By Larry Lark, Herald Special Sections Writer
No one does hybrid better than Toyota.
Toyota has been the gas-electric sales leader in the U.S. since 2000 when it introduced Prius. With the launching of the 2016 RAV 4 Hybrid SUV, Toyota now has eight hybrid offerings under its nameplate.
RAV 4 was our vehicle of choice for a recent golf outing to the Kitsap Peninsula where we visited McCormick Woods, Gold Mountain and Port Ludlow golf courses. It seats up to five adults, with a cargo hold wide enough to accommodate full-size golf bags, overnight bags and more.
With updated exterior styling and interior appointments, RAV 4 proved to be versatile, reliable, capable and gas-friendly, averaging just short of 34 miles per gallon in a combination of city and highway driving during my week-long test.
My tester was the Limited AWD model, but the hybrid is available in XLE as well. Gas-powered models include LE, XLE, Limited and SE.
Both hybrids are equipped with an electronic on-demand all-wheel-drive system with intelligence (AWD-i). Mine came with 18-inch alloy wheels, two-tone SofTex interior seating, and an in-your-face Electric Storm Blue coat of paint.
And, if you’re hybrid gun-shy because you think it may be underpowered or sluggish – never fear. The hybrid actually provides more horsepower (194) and acceleration than conventional gas-powered RAV 4s.
The hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine and permanent magnet electric motor that supply power to the front wheels. The rear wheels are powered by a 67-horsepower electric motor that has no mechanical connection to the front wheels.
It goes 0-to-60 in 8.1 seconds, delivers all-wheel drive versatility, corners with confidence and provides a comfortable ride, complete with lumbar support for tired, torque-wrenched, backs.
For the price, RAV 4 is loaded with safety features. Stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution are just the start. Toyota slathers on a multi-feature, advanced safety package anchored by an automated, pre-collision braking system.
The complete bundle also includes forward-collision warning, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, pedestrian pre-collision and dynamic radar cruise control.
RAV4 also offers a new bird’s-eye view monitor. This Toyota-first technology utilizes four cameras that are mounted on the front, side mirrors and rear of the vehicle to give the driver a panoramic view of their surroundings. The system provides driver assistance when parallel parking, and when pulling in and out of parking spaces. The bird’s-eye view monitor system also has an industry-first feature called Perimeter Scan, that gives drivers a live rotating 360-degree view of what is around the vehicle, helping them see objects that could be in the way.
Per usual, creature comforts are always top-of-mind for me – especially on a road trip, RAV 4 does not disappoint. Highlights include navigation with backup camera, power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, three 12V power outlets, USB port and sound system with AM/FM/XM/CD options.
2016 RAV 4 HYBRID SUV
Base Price: $33,610
As Tested: $36,231
Base price includes destination charged. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.
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