2013 Toyota RAV4 Trades V6, Third Row for Attractive Styling, Sport Mode
Sporting a bold new look and even a “sport mode”, with the 2013 RAV4 Toyota is looking to win over customers with a little excitement rather than slog it out in the fuel economy war.
That’s not to say fuel economy isn’t a big part of the 2013 RAV4, with a new six-speed automatic replacing the old four speed unit. The result is improved fuel economy up from 22/28 mpg to a new 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway rating with a 22/29 rating for AWD models. Still, those numbers are not class-leading.
Power continues to come from a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder though output is actually down three ponies to 176 hp, while torque stays even at 172 lb-ft. As for the more fuel-thirsty V6, it’s been dropped entirely.
Of note, AWD models get three drive modes: Auto, Lock and Sport. In auto mode power is sent to the front wheels, with the rears being given torque when slip is detected. Lock mode can be engaged at speeds below 25 mph and engages a full-time AWD system, with up to 50 percent of the power headed to the rear wheels. Above 25 mph the system reverts to Auto mode. And finally, there’s a Sport mode where up to 50 percent of the power can be sent to the rear wheels, while other car characteristics are heightened, including faster shifts as well as more immediate throttle and steering response. Front drive models also get a sport mode with similar, steering, transmission and throttle changes. In addition, sport mode will even “blip” the throttle on down shifts.
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While full exterior dimensions have yet to be released, the new RAV4 has dropped its available third row, while cargo room has gone up slightly to 38.4 cu-ft behind the 60/40 split (and reclining) 2nd row seats, while total cargo room is rated higher again at 73.4 cu-ft – which Toyota claims is best-in-class.
Access to the trunk area now comes via a roof-hinged liftgate, not a side-swinger, with a spare tire located under the cargo floor. A power rear liftgate is also available.
All RAV4 models will come equipped with steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth, and a 6.1-inch display audio screen with a back-up camera, plus 8 airbags. Optional extras include a Blind Spot Minor that includes a Rear Cross Traffic Alert feature to alert the driver if another vehicle is approaching from the sides, when traveling at speeds below 15 mph.
Available in LE, XLE, and Limited trim levels, the 2013 RAV4 will go on sale early in 2013 with pricing to be announced closer to that date.
GALLERY: 2013 Toyota RAV4
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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Why on Earth would Toyota drop the V6?? The fuel economy argument doesn't hold water. I own a 2007 AWD V6 and it's gas mileage is nearly identical to the 4. One of the main selling points for me was the optional V6. The V6 has great power and it's super smooth. The extra power is fantastic, especially when passing or when loaded down. Also, the V6-equipped RAV4's have a smoother ride over the 4's due to the additional weight. I've driven both and there is a noticeable difference. Dropping the V6 is a bad move. Also disappointing is moving the spare tire to under the cargo floor. On the 2007-2012 models there is a large, underfloor storage compartment in the back. That area will surely now be consumed by the spare tire in the new model. So despite what Toyota claims, the overall cargo area will be less in the new model. As for the new styling.....I don't mind the rear, as it sorta mimics the rear of the Highlander. The front however looks and feels forced. If I were in the market for a new vehicle of this type, I'd run out and grab up a 2012 V6 before they're gone.
Dropping the V6 is a mistake, this car is underpowered with just the four, especially with more a family and luggage. My wife has an 08' sport with the six, she was 100% going to go with another Rav, now notso much.