A hybrid version of the popular compact SUV from Toyota has been announced. The Toyota Rav 4 Hybrid has been a popular model overseas, and this new model looks likely to continue that success.

Internationally there aretwo trim levels: XLE and Limited. Both are equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System. The hybrid (and non-hybrid Rav 4 models) will receiverefreshed exterior styling which gives it a sleeker, more dynamic appearance. The front is dominated by anLED trifecta (Headlights, Daytime Running Lights and Hi-Lo Headlights) while anew rear bumper and lift gate with available LED taillights add a premium look.

Toyota RAV 4 Features

Customer feedback is vital when it comes to refreshed products and Toyota claims it listened to its fans when it came to the refreshed Toyota Rav 4 and added the following features:

Improved interior quality with more premium materialsAvailable 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display in a revised gauge clusterAvailable 7-inch touch-sensitive display audio touch screenLeather steering wheel (excluding LE)Updated interior shifter and window/lock control bezel materialRevised cup holder design to accommodate tall mugs with handlesNew sunglasses holderAdditional USB added to front and one 12V power outlet added to rearNew interior colors (Tan, Beige and on SE a Tan/Black combination)Soft touch material on upper door panel and lower dash

Other useful featuresinclude front and rear parking sonar, available Smart Key, and a Homelink® garage door opener (standard on Limited grade). International models will have an available Scout cell phone based navigation system. All international RAV4 XLE, SE and Limited models will come standard with SiriusXM All-Access Radio with a 3-month complimentary trial. At this stage, I’m not sure what SA units will get.

The Toyota Rav 4 Hybrid and new Rav 4 models also boast numerous safety features:

Pre-Collision SystemForward Collision WarningLane Departure AlertAutomatic High BeamsPedestrian Pre-Collision SystemDynamic Radar Cruise Control

Powering the Toyota Rav 4 hybrid is one of the smart Hybrid Synergy drive engines. In this case, it’s a2.5-litre, petrol enginewhich isassisted by two electric motors. One of these electric motors powers the rear axle, giving it an electric all-wheel drive setup. You’ll see I mention international spec quite a bit. You see, it’s unlikely we’ll see the full Toyota Rav 4 hybrid in SA, but we’ll definitely see some of the tech integrated into our non-hybrid cars soon enough.