Latest news with #Wildlander
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
What to expect from South Africa-bound new Toyota RAV4
The outgoing XA50 generation, which became the world best-selling vehicle in 2024, will end its seven-year production run in South Africa next year. Named the world's best selling vehicle of 2024 with global sales, including those of its Chinese sibling, the Wildlander, of 1 187 000 units, the current fifth generation Toyota RAV4 will officially bow-out next year in South Africa after what will be seven years. On-sale, globally, since 2018, the internally named XA50 will make way for the XA60 at an undisclosed time in 2026, with the exact powertrain and model line-up still to be revealed. The first generation RAV4 to be powered solely by hybrid powertrains, XA60 rides on a heavily revised of its predecessor's TNGA-K platform with not only uprated suspension joints, but also upgraded frame mounts and, in the case of the new off-road focused variant, 13 mm more ground clearance. Said to be more practical than the XA50, the XA60's interior has also been dramatically to include the same steering wheel as the North American Tacoma bakkie, a centre console seemingly derived from the Land Cruiser Prado and a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Based on the US-variant, the RAV4 also gains a new freestanding infotainment system in two sizes; 10.5-inches and 12.9-inches, both equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In terms of specification, notable items, which will vary depending on the eventual trim level, comprise a Head-Up Display, heated front seats, a nine-speaker JBL sound system and the first-time inclusion of Toyota'a Safety Sense array of safety and driver assistance systems. As mentioned, the RAV4's biggest difference from previous generations involves the solitary availability of hybrid powertrains as Toyota has opted to drop all 'conventional' combustion engine options. Modelled around the stalwart 2.5-litre petrol engine, outputs, again based on those of the Stateside model, amount to 166 kW or 174 kW with the inclusion of a second electric motor on E-Four all-wheel-drive models. At the range's summit, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines the same petrol engine with a 22.7-kWh battery pack powering two electric motors. The result is a combined system output of 235 kW, more than not only the outgoing RAV4 PHEV, but also than all of Toyota's current GR models excluding the GR Supra. What's more, the PHEV will the sole option for the new GR Sport, which finally becomes an export variant having previously be marketed solely in Europe and Japan. Reported to have a starting price tag of $35 000 in the States, which amount to R when directly converted and without taxes, the RAV4's market arrival, as mentioned, will take place next year at a still undisclosed time. As a reminder, the current line-up spans five models priced from R719 800 for the entry-level all-wheel-drive 2.0 GX-R to R858 500 for the flagship Hybrid VX E-Four. Thus, expect a considerable premium to be applicable once sales of the XA60 start next year. NOW READ: Now 'replaced' Toyota named world's best selling car of 2024
ArabGT
27-01-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
Everything We Know About the 2026 Toyota RAV4 and Its Sixth Generation
This report will present everything currently known about the highly anticipated 2026 Toyota RAV4, which will mark the debut of its sixth generation in the crossover SUV lineup. The upcoming RAV4 is expected to retain its existing platform. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants will return with improved power and efficiency. The interior will see enhancements with premium materials and a larger infotainment display. Insights into the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Toyota's RAV4 continues its reign as a top-selling model, securing its position as the best-selling vehicle in America in 2024—a rare feat for a car that isn't a truck. Globally, the RAV4 has contributed significantly to Toyota's success, helping it maintain its title as the world's best-selling automaker for the fifth consecutive year in 2024. As Toyota transitions from the fifth to the sixth generation of the RAV4, it faces a strategic challenge. The timing of this launch is critical, given the increasing competition from modern Chinese automakers offering stylish designs, advanced features, and competitive pricing. Delaying the new generation's arrival could be risky, as rivals are rapidly catching up. While the next RAV4 is set to replace the current generation, don't expect a complete overhaul. The changes will likely be evolutionary rather than revolutionary, maintaining the qualities that have made the RAV4 a household name. When the fifth-generation RAV4 debuted at the 2018 New York Auto Show, its bold and aggressive styling broke away from the softer designs of its predecessors. Even now, its design feels contemporary. For the sixth-generation 2026 RAV4, updates are anticipated to include subtle aerodynamic refinements and a refreshed look while preserving its recognizable aesthetic. Expected Updates to the Exterior Design The front fascia will likely incorporate Toyota's latest design elements, similar to those seen on the 2025 Toyota Prius and the 2025 Toyota Camry. Features may include wraparound daytime running lights with hammer-like interior details and a honeycomb-patterned grille. Digital Renderings and Leaked Prototypes Digital renderings give a glimpse of what the 2026 RAV4 might look like. Preliminary sketches, based on prototype sightings in Japan, suggest a squarer overall design with contrasting accents. Leaked Images and Potential Variations A leaked image recently surfaced during a media presentation in China, reportedly showcasing the successor to the Toyota Wildlander—a China-exclusive RAV4 variant developed in collaboration with FAW Group and sold through GAC. The Wildlander currently features unique front and rear designs compared to the global RAV4. It remains uncertain whether the next-generation RAV4 and Wildlander will retain distinct styling or merge into a unified global design.
