s phablets and works better than its predecessors.



2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid drivetrain



What I am expecting is a duplicate of that in the NX 300h. Meaning the 2.5L Atkinson-cycle I4 mated to the company’s latest HSD iteration.



Engine enhancements will include a water-to-oil cooler for the electric drive motor and a revised front drive reduction ratio, improving fuel economy and hill climbing.



The new P314 transmission provides a kick-down function for greater acceleration performance. The transmission offers sequential shift which allows maximum power to be delivered on demand and increases engine braking when decelerating.



The hybrid battery pack will weigh less than 100 pounds and like all Toyota hybrids, not impinge on passenger or cargo volume compared to the non-hybrid.



A downsized Power Control Unit (PCU) with a double-sided inverter cooling system is sure to be included.



On the AWD front, an electric motor to drive the rear axle like the 14/15 Toyota HiHy while the front axle is propelled by gasoline or electric power, or a mixture of both. Torque distribution to the rear wheels will be dependent on driving dynamics and road conditions, and should provide some rear-wheel torque at start-off to minimize chance of wheel-spin under acceleration and on slippery road surfaces.



The rear motor just like the larger MG2 traction motor up front can regen power back to the pack during deceleration or downhill glides.



Expect the NXs HV control software that minimizes engine flare during acceleration and increases the sensation of linear acceleration.



Like all Toyota hybrids, expect to see the very familiar Eco, Normal and Sport mode.



Similar to our first look at the Prius v back in 2011, the RAV4 will incorporate a damping control function to reduce pitching on uneven road surfaces and increase ride comfort and stability.



I am hoping the RAV4 Hybrid will use the Corolla’s LED headlamps with LED accents. This remains to be seen but they are stylish, great in snow and use significantly less energy than the halogen’s most have grown up with.



I am also expecting the RAV4 Hybrid to arrive with 60/40 split fold down rear seats with not only tilt but a slide mechanism, ala Prius v. The NX incorporates a lift mechanism that I doubt will make it into the RAV4 Hybrid however.

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid





A larger look at the teaser that Toyota sent out.

I will leave the interior/exterior detail, infotainment and safety attributes on hold until we see the final version from NY next week. I tend to get a little wordy and my guesstimates are just that. Flip a coin and you may or may not win a prize. ;)



All in, I am going to try and hold Marian’s and my parents buying decision off until this vehicle reaches dealership showrooms probably sometime in early summer. Maybe you should too?

Finally the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid!