STONE_COLD
09/12/2005, 15h53
Bon comme spectra n'a pas voulu collaborer, j'ai fait appel à mes sources. :twisted: :lol: :lol:
Je pense beaucoup de monde ici seront déçu. Un nouveau RAV4 pas accessible à toutes les bourses. Aussi pas de version FWD comme aux States.
N'empêche que j'ai hâte de le voir en vrai. Version V6 économique. Version Sport pourrait être intéressant pour moi, reste à savoir si mes 6'3'' fitte dans ce véhicule.
Bonne lecture :lol:
TORONTO, Ontario) – The vehicle that started it all is about to do it again. The all-new, 2006 RAV4 – or Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive – is ready to reinvent Canada’s most popular class of sport utility vehicle, the compact SUV. And that’s only fitting, since Toyota invented the compact SUV segment when it introduced the original RAV4 in 1996.
“The RAV4 is one of the most significant vehicles we’ve ever produced,” explained Tony Wearing, Managing Director of Toyota Canada Inc. “And with this, the third-generation RAV4, we intend to redefine the segment we created. By placing increased emphasis on performance, coupled with Toyota’s new Vibrant Clarity design philosophy, the new RAV4 is an agile urban commuter that’s equally at home in off-road situations.”
The all-new RAV4 will also soon be built for North America at Toyota’s newest Canadian assembly plant. Announced earlier this year, the plant – in Woodstock, Ontario – will employ 1,300 and make 100,000 vehicles per year when it starts assembling vehicles in 2008.
“Compact SUVs account for fully 45% of the SUV sales in Canada, so it is fitting that the RAV4, a segment leader, will be built in Canada when our Woodstock plant enters production,” added Wearing.
Compared to previous generations, the new RAV4 is more spacious and comfortable, and comes equipped with more standard and optional features and power and handling systems that deliver higher performance. Toyota will offer the 2006 RAV4 in two 4-cylinder versions and four V6 versions, including a sport package. Toyota designers and engineers have incorporated significant advances in performance; handling and safety; and comfort, convenience and versatility. Highlights include:
Performance:
· Choice of an updated 2.4-litre inline 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 166 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 165 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
· Choice of an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine with dual VVT-i, developing a class-leading 269 hp @ 6,200 rpm plus 246 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
· All new drivetrain, chassis, electric power steering and suspension combine to deliver best-in-segment performance.
Handling and Safety:
· Electronically-controlled Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive (4WD) system for excellent traction and fuel efficiency.
· Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and Traction Control System (TRAC).
· Anti-lock braking (ABS) system with Electric Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist.
· Hill-start Assist and Downhill Assist Control standard on V6 models.
· Improved Cruise Control.
· An optional seven-airbag system that includes dual-stage SRS driver and passenger airbags and driver's knee airbag.
Comfort, convenience and versatility:
· Longer and wider body, with a longer wheelbase.
· Modular interior with flexible seating and more cargo space – including a second row seat that folds flat, and an optional third row seat that folds into the cargo floor.
· Clean lines and aerodynamic styling, resulting in an impressive drag co-efficient contributing to excellent fuel consumption, quiet high-speed running and enhanced stability.
· Redefined comfort levels in a compact SUV, including standard first-in-class tilt/telescopic steering wheel, illuminated cup holders and dual glove box, plus optional footwell lighting, and first-in-class independent driver/passenger side air conditioning with pollen filter.
· Audio system with MP3 capability and convenient mini-jack for iPods and MP3 players.
“The Toyota RAV4 is already a favourite with drivers looking for the versatility and urban savvy of a compact SUV,” Wearing pointed out. “With this new model, the perfect companion to our recently redesigned Toyota Tacoma compact pick-up, we will once more be providing ample proof to Canadians that Toyota builds trucks that outperform in every situation, whether it’s negotiating rough terrain or navigating city streets and urban alleys. As we have demonstrated around the world for decades, Toyota Trucks ‘Never Quit’.”
The 2006 RAV4 goes on sale in Canada in December. Pricing for the all-new RAV4 will start at $28,700 with the base 4-cylinder, while the Limited 4-cylinder model will feature a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $32,595. The base V6 model will have an MSRP of $31,200, with the Sport version priced at $32,990. The Limited grade starts at $36,370, while the Limited B package is priced at $38,670.
# # #
2006 TOYOTA RAV4 – PRODUCT DETAIL
TWO MODELS, SEVERAL TRIM LEVELS
Toyota will offer two models of the new RAV4, with several trim levels:
· The 4-cylinder RAV4 is offered with an all-new 4-speed automatic transmission and is available in base and Limited grades.
· The V6 RAV4 is offered with an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission and is available in base, Sport and Limited grades.
Regardless of engine or trim level, all models of the new RAV4 are more spacious and comfortable than previous versions thanks to a longer wheelbase, and come equipped with more standard and optional features, and power and handling systems that deliver higher performance.
The well-equipped base grade includes features such as Electronically-controlled Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive; Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control; AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with mini-jack; dual stage driver and passenger airbags; power windows and door locks; keyless entry; illuminated entry; Optitron gauges; dual glove box; cruise control; air conditioning with rear seat heater ducts; 60/40 folding rear seat; tonneau cover and cargo net; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; silver accented interior trim; dual power remote heated side mirrors; roof rack; 17” styled steel wheels; towing hitch on the V6; and more.
The Limited grade includes all the features in the base grade, but adds a number of performance, style, comfort and convenience upgrades, including: audio system with in-dash 6-CD changer and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel; 17” aluminum alloy wheels; automatic climate control with dual zone control and pollen air filter; power driver’s seat; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; illuminated cupholders; footwell lamps; power moonroof; fog lamps; colour-keyed door handles; chrome grille; large capacity storage box under rear deck; moulded spare tire cover; and on the V6 model, third row seating.
The B package on the Limited V6 model does not include the third row seating, but adds a premium JBL audio system with 9 speakers; front seat side mounted, roll-sensing side curtain shield and driver’s knee airbags; leather seat surfaces; simulated leather door trim; heated front seats; colour-keyed fender flares; and rear seat remote release in cargo area.
The Sport grade, available exclusively to the RAV4 V6, also includes: 18” aluminum alloy wheels; colour-keyed fender flares; and unique black headlamp surround.
PERFORMANCE STARTS WITH ENGINES
The key to performance is the engine: it’s at the heart of every drive system. For the new RAV4, Toyota engineers developed two engines.
The 2006 RAV4 comes standard equipped with an upgraded 16-valve, dual overhead cam 2.4-litre inline 4-cylinder that produces 166 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 165 lb-ft torque @ 4,000 rpm. The RAV4 is also available with an all-new 24-valve, dual overhead cam 3.5-litre V6 that produces a class-leading horsepower rating of 269 hp @ 6,200 rpm and 246 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm.
Both engines feature Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology and aluminum cylinder blocks and heads to maximize power while delivering top-level SUV fuel economy. Introduced for the first time on RAV4 for the V6 model is dual VVT-i. This technology seamlessly advances or retards both intake and exhaust cams simultaneously, maximizing valve overlap which results in super engine performance and improved fuel efficiency.
Engine technology, coupled to a state-of-the-art Toyota exhaust system, ensures all 2006 RAV4s comply with ULEV-II emissions and fuel efficiency standards. The 4-cylinder RAV4 has impressive fuel consumption ratings for a compact SUV – 10.1 litres/100 km in the city and 7.7 on the highway. The RAV4 V6 consumes 11.1 litres/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway.
ALL NEW TRANSMISSIONS
An all-new compact SUV deserves an all-new transmission. For the RAV4, Toyota has created not one, but two transmissions. The Super-intelligent Electronically Controlled Transaxle (“Super ECT”) automatic transmissions are available in a four-speed configuration for the 4-cylinder model and a five-speed configuration for the V6 model.
Both are highly responsive transmissions that deliver top-level compact design, smooth shifting feel, and enhanced fuel economy, while the five-speed further boosts acceleration and fuel economy. Both also feature uphill/downhill shift control to reduce the frequency of gear shifting while travelling uphill and the need for braking going downhill.
An improved cruise control system is standard on all models, and applies a greater braking force for quicker deceleration.
4-WHEEL DRIVE
All RAV4s feature Toyota’s Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive technology, which enhances stability and fuel efficiency by optimizing the distribution of drive force to the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving conditions, while delivering the benefits of full-time 4-wheel drive whenever it’s needed.
The electronically-controlled coupling replaces the viscous coupling found in the previous RAV4, providing superior control over the distribution of power to the front and rear differentials, and enabling the RAV4 to switch continuously between front and 4-wheel drive mode. When in Auto mode, torque distribution to the rear wheels is decreased during normal driving conditions and low speed tight cornering situations. A manual locking switch disengages the Auto mode to allow a maximum torque split of 55/45 between the front and rear wheels. The system reverts to Auto mode when vehicle speed reaches 40 km/h, or when the brakes are engaged.
SUSPENSION, HANDLING, AND OTHER FACTORS THAT MAKE RAV4 FUN TO DRIVE
Compared to previous generations of RAV4, the 2006 model features quicker handling response and a greatly reduced the roll angle, making the new RAV4 more fun to drive and contributing to its sporty feel. For the outdoor adventurers, the 4-cylinder version has a towing capacity of 680 kg (1,500 lbs), while that for the V6 is 1587 kg (3,500 lbs). All V6 models are equipped with a towing hitch.
RAV4 also features improvements to its suspension, handling, steering and drivetrain. These include many all-new components and systems to maximize sporty performance, driving stability, and riding comfort.
Suspension
At the rear, Toyota has custom-designed a newly developed trailing type double wishbone suspension, while the front suspension includes MacPherson struts that have been completely redesigned – from the lower arm to the coil springs and shock absorbers.
Steering
The steering gear ratio and electrical power steering control have been optimized to match the new front suspension geometry to obtain a comfortable steering feel. That comfort extends to an all-new steering wheel mounted on a telescoping/tilting column, while a new column-type electric power steering system delivers excellent steering feel and enhanced fuel economy in an environmentally-friendly system that needs no power steering fluid.
Vehicle Dynamics
All RAV4s feature Toyota’s advanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and Traction Control (TRAC). The enhanced VSC system interfaces with a new Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system, allowing VSC to better anticipate a vehicle loss of control in almost any direction, and coordinating this with driver operation and vehicle behaviour.
V6-equipped RAV4s also come with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) automatically increases stability when the vehicle is starting on an incline. When the RAV4 is in any forward gear, HAC briefly applies the brakes to reduce the backward speed of the vehicle. This controls and slows backward roll long enough for the driver to switch from the brake pedal to the throttle. As soon as the throttle is depressed, HAC disengages and TRAC engages.
Downhill Assist Control (DAC) uses brake intervention to improve directional control while driving or reversing down a steep or slippery incline. With the transmission in lower gear, drivers engage DAC via a switch on the console. With no pedal input from the driver, DAC uses the brakes to control vehicle descent.
Wheels and Tires
Standard tires are all-season P225/65R17 radials mounted on steel wheels for the base models, and on 17” aluminum alloy wheels for the Limited models. The Sport model is equipped with larger all-season P235/55R18 tires on 18” aluminum alloy wheels.
SAFETY FEATURES COVER ALL THE BASES
The new RAV4 incorporates many safety features that set new benchmarks for compact SUVs.
The Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is enhanced with Electric Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist technologies.
Up front, the RAV4s halogen headlamps feature an enlarged high-beam illumination area for improved night-time visibility, while optional fog lamps provide additional light when it’s needed most. A wiper de-icer is standard on the RAV4 to aid front visibility. And to help drivers see what’s behind them, the new RAV4 features electrically adjustable heated side mirrors that are larger than on previous models.
Most impressively, all 2006 RAV4s feature dual-stage SRS driver and passenger airbags, while front seat side mounted, roll-sensing side curtain shield, and driver's knee airbags are available on the Limited V6 B package. In addition, the RAV4 is equipped with three-point lap and shoulder belts with adjustable shoulder belt anchors for all seating positions, and also features anchor points for child restraint seats.
VIBRANT CLARITY DESIGN – INSIDE AND OUT
The 2006 RAV4 infuses styling cues from the previous generation models, with the new influences of Toyota’s Vibrant Clarity design language. On the outside, Vibrant Clarity has reworked key RAV4 features such as the strong overfenders and trapezoidal grille, and combined them with a sturdy posture and sporty cabin silhouette to create a vehicle that is both modern and rugged. The conventional boxy shape of SUVs – particularly compact SUVs – has been softened into a more mono-form structure that exhibits style and quality.
The new RAV4’s clean lines and excellent aerodynamics are clearly demonstrated by its low drag co-efficient of 0.33, which is the best in the segment. The new RAV4 is 405 mm longer than its predecessor, with a corresponding 170 mm increase in wheelbase and a larger rear overhang. It’s also 80 mm wider. Despite this, the new RAV4’s turning circle has been reduced, making it easier to manoeuvre into parking spaces, alleys, and tight urban streets.
Inside, that extra length and width provide increased comfort, including more shoulder space, rear legroom and distance between passengers seated side-by-side. The overall cabin length has grown by 150 mm to 1885 mm, while the increased rear overhang and modified rear suspension result in increased luggage space.
Vibrant Clarity extends to the new RAV4’s versatility, with 60/40 split Toyota Easy Flat rear seats. Unique to the segment, the seats fold down into the rear floor space with the touch of a lever easily accessible from the rear tailgate, leaving a fully-flat luggage space – and without the need to remove any seat cushions or headrests. For models without third row seating, a new under-floor rear storage box in the cargo area provides a convenient area to secure items and keep them out of sight.
Finally, Vibrant Clarity is expressed in the attention to detail evident throughout the RAV4’s interior. Toyota’s designers paid close attention to eliminating separation lines, creating tight panel gaps and matching surface levels. The result is quality that is often only found in luxury vehicles.
Je pense beaucoup de monde ici seront déçu. Un nouveau RAV4 pas accessible à toutes les bourses. Aussi pas de version FWD comme aux States.
N'empêche que j'ai hâte de le voir en vrai. Version V6 économique. Version Sport pourrait être intéressant pour moi, reste à savoir si mes 6'3'' fitte dans ce véhicule.
Bonne lecture :lol:
TORONTO, Ontario) – The vehicle that started it all is about to do it again. The all-new, 2006 RAV4 – or Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive – is ready to reinvent Canada’s most popular class of sport utility vehicle, the compact SUV. And that’s only fitting, since Toyota invented the compact SUV segment when it introduced the original RAV4 in 1996.
“The RAV4 is one of the most significant vehicles we’ve ever produced,” explained Tony Wearing, Managing Director of Toyota Canada Inc. “And with this, the third-generation RAV4, we intend to redefine the segment we created. By placing increased emphasis on performance, coupled with Toyota’s new Vibrant Clarity design philosophy, the new RAV4 is an agile urban commuter that’s equally at home in off-road situations.”
The all-new RAV4 will also soon be built for North America at Toyota’s newest Canadian assembly plant. Announced earlier this year, the plant – in Woodstock, Ontario – will employ 1,300 and make 100,000 vehicles per year when it starts assembling vehicles in 2008.
“Compact SUVs account for fully 45% of the SUV sales in Canada, so it is fitting that the RAV4, a segment leader, will be built in Canada when our Woodstock plant enters production,” added Wearing.
Compared to previous generations, the new RAV4 is more spacious and comfortable, and comes equipped with more standard and optional features and power and handling systems that deliver higher performance. Toyota will offer the 2006 RAV4 in two 4-cylinder versions and four V6 versions, including a sport package. Toyota designers and engineers have incorporated significant advances in performance; handling and safety; and comfort, convenience and versatility. Highlights include:
Performance:
· Choice of an updated 2.4-litre inline 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 166 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 165 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
· Choice of an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine with dual VVT-i, developing a class-leading 269 hp @ 6,200 rpm plus 246 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
· All new drivetrain, chassis, electric power steering and suspension combine to deliver best-in-segment performance.
Handling and Safety:
· Electronically-controlled Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive (4WD) system for excellent traction and fuel efficiency.
· Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and Traction Control System (TRAC).
· Anti-lock braking (ABS) system with Electric Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist.
· Hill-start Assist and Downhill Assist Control standard on V6 models.
· Improved Cruise Control.
· An optional seven-airbag system that includes dual-stage SRS driver and passenger airbags and driver's knee airbag.
Comfort, convenience and versatility:
· Longer and wider body, with a longer wheelbase.
· Modular interior with flexible seating and more cargo space – including a second row seat that folds flat, and an optional third row seat that folds into the cargo floor.
· Clean lines and aerodynamic styling, resulting in an impressive drag co-efficient contributing to excellent fuel consumption, quiet high-speed running and enhanced stability.
· Redefined comfort levels in a compact SUV, including standard first-in-class tilt/telescopic steering wheel, illuminated cup holders and dual glove box, plus optional footwell lighting, and first-in-class independent driver/passenger side air conditioning with pollen filter.
· Audio system with MP3 capability and convenient mini-jack for iPods and MP3 players.
“The Toyota RAV4 is already a favourite with drivers looking for the versatility and urban savvy of a compact SUV,” Wearing pointed out. “With this new model, the perfect companion to our recently redesigned Toyota Tacoma compact pick-up, we will once more be providing ample proof to Canadians that Toyota builds trucks that outperform in every situation, whether it’s negotiating rough terrain or navigating city streets and urban alleys. As we have demonstrated around the world for decades, Toyota Trucks ‘Never Quit’.”
The 2006 RAV4 goes on sale in Canada in December. Pricing for the all-new RAV4 will start at $28,700 with the base 4-cylinder, while the Limited 4-cylinder model will feature a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $32,595. The base V6 model will have an MSRP of $31,200, with the Sport version priced at $32,990. The Limited grade starts at $36,370, while the Limited B package is priced at $38,670.
# # #
2006 TOYOTA RAV4 – PRODUCT DETAIL
TWO MODELS, SEVERAL TRIM LEVELS
Toyota will offer two models of the new RAV4, with several trim levels:
· The 4-cylinder RAV4 is offered with an all-new 4-speed automatic transmission and is available in base and Limited grades.
· The V6 RAV4 is offered with an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission and is available in base, Sport and Limited grades.
Regardless of engine or trim level, all models of the new RAV4 are more spacious and comfortable than previous versions thanks to a longer wheelbase, and come equipped with more standard and optional features, and power and handling systems that deliver higher performance.
The well-equipped base grade includes features such as Electronically-controlled Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive; Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control; AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with mini-jack; dual stage driver and passenger airbags; power windows and door locks; keyless entry; illuminated entry; Optitron gauges; dual glove box; cruise control; air conditioning with rear seat heater ducts; 60/40 folding rear seat; tonneau cover and cargo net; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; silver accented interior trim; dual power remote heated side mirrors; roof rack; 17” styled steel wheels; towing hitch on the V6; and more.
The Limited grade includes all the features in the base grade, but adds a number of performance, style, comfort and convenience upgrades, including: audio system with in-dash 6-CD changer and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel; 17” aluminum alloy wheels; automatic climate control with dual zone control and pollen air filter; power driver’s seat; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; illuminated cupholders; footwell lamps; power moonroof; fog lamps; colour-keyed door handles; chrome grille; large capacity storage box under rear deck; moulded spare tire cover; and on the V6 model, third row seating.
The B package on the Limited V6 model does not include the third row seating, but adds a premium JBL audio system with 9 speakers; front seat side mounted, roll-sensing side curtain shield and driver’s knee airbags; leather seat surfaces; simulated leather door trim; heated front seats; colour-keyed fender flares; and rear seat remote release in cargo area.
The Sport grade, available exclusively to the RAV4 V6, also includes: 18” aluminum alloy wheels; colour-keyed fender flares; and unique black headlamp surround.
PERFORMANCE STARTS WITH ENGINES
The key to performance is the engine: it’s at the heart of every drive system. For the new RAV4, Toyota engineers developed two engines.
The 2006 RAV4 comes standard equipped with an upgraded 16-valve, dual overhead cam 2.4-litre inline 4-cylinder that produces 166 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 165 lb-ft torque @ 4,000 rpm. The RAV4 is also available with an all-new 24-valve, dual overhead cam 3.5-litre V6 that produces a class-leading horsepower rating of 269 hp @ 6,200 rpm and 246 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm.
Both engines feature Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology and aluminum cylinder blocks and heads to maximize power while delivering top-level SUV fuel economy. Introduced for the first time on RAV4 for the V6 model is dual VVT-i. This technology seamlessly advances or retards both intake and exhaust cams simultaneously, maximizing valve overlap which results in super engine performance and improved fuel efficiency.
Engine technology, coupled to a state-of-the-art Toyota exhaust system, ensures all 2006 RAV4s comply with ULEV-II emissions and fuel efficiency standards. The 4-cylinder RAV4 has impressive fuel consumption ratings for a compact SUV – 10.1 litres/100 km in the city and 7.7 on the highway. The RAV4 V6 consumes 11.1 litres/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway.
ALL NEW TRANSMISSIONS
An all-new compact SUV deserves an all-new transmission. For the RAV4, Toyota has created not one, but two transmissions. The Super-intelligent Electronically Controlled Transaxle (“Super ECT”) automatic transmissions are available in a four-speed configuration for the 4-cylinder model and a five-speed configuration for the V6 model.
Both are highly responsive transmissions that deliver top-level compact design, smooth shifting feel, and enhanced fuel economy, while the five-speed further boosts acceleration and fuel economy. Both also feature uphill/downhill shift control to reduce the frequency of gear shifting while travelling uphill and the need for braking going downhill.
An improved cruise control system is standard on all models, and applies a greater braking force for quicker deceleration.
4-WHEEL DRIVE
All RAV4s feature Toyota’s Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive technology, which enhances stability and fuel efficiency by optimizing the distribution of drive force to the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving conditions, while delivering the benefits of full-time 4-wheel drive whenever it’s needed.
The electronically-controlled coupling replaces the viscous coupling found in the previous RAV4, providing superior control over the distribution of power to the front and rear differentials, and enabling the RAV4 to switch continuously between front and 4-wheel drive mode. When in Auto mode, torque distribution to the rear wheels is decreased during normal driving conditions and low speed tight cornering situations. A manual locking switch disengages the Auto mode to allow a maximum torque split of 55/45 between the front and rear wheels. The system reverts to Auto mode when vehicle speed reaches 40 km/h, or when the brakes are engaged.
SUSPENSION, HANDLING, AND OTHER FACTORS THAT MAKE RAV4 FUN TO DRIVE
Compared to previous generations of RAV4, the 2006 model features quicker handling response and a greatly reduced the roll angle, making the new RAV4 more fun to drive and contributing to its sporty feel. For the outdoor adventurers, the 4-cylinder version has a towing capacity of 680 kg (1,500 lbs), while that for the V6 is 1587 kg (3,500 lbs). All V6 models are equipped with a towing hitch.
RAV4 also features improvements to its suspension, handling, steering and drivetrain. These include many all-new components and systems to maximize sporty performance, driving stability, and riding comfort.
Suspension
At the rear, Toyota has custom-designed a newly developed trailing type double wishbone suspension, while the front suspension includes MacPherson struts that have been completely redesigned – from the lower arm to the coil springs and shock absorbers.
Steering
The steering gear ratio and electrical power steering control have been optimized to match the new front suspension geometry to obtain a comfortable steering feel. That comfort extends to an all-new steering wheel mounted on a telescoping/tilting column, while a new column-type electric power steering system delivers excellent steering feel and enhanced fuel economy in an environmentally-friendly system that needs no power steering fluid.
Vehicle Dynamics
All RAV4s feature Toyota’s advanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and Traction Control (TRAC). The enhanced VSC system interfaces with a new Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system, allowing VSC to better anticipate a vehicle loss of control in almost any direction, and coordinating this with driver operation and vehicle behaviour.
V6-equipped RAV4s also come with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) automatically increases stability when the vehicle is starting on an incline. When the RAV4 is in any forward gear, HAC briefly applies the brakes to reduce the backward speed of the vehicle. This controls and slows backward roll long enough for the driver to switch from the brake pedal to the throttle. As soon as the throttle is depressed, HAC disengages and TRAC engages.
Downhill Assist Control (DAC) uses brake intervention to improve directional control while driving or reversing down a steep or slippery incline. With the transmission in lower gear, drivers engage DAC via a switch on the console. With no pedal input from the driver, DAC uses the brakes to control vehicle descent.
Wheels and Tires
Standard tires are all-season P225/65R17 radials mounted on steel wheels for the base models, and on 17” aluminum alloy wheels for the Limited models. The Sport model is equipped with larger all-season P235/55R18 tires on 18” aluminum alloy wheels.
SAFETY FEATURES COVER ALL THE BASES
The new RAV4 incorporates many safety features that set new benchmarks for compact SUVs.
The Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is enhanced with Electric Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist technologies.
Up front, the RAV4s halogen headlamps feature an enlarged high-beam illumination area for improved night-time visibility, while optional fog lamps provide additional light when it’s needed most. A wiper de-icer is standard on the RAV4 to aid front visibility. And to help drivers see what’s behind them, the new RAV4 features electrically adjustable heated side mirrors that are larger than on previous models.
Most impressively, all 2006 RAV4s feature dual-stage SRS driver and passenger airbags, while front seat side mounted, roll-sensing side curtain shield, and driver's knee airbags are available on the Limited V6 B package. In addition, the RAV4 is equipped with three-point lap and shoulder belts with adjustable shoulder belt anchors for all seating positions, and also features anchor points for child restraint seats.
VIBRANT CLARITY DESIGN – INSIDE AND OUT
The 2006 RAV4 infuses styling cues from the previous generation models, with the new influences of Toyota’s Vibrant Clarity design language. On the outside, Vibrant Clarity has reworked key RAV4 features such as the strong overfenders and trapezoidal grille, and combined them with a sturdy posture and sporty cabin silhouette to create a vehicle that is both modern and rugged. The conventional boxy shape of SUVs – particularly compact SUVs – has been softened into a more mono-form structure that exhibits style and quality.
The new RAV4’s clean lines and excellent aerodynamics are clearly demonstrated by its low drag co-efficient of 0.33, which is the best in the segment. The new RAV4 is 405 mm longer than its predecessor, with a corresponding 170 mm increase in wheelbase and a larger rear overhang. It’s also 80 mm wider. Despite this, the new RAV4’s turning circle has been reduced, making it easier to manoeuvre into parking spaces, alleys, and tight urban streets.
Inside, that extra length and width provide increased comfort, including more shoulder space, rear legroom and distance between passengers seated side-by-side. The overall cabin length has grown by 150 mm to 1885 mm, while the increased rear overhang and modified rear suspension result in increased luggage space.
Vibrant Clarity extends to the new RAV4’s versatility, with 60/40 split Toyota Easy Flat rear seats. Unique to the segment, the seats fold down into the rear floor space with the touch of a lever easily accessible from the rear tailgate, leaving a fully-flat luggage space – and without the need to remove any seat cushions or headrests. For models without third row seating, a new under-floor rear storage box in the cargo area provides a convenient area to secure items and keep them out of sight.
Finally, Vibrant Clarity is expressed in the attention to detail evident throughout the RAV4’s interior. Toyota’s designers paid close attention to eliminating separation lines, creating tight panel gaps and matching surface levels. The result is quality that is often only found in luxury vehicles.