Some comments about the Hybrid system: - The EV mode is only useful for moving the car a short distance without running the combustion engine, or to delay it to avoid waking up someone sleeping in the house for example. It is not intended for use during daily driving - The combustion engine will only be run when the power is needed, or when it is cold, or when the vehicle is over a certain speed. Due to the clutchless design of the transmission, the RPMs of the motor generator which is paired with the combustion engine will be too high if the speed is too high without the combustion engine running. For the gen 3 Prius system, that speed is approximately 75 km/h, so if you are slower than that and lift off the power, and the engine is warm and the battery is not low, the engine will stop. The speed limit of the EV mode does not matter here at all. - Not just turbos are eliminated with this design, there are also no clutches, no torque converters (Drehmomentwandler), no gears being engaged and disengaged, no hydraulics. Very few parts can wear or break, and it is therefore reliable, durable and efficient, and the only cars that are mechanically simpler are pure electric drivetrains. - The goal for the system is not to be able to go farthest/fastest on battery power alone, it is to use the least amount of fuel. Therefore the car will use the combustion engine when accelerating rather than spend all the battery, so that it can use the battery later to sustain speed with the engine shut down. The 4WD version weighs 100 kgs more than a diesel Tiguan, but I am pretty sure it has lower emissions under any conditions anyway. Also: - The 4WD version is helpful for everyone who will use the car in slippery conditions, not just when pulling a trailer. Like the 225xe for example, the electric-only rear drive eliminates the need for the longitudinal driveshaft. - The Hybrid version rear seats are clumsy because the hybrid battery is stowed under them, but this gives a low floor in the cargo space, like you noticed. The conventional version has much better seats that collapse down into the floor.
This applies to all hybrids which use a planetary gearset and an extra motor-generator instead of a mechanical transmission. Toyota is the biggest user of this solution, but, Ford, GM and Nissan have also used them. The Mondeo Hybrid, for example. Others use a more straightforward solution with a traditional transmission and one motor-generator added. Like Honda and BMW.
Not only do I have the Rav4 2016,but by gosh it's a steady, spacious and economically sound. plus it holds its value. I would urgeanyonewhose looking to buy a car, just test drive the Rav4, don't take my word for it you'll see the difference. it's as beautifulas the outside.
I love VWs some of my favorite cars, but bought the RAV4 as my first new car. I like the look of VWs, and Diesel engines are great, nothing like it on the highway. However, I'm sick to death of paying more for diesel than gas here in the US, as the cost increase consumes all the extra value, and diesel is a pain to refuel as its not everywhere. This car is great in traffic, small towns, etc. One of my favorite features is the radar cruise. Is this standard on many cars? I get 39MPH with it on behind a semi truck, at reasonable speeds around 67MPG, so take the relatively low highway MPH estimates with a grain of salt. The RAV4 hybrid isn't the best looking or sportiest car, but absolute KING in terms of fuel economy, if like me, you can't yet justify an all electric and don't want to be limited in range. Also, I feel comfortable knowing the Toyota is really committed to hybrids. I used to think they were just extra weight and complexity, but the system really makes a lot of sense when you look into it. Yes, the full electric range is short, but it constantly charges and recharges. I can take the back roads in this car OR the highway, and the only cost is time. The state roads are often more direct, so people are driving farther just to go faster on the interstates highways. But I don't mind slowing down for the little burgs, on state highways, when I see the EV light come on, nor do I mind breaking because I know I'm recovering at least some of that energy. Finally, I love that the motor shuts off when I'm not using it, or that if I get caught in creeping traffic, I'm cruising in EV most of the way. As far as negatives go, the lack of Apple CarPlay is a real problem, but I just use my iPhone, it's far better than the Scout GPS. I don't even need a screen for navigation, I prefer just listening to Siri navigation, plus the extra (and complimentary) nav feedback from my Apple Watch.
I understand that Toyota has not Audi design or maybe driving dynamic experience, but Toyota at least doesn't lies it's own clients like VW Group did and possibly other german brands are doing with NOX emissions. Toyota cars are cheaper, much better equipped out of the box, and they have much greater reliability (Just see client reports) than any german brand . Toyota has 20 years of hybrid technology experience and a wide range of hybrid models. Toyota also has cheaper and better quality cars, because quality should be measured by client satisfaction and reliability, which ensures you not being an asshole, and that, it's quite the oposite most german brands do by treating their clients like shit. These brands are now a shadow of what they were in terms of technology and improvements, and just became arrogant bastards which their only interest is to rip you off. Any basic Toyota has 3 times more equipment than any Audi, as standard. Oh and sorry Thomas but I've seen you pronounce the word "conservative" many times in this review and it's a pity you don't repeat it as often in your Audis or Volkswagen cars reviews, were design is kept barely unchanged for 20 years. Thumbs up for Toyota for making reliable, more eco quality cars for real people! just hope people start opening their eyes and realize that german car manufacturers just want to rip them off, selling you expensive unreliable shit boxes that don't respect fuel emissions directives and that will slowly kill you.
just to add... very comfy seats for long journeys, very good sound insolation. This car is not for german autobans but for the rest of the world. awaiting winter snow to test the 4x4
Hi Tomas, I'd like to comment on usability of hybrid vehicles on the Autobahn. The Toyota HSD system also makes sense on the Highway, for it is powered by an 2.5L 2AR-FXE Atkinson-cycle engine (the X stands for Atkinson-cycle in Toyotas engine codes). This means that the gasoline engine runs at nearly around 39% thermal efficiency, unlike standard Otto-cycle gasoline engines. Consumption is lower in the city, as the engine doesn't run all of the time and the electric CVT prevents that the engine is run in low efficiency regions. On the Autobahn the consumption is higher, than in the city but still lower than other gasoline engines as seen in other SUVs. There is a general misconception in Germany about Hybrids. They are not meant to drive as much as possible in electric mode (like Plug-in-Hybrids), but they are meant to use gasoline in the most efficient way possible. The compact 1.6 kWh NiMH battery pack doesn't add much more weight, when compared to additional weight that turbocharging (intercooler+turbo+oilcooling+reinforced exhaust system) brings along. For example: according to japanese JC08 measuring standards, the VW Golf GTE offers a fuel efficiency of 23,8 km per Liter, whereas the Toyota Auris Hybrid offers a fuel efficiency of 30,4 km per Liter. So the 1.8L Atkinson engine gets 6,6 more Kilometers per liter of gasoline than the 1.4L turbocharged engine. German car manufacturers have recognized the idea behind Hybrid powertrains in 2009, which an patent by Daimler AG shows: www.patent-de.com/pdf/DE102008035451A1.pdf I hope this can help for a better understanding on the conceptional differences between full hybrids and plug-in-hybrids (which are oftenly cars with just standard gasoline engine, that have added an heavy battery to run some km on pure electric) :)
You're most welcome. The electric motor or battery doesn't heat up the engine, that's why in cold winter conditions the gasoline engine may run for some time to gain some temperature and generate heat for the aircon and catalythic converter to reach operation temperature. (Toyota gives priority to clean exhaust emissions before better mileage). In german hybrid forums it's called "Flammenwerfermodus" On a sidenote: Toyota uses an Exhaust Heat Recovery System (EHRS) on the Prius III, Aqua, Prius IV, Prius c, Prius +, SAI, Lexus HS 250 and RX 450h. This sytsem uses exhaust heat to warm up the engine coolant and shorten the time the engine has to run. energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/03/f8/deer11_barrieu.pdf www.futabasangyo.com/en/products/product/car/heat_collect/ I'm not aware, that this system would be also used in the RAV4 Hybrid though.
I still got mine and I'm very happy with it. I'm not happy with the infotainment system + speaker setup, but I only use Bluetooth anyway and changed the upper front speakers with JBL - much better! I'm driving mostly short routes about 10km and I'm at ~7L/100KM E10 fuel (Spritmonitor), which is very good. It needs around 5,8L/100Km E10 fuel on long routes + 2 passengers + luggage, which is excellent.
Great review as usual, me among others really appreciate the true in depth aspect, where you are able to see how everything operates - without so much editing and time lapsing etc. I don't know if anyone else sorted why it doesn't enter ev-mode in higher speeds, even when regaining energy. After some research I understood it's because of the design of the e-cvt. The gearbox is actually two electric motors and also the petrol engine. One of the electric motors drives the car, and the other generates electricity, from the petrol engine and also acts as a starter for it. That's why it starts so fast, since it's powered by the hybrid battery, and therefore is more powerful than a normal 12 volt one. Anyhow because of the gearbox design the petrol engine must spin above about 70-80 km/h I think to offset the electric motor's rpm, so it won't spin too fast and get ruined. But when petrol power isn't required for maintaining speed, on a autobahn downhill z.b. It spins but with its valves open, so it doesn't slow the car down - it just revs, no petrol is added, but with low resistance/ engine brake to save the electric motor from burning up and overreving. Hope it makes sense, otherwise we will keep the comments going on until it's sorted! :) Tschüss!
Hallo Thomas ich habe mir dein RUclips Video mehrmals angeschaut. Mittlerweile im Dezember 2017 habe ich mir einen RAV4 Hybrid in der Ausstattung Team-D gekauft . Wir Sind als Familie mittlerweile 2000 km mit diesem Auto herumgefahren, hauptsächlich in der Stadt und auf der Landstraße . Das Auto hat ungefähr die Abmessungen eines VW Touran. Es ist besonders komfortabel gefedert mit guten sitzen und Guter Geräuschdämmung. Auch der Kofferraum ist groß genug für uns vier. Der Hybridantrieb ist etwas Besonderes: er ist nicht wie beim Prius darauf ausgelegt den letzten Tropfen Benzin zu sparen. Sondern er ersetzt eher den Turbolader. Das Auto fühlt sich an wie ein kraftvoller Turbodiesel . Gleichzeitig bleibt der Spritverbrauch im erträglichen Rahmen bei etwa 6,5 Litern in der Stadt und auf der Landstraße. Auf der Autobahn sind es etwa 7,5 Liter bei 140 kmh. Das Auto ist auch sehr handlich beim Einparken, weil es einen eher kleinen Wendekreis hat und man hoch sitzt.
Thank you for this informative review. I have a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. It has 3.3 L V6 hybrid engine. It runs perfect 120K miles on it. Nothing wrong with it so far. Switching from gas engine to electric is automatically done. The electric engine gives 60 more HP to the gas engine, that helps when you want to pass and overtake slower drivers faster.
Really great review again Thomas - thank you once again for such detail. All the detail is really good for car enthusiasts! Also very good camera angle looking out forward through the windscreen, and showing us some of the instruments. Very good video editing. Thank you for demonstrating the Adaptive Cruise, Lane Assist and Side Assist too! Keep up the good work.
Thanks for one more nice review guys :) I really like Toyota cars not for it's looks or interior quality but for it's comfort suspension, high reliability and simplicity. If you want to buy a car that you can trust every time the best is Toyota. The only car brand (and a Lexus of course too) with what i didn't have any problems at all.
Thanks for that! Another really nice crossover :) so comfortable, silent and definitely have that "premium" feeling that you like to talk about in your reviews ;) It will be just perfect if you test all the Lexus line up in future. I pesonally really like the GS an CT.
one more extra comment: there are issues with ergonomy of the cockpit. In the car I drove, you could not see the swtches and indicators for the heated front seats. You had to bow down which is not safe
I think the EV mode is basically meant to be used in parking garaces or some other places you don't want to have exhaustion gases like moving slow on pedestrian street or near childrens playground
Thomas - nice outfit to match for this review. White pant for this white Rav 4. In fact, I just bought a Rav 4 SE for my niece a couple of week ago. I didn't get the front parking sonar for her. Two days ago, I took her brand new Rav 4 to my buddy's car wash. Guess what? I scraped the bumper when I pull into his cash wash garage. I can't believe it. It was a tight spot, if her car has the front parking sonar warning ⚠️ it could of avoid the damage. I went to one of my buddy's Autobody shop in Costa Mesa, Ca. It cost $600USD for the repair. Autobahn Autobody is one of the best in Orange County. His shop approved for Rolls Royce certified. 3 days to complete the repair job. I drove the Rav 4, it is easy to drive, a bit more sporty because of the tokico front stunts. Also, I helped my nephew to get a Rav 4 SE with the JBL sound TECHNO package.(bird eyes camera, frt parking sonar, gps and premier entune app). Thanks for the review. The beep warning sound can be louder, I can't found to be adj to a louder sound. So, if you turn the radio loud volume with the road noise or sun roof opened. One may not able to hear the beep alert sound. LED high lights is bright at night driving. Average about 31 MPG. It's a decent compact SUV for good comfort, cargo space. A/C cool down the cabin quiet fast. I wish Toyota would offer ventilated seats on this entry level SUV and Prius model. I chose the Rav 4 over Subaru Forester due to its reliability. My nephew trade-in his Subaru Outback with 120k miles for the Rav 4. Due to the reliability problems. Everything starting to break after 80k in his outback. Plus burning oil after 100k. 🦅🦅🇺🇸
Hello there. Another good review, pointing out the bad and the good. About the boot cover. As you said it has some extensions. They are so that you could cover (as this is a cover) the luggage. As you mentioned the rear seat backs can be tilted and that opens a pretty good gap, so those covers are a great way to hide the gap. That is why they are flexible and longer. For me a pretty good system. The beeping noise for the driver door. Well I really miss that i my new Seat. When i Stop the engine and the key is in the ignition i tend to forget it there because there is no audible or visual reminder that the key is there. Also the ignition is not illuminated and that is very helpful for the models with no keyless entry. You forgot to tell that the diesel is only 2WD, rather than the regular petrol and hybrid 4WD. For the markets I have seen in Europe there is no diesel 4WD version. I could be wrong as i think this is a miss for Toyota Europe. In USA in California Toyota are selling full electric RAV 4 versions as it is you could say is pretty much mandatory. I'm not sure why they are not importing those here in Europe. The EV network is expanding every month and in most western and northern countries is pretty good. Even a plugin solution will be better. As I understand the Prius will get a Plugin later this year, hope the other ones - Yaris, Auris and RAV4 will do too, as this is another miss by Toyota. Non All Auto windows is pretty dull for this type of vehicle. For that price and class, it is just not acceptable in Europe. In a hot summer day you will need a good 30 seconds to open and another 30 seconds to close all the windows. with all Auto it is done in 5. For me this is a safety hazard. May be in USA or somewhere else I do not know but in Europe - NO NO. The infotainment system - well not the best thing here. It's on par with the Mitsubishi, Kia and Hyundai but VW beats them all. The AC controls on the other hand are spot on. Big enough, well within reach when driving, you can manage them with your eyes closed. The automatic lever - What on earth are they thinking. The other hybrids have a small electronic, very recognisable toyota hybrid lever, Why put this old hardware looking thing there, when you could save space for cubbies or something. Even the suggested from you streight line design is better but not in a Toyota hybrid. This is a Toyota hybrid, it is meant to be sensible, comfortable, practical, visionary, It should have the small lever from the Prius - another miss for Toyota. I think that with a few small changes here and there that are not so expensive (or look not to be expensive) this car will be a class leader. Now it's just not. It's just not well thought for the European customer. Yes they have a good service network and the hybrid drive is well proven over the years but inner comfort just needs to step up.
Thomas: From my experience in Lexus hybrids, the "EV" dashboard symbol does not illuminate if the car is in normal mode and the gas engine shuts down. That dashboard symbol only illuminates if the "EV Mode" button is selected. Then, as you pointed out, if the car accelerates beyond the EV maximum speed, the light will go out when the gas engine starts.
But I thought that it can run with the electric motor AND the ICE at the same time? And sometimes ICE only? I presume that one can just monitor the tachometer to see when the ICE is on? Is there a gauge similar to the tach for the electric motor?
19:14 Thomas, the second electric motor is used to power rear wheels, it is an electric AWD system and the second motor is located in the rear as well. Other than this great review. Things I was looking for when choosing new car, were: space, awd, nat.asp. petrol, consumption, reliability and emission levels. No one on the market offers better package so far for this price that is for sure.
my point was that the big advantage of the 2nd electric motors, which makes it then AWD, is that the towing capacity is hugely improved. That's the biggest benefit, other than that, you pay 3.000 Euro extra for not really much benefit
considering that the Niro uses more often the electric engine I think i would rather go for that one at least i feels like the RAV4 changes more rapidly to the naturally espirated engine
Hi, Autogefühl. Interesting proposition. The new 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has overcame the (older) Lexus NX300h. The Toyota has better acceleration (8,3 secs to reach 60 mph, while the Lexus NX300h takes 9,3 secs), better scores at all the safety agencies (EuroNCAP, IIHS, NHTSA), more interior room, spare wheel (the Lexus NX lacks of it), superior towing capacity and better offroad habilities. And for $ 6.000 less, you'll have much more accesories or extras, like electric sunroof, 360º cameras, touch screen, lane departure assistant, blind spot detector...
For the City its great. And a specialy the rav4 with the big 2.5 Liter Engine is not that bad on motorways too. The smaller 1.8 Liter HSD in the Auris and Prius looked a bit underpowered on higher speeds for example the classic passing a car in front of you or on the motorway.
funny thing though about how little the electric motor was operating, is that in real world testing by Alex on Autos/youtube, it did extremely well for fuel economy, including vs the very different system in the Honda CR-V hybrid.
funny that u should mention the annoying beeping when opening doors, etc: in the recent yrs models of some japanese cars, the unlock & opening doors operations include SOOOOO many beeps, often 4 to six in a row, high pitch piercing, travels four houses away into my window when i'm sleeping & i'm not in the quietest city neighborhood here in the U.S. So i'm veeeery keen to buy my next car ONLY if the beeps r disable-able for security/doors, etc.
This is a very good review! Thank you Thomas. I bought a Hybrid RAV4 Limited last fall. I'm very satisfied with it. There are a few negatives that I should mention: the cargo space is limited by the intrusion of the battery, the automatic back door apparently has no obstacle detection so you must be careful not to park too closely to a wall or other obstacle and on closing it only stops when almost closed so be careful, also the driver side door handle seems cheap when opening the door on the driver side as you pointed out and finally the interactive touch pad is slow and not very sophisticated. It looks a bit like a Star Wars storm trooper in the front but you either like that or not -- its a matter of taste. The JBL sound system is anemic compared to the Bose system in my previous car but the fact that I can call on the phone by just talking to the car or ask where points of interest are such as "Where is the closest hospital?" is a huge bonus. There are so many positives that I just had to let you know about them. First of all the fuel economy is great and there is no range anxiety because of the hybrid gas engine. When you are stuck in stop and go traffic the electric mode takes over and you burn no fuel while idling or shuffling along with the traffic. Another bonus of the hybrid is that the brakes should require about half the maintenance of a normal vehicle because the regenerative braking system delays the use of the normal brakes most of the time. On the highway there is sufficient power to merge comfortably and to pass slower vehicles. The engine is a bit noisy at high revs but when cruising the RAV4 Limited is quiet and feels smooth and comfortable. I love the seats -- I just returned from a 1500 km trip and had no discomfort at all and felt good when I got out of the car. (Ah the advantages of being a few centimeters higher than in my old Mazda 6 station wagon.) When in Sport mode the steering is much tighter and the car feels much more agile both on the highway and on most secondary roads. The heated steering wheel is a nice addition in the car I have -- maybe its a Canada only feature. Finally, let me say that the confidence I have in Toyota reliability generally and their experience with developing hybrids makes me sure I will enjoy the RAV4 for a long time.
Been driving this as a daily last few weeks and the engine noise is incredibly annoying. It's very loud when accelerating. Ruins what would have been a great all rounder. This is my only complaint.
Love your reviews, amazed you get so few views. Keep it up, I'm sure it will grow. Ive spike you you before about the Octavia Vrs wagon. Bit over the last few weeks this has has jumped up my list, and your video ended up in my recommended vids 👍
Im wondering about Toyota at this point. The Toyota Touch 2 System doesnt offer any Smartphone App Connectivity any more. They stayed at Mirror Link 1.1. That is supported by old Android Phones like the Samsung Galaxy 3. I heard about that they do that cuz they have better control about the apps started. Toyota realy needs a better Smartphone Integration. The other Carbuilders have so much better Solutions mostly. I like they Hybrid Toyota cars cuz noone offers something like it. All try it but noone has something like it for the Price.
EuroMoto Who would Samesong copy? Will Google rip off car play for them, so that dim witted buyers could buy the also ran and limited copy to save a nickel? Lots of questions here!
To many companiens and developers waiting for the money to drop in. Like Samsung, Sony, Apple, etc.Actually they work better in cars than in phones because we excpect less off them. SO they can utalize the SnapDragon and CPU or GPU for a lower prize
Might be the case. The Avensis is built for the European market, which has different tastes and requirements than the US or Asia, whereas the RAV4 is a global car, like the Prius, which is not as adapted to the european markets.
I noticed you saying the electrical motor is not in use on the motorway/highway and the fuel comsuption is at 7 litres per 100 km. I've seen two reviews of this car prior to this one and both states after the test drive that the fuel consuption stated by the factory was correct. One of the tests were over 1000 km and still they did just over 5 litres per 100 km.
I drove the diesel equivalent of this very car and it seemed a very good combinaton - a great engine from BMW apparently. To answer some of your questions: the face-lift makes a big difference - it is finally a RAV4 you wanna look at, like the mark I in 1994:) the mark II was so-so, and mark III was very poor design. The modernised lights with LED lines improve a lot, both front and rear. As for the cover behind the seat it works when you push the back of the back seat forward. I've seen it on a Nissan b4. As for the choice of engines it depends mostly where you drive - hybrid is OK for the city and for longer distances it makes sense to buy a diesel. The EV mode is good for ULEV zones - we might have them in Europe soon.
I have read it in many places, so it's probably true. However, It won't be the same as e92, it's been years since. So it is up to you to decide if it is "the horror" you experienced. People get stuck with names and sizes and forget that the engeneers work all the time on new generations of engines.
mtumasz the e92 was a petrol engine btw. Constant coil failures , injector failures, Nox sensor failures. Its was a nightmare. Already ordered the diesel Rav4 but i am panicking now. Maybe I could change the order to a hybrid
Thanks Thomas. Great review. This RAV4 is an improvement style-wise. Side profile does need some more character- a bit too one-dimensional. Seats look comfy.
Hi Thomas, I recently took a trip to Poland, a nation plagued with diesels, and found that the claim Toyota makes there for it's hybrid systems is that they are cleaner to operate, cheaper to run and maintain, and more efficient than vehicles with diesel powertrains. In your digest of this Rav4, did you find that it is more efficient that its diesel and petrol competition?
Cool review. Thanks a lot Thomas! You told that you are not sure if a plug-in hybrid doesn't make more sense. But hey. You used at all 6.l/100km using an petrol SUV with around 200hp, without having to charge it. From my perspectiv it makes sense use a full hybrid like this one, even if you don't save so much/any thing on the highway. But as soon as you live the highway it looks different. Me for my self I don't want to put full in and have also to charge all the time.
Hi!, Great videos. I have one tip. If you are trying suv or other awd car. Test it off road as well. I believe everyone (including me) is interested to see how it's going off the road. Drive it untill they stuck in the mud. Good luck! Lukas
Sure, but we have no offroad area available. We can just do it when it is being offroad within an event with special offroad location, like this: ruclips.net/video/jj5m0lGbsFo/видео.html If we can drive it offroad, we do. But in most cases, there is just no possibility.
Thanks - another professional review and follow up to the first one on the Rav4 Hybrid. If you set cruise control speed, and come to a stop... will a simple lever touch regain set speed or must you reset the speed ( a fault Toyota/Lexus did to many of their cars in the US! ) How easily does the CVT match with engine RPM? Will you ever compare this RAV4 to it's sister version offered by Lexus? Hope to visit Germany one day since I'm getting used to your route on streets and motorway from all the reviews :-) The hybrid seems best of both worlds --- I don't have a garage and can't stretch a charging cord across sidewalk to my car space for a Tesla and I like the "free driving" you get from the hybrid plus the ability to take a ride even if battery is not charged --- there are so many Prius cars in US- dozens in every town. I'm wondering if the OEM tires are not the best choice and different tires might make a difference in the ride quality. The hybrid system will pay for itself in 2 years on average.. quicker as the fuel prices rise! NOTE: reviews might talk about the seating position with regard to the steering wheel position... too many cars do not have a centered steering stack- seems aimed towards drivers shoulder instead of body center
And indeed, the ACC is not good at all, it stops at 40 or 30 km/h so doesnt brake until zero. And if you want to set a new speed you have to put it off and on again - or go all the way in 5 km/h steps
I'm not a Toyota's fun :) RAV4 looks rather calm and stable, it has a kind of sad apparition but all in all it surely is a resonable. It's just missing something...
Thanks Thomas! I think Toyota did a good job here. The RAV4 looks quite good (the rear is a bit weird though). I also like the interior, it's quite different with that lower part sticking out a bit and dressed in (fake) leather. I don't understand why they stick to that old fashioned gear lever though, especially because they have a nice and special one in both the Prius and the Mirai. As for the driving, I guess it's great if you have a relaxed driving style and maybe make a sport of trying to figure out how to drive as economical as possible. I noticed that if you want to drive a little sportier, you get greeted by the good old CVT characteristic of a screaming engine. That puts me off, although you could say it's great for fuel consumption if you try to prevent it in the first place! :-)
I’m expecting a new redesign 5th generation RAV4 2019 or RAV4 2020 will be a bit sportier and more aggressive, more eco, bigger, nicer, safer, stronger, and higher than this 4th generation . The front of the vehicle shall be semi- AUDI Q8 2018, and the rear of the vehicle shall be semi- BMW X7 2018 .
I guess its not an electric A/C like in the Audi A3 e-Tron. Thats maybe the reason why the engine always keeps kicking in to keep the cooling or heating function alive.
How did you get it without the gas wasting roof rails? Is that standard in Germany? (ior is this a USA car?) for a hybrid you want BETTER aerodynamics and airflow over the roof. they added the roof rails which waste MPGs. is that a custom order? I want to get my wifes that way without roof rails.
Can someone confirm that the diesel variant of the Rav4 is made by BMW? The reason i am buying a Toyota is to run away from the horror of the 2.0 e92 Bmw 320 engine.
Dear Thomas, that's really nice review. You really show us many details as long the good and bad things about the rav4 hybrid, keep doing best reviews. Can you tell me is there any chance that you test same rav4 with petrol engine and manual gearbox? I would be very appreciated! Greetings from Croatia.
thanks Igor! Not really, not really making sense to test the very same vehicle just with another engine, we hardly do that as we would have to present every vehicle 4 times then =)
Interesting review again Thomas. Great work. You say you have covered all of the compact SUV class but you haven't tested the Subaru Forester XT. Please do as I am looking to buy a petrol SUV and would welcome your thoughts.
Great! Normally aspirated (XE) is too weak for me but turbo (XT) is much better. Still unsure about having CVT box and high fuel consumption. Drove Outlander PHEV and liked the electric drive like you but not convinced by the rest of the car.
Hey, the Tiguan is the better car in driving and interior feel/build quality as well as usability; however I prefer the toyota hybrid system over a Diesel. So overall I'd take the Tiguan petrol then as a compromise
Wow - I am amazed how cheap those interior mouldings look. The area around the EV mode switches looks like Airfix model plastic - also the boot/trunk has a lot of hard plastic panels rather than carpet which could make the interior noisy. Great in a Landrover, perhaps not in a passenger car. I know styling is subjective but I think looks weird and ungainly. With that and the apparently low rent interior plastics, it looks a disappointing car to me. I would be interested to see real world economy against a good turbo diesel and also the effect on reliability of the combustion engine kicking in from cold and potentially not warming up before switching off again. Usually that is one of the quickest ways to kill a combustion engine, but I am sure Toyota have fixed that (hopefully !). Good review Thomas, overall, I much prefer the Kia Niro.
Love the camera placement on the driver side window, watching this felt just like driving it (had a chance to drive my mother's RAV4 hybrid). Great review, really agree with all of your points (a little bit noisier than others, better for city only, ev mode switches too fast, etc)
Oh, that's a shame, hoped that it at least would work down to 30 km/h. On a manually shifted Volvo the ACC works down to 30 km/h, but on the automatic - with queue driving assistant - it works down to 0 km/h.
Hallo! Unsere Website für ausführliche Hintergrundinformationen machen wir auf Deutsch.Die Videos laufen über RUclips und erreichen ein internationales Publikum, sehr viele Zuschauer aus USA, Deutschland, Großbritannien, Japan, Russland und weitere aus über 100 Ländern der Welt. Darum sind die meisten unserer Videos auf Englisch. Die meisten deutschen Videozuschauer verstehen auch Englisch, aber fast alle anderen verstehen kein Deutsch. Insofern ist es nur logisch, die Videos auf Englisch anzubieten, was auch sehr gut ankommt.Wir würden uns freuen, wenn du auf Deutsch unsere Text-Berichterstattung verfolgst und auch hier unsere englischen Videos. Herzliche Grüße Thomas
Was this the cheapest trimlevel you could find ? When you are testing German cars it's always the highest trim level with a lot of extras. It seems you are paid by German car industry.
Please think before you write. If you followed the whole review you will hear that i was very satisfied with this trim level and also explicitly recommend it - and if you watch other of our reviews you hear me complaining about the manufacturers giving us the high-trim-level cars with animal skin seats. So please re-think your though carefully and also enjoy this episode: ruclips.net/video/VZ180HNvMlk/видео.html
The reviewers don't choose the trim level of the cars they review. Car companies have cars set aside for journalist to test, and THEY choose the higher trim levels to showcase their vehicles.
sure 3008 is really highly anticipated here, we ll try to do that asap. I think we can get first glimpse in Paris early September and driving late September, thats my estimation
Mate,, waiting time for this car is already over 9+ months because the factory cannot deal with so many orders, this will be a best seller, so yes chance for Toyota + this has proven to be reliable, not like Peugeot... (same underbody, same hybrid engine as Lexus NX)
I have been told in Juni that it would come first in March but could be later, talking about the Hybrid. World wide it is the best selling small SUV. At least last year it was.
the best SUV for this price level. Do not buy hybrid. petrol engines are great and fuel economy is excellent. boot capacity is much bigger than the hybrid version and 4x4 system different. also do not forget that hybrids are some 5000 euros more expensive..
I don't like RAV4 or Toyota cars in general. They are reliable, i must admit, but design or quality-wise they are still in 90's. People say that german cars are overrated, but compare build quality of this RAV4 and Tiguan. They are on different planets.
Completely disagree. My sister has the Tiguan and I have the new RAV4. The Toyota is more refined and more comfortable. The VW has a nicer soft touch dash but I rarely touch that part of the car. Whereas the RAV4 has soft leather where it counts- around the controls
Some comments about the Hybrid system:
- The EV mode is only useful for moving the car a short distance without running the combustion engine, or to delay it to avoid waking up someone sleeping in the house for example. It is not intended for use during daily driving
- The combustion engine will only be run when the power is needed, or when it is cold, or when the vehicle is over a certain speed. Due to the clutchless design of the transmission, the RPMs of the motor generator which is paired with the combustion engine will be too high if the speed is too high without the combustion engine running. For the gen 3 Prius system, that speed is approximately 75 km/h, so if you are slower than that and lift off the power, and the engine is warm and the battery is not low, the engine will stop. The speed limit of the EV mode does not matter here at all.
- Not just turbos are eliminated with this design, there are also no clutches, no torque converters (Drehmomentwandler), no gears being engaged and disengaged, no hydraulics. Very few parts can wear or break, and it is therefore reliable, durable and efficient, and the only cars that are mechanically simpler are pure electric drivetrains.
- The goal for the system is not to be able to go farthest/fastest on battery power alone, it is to use the least amount of fuel. Therefore the car will use the combustion engine when accelerating rather than spend all the battery, so that it can use the battery later to sustain speed with the engine shut down. The 4WD version weighs 100 kgs more than a diesel Tiguan, but I am pretty sure it has lower emissions under any conditions anyway.
Also:
- The 4WD version is helpful for everyone who will use the car in slippery conditions, not just when pulling a trailer. Like the 225xe for example, the electric-only rear drive eliminates the need for the longitudinal driveshaft.
- The Hybrid version rear seats are clumsy because the hybrid battery is stowed under them, but this gives a low floor in the cargo space, like you noticed. The conventional version has much better seats that collapse down into the floor.
nice addition!
thanks for the amazing comment. is this only for Rav, Toyota in generally or all Hybrid systems?
This applies to all hybrids which use a planetary gearset and an extra motor-generator instead of a mechanical transmission. Toyota is the biggest user of this solution, but, Ford, GM and Nissan have also used them. The Mondeo Hybrid, for example. Others use a more straightforward solution with a traditional transmission and one motor-generator added. Like Honda and BMW.
Not only do I have the Rav4 2016,but by gosh it's a steady, spacious and economically sound. plus it holds its value. I would urgeanyonewhose looking to buy a car, just test drive the Rav4, don't take my word for it you'll see the difference. it's as beautifulas the outside.
I love VWs some of my favorite cars, but bought the RAV4 as my first new car. I like the look of VWs, and Diesel engines are great, nothing like it on the highway. However, I'm sick to death of paying more for diesel than gas here in the US, as the cost increase consumes all the extra value, and diesel is a pain to refuel as its not everywhere. This car is great in traffic, small towns, etc. One of my favorite features is the radar cruise. Is this standard on many cars? I get 39MPH with it on behind a semi truck, at reasonable speeds around 67MPG, so take the relatively low highway MPH estimates with a grain of salt. The RAV4 hybrid isn't the best looking or sportiest car, but absolute KING in terms of fuel economy, if like me, you can't yet justify an all electric and don't want to be limited in range. Also, I feel comfortable knowing the Toyota is really committed to hybrids. I used to think they were just extra weight and complexity, but the system really makes a lot of sense when you look into it. Yes, the full electric range is short, but it constantly charges and recharges. I can take the back roads in this car OR the highway, and the only cost is time. The state roads are often more direct, so people are driving farther just to go faster on the interstates highways. But I don't mind slowing down for the little burgs, on state highways, when I see the EV light come on, nor do I mind breaking because I know I'm recovering at least some of that energy. Finally, I love that the motor shuts off when I'm not using it, or that if I get caught in creeping traffic, I'm cruising in EV most of the way. As far as negatives go, the lack of Apple CarPlay is a real problem, but I just use my iPhone, it's far better than the Scout GPS. I don't even need a screen for navigation, I prefer just listening to Siri navigation, plus the extra (and complimentary) nav feedback from my Apple Watch.
I understand that Toyota has not Audi design or maybe driving dynamic experience, but Toyota at least doesn't lies it's own clients like VW Group did and possibly other german brands are doing with NOX emissions. Toyota cars are cheaper, much better equipped out of the box, and they have much greater reliability (Just see client reports) than any german brand .
Toyota has 20 years of hybrid technology experience and a wide range of hybrid models.
Toyota also has cheaper and better quality cars, because quality should be measured by client satisfaction and reliability, which ensures you not being an asshole, and that, it's quite the oposite most german brands do by treating their clients like shit.
These brands are now a shadow of what they were in terms of technology and improvements, and just became arrogant bastards which their only interest is to rip you off.
Any basic Toyota has 3 times more equipment than any Audi, as standard.
Oh and sorry Thomas but I've seen you pronounce the word "conservative" many times in this review and it's a pity you don't repeat it as often in your Audis or Volkswagen cars reviews, were design is kept barely unchanged for 20 years.
Thumbs up for Toyota for making reliable, more eco quality cars for real people!
just hope people start opening their eyes and realize that german car manufacturers just want to rip them off, selling you expensive unreliable shit boxes that don't respect fuel emissions directives and that will slowly kill you.
just to add... very comfy seats for long journeys, very good sound insolation. This car is not for german autobans but for the rest of the world.
awaiting winter snow to test the 4x4
My favorite thing on RUclips now is seeing a new Autogefühl video:)
sounds good
me too..Thomas is a lot less awkward than saabkyle...but saabkyle have the best camera angles
Hi Tomas,
I'd like to comment on usability of hybrid vehicles on the Autobahn. The Toyota HSD system also makes sense on the Highway, for it is powered by an 2.5L 2AR-FXE Atkinson-cycle engine (the X stands for Atkinson-cycle in Toyotas engine codes). This means that the gasoline engine runs at nearly around 39% thermal efficiency, unlike standard Otto-cycle gasoline engines. Consumption is lower in the city, as the engine doesn't run all of the time and the electric CVT prevents that the engine is run in low efficiency regions. On the Autobahn the consumption is higher, than in the city but still lower than other gasoline engines as seen in other SUVs.
There is a general misconception in Germany about Hybrids. They are not meant to drive as much as possible in electric mode (like Plug-in-Hybrids), but they are meant to use gasoline in the most efficient way possible. The compact 1.6 kWh NiMH battery pack doesn't add much more weight, when compared to additional weight that turbocharging (intercooler+turbo+oilcooling+reinforced exhaust system) brings along.
For example: according to japanese JC08 measuring standards, the VW Golf GTE offers a fuel efficiency of 23,8 km per Liter, whereas the Toyota Auris Hybrid offers a fuel efficiency of 30,4 km per Liter. So the 1.8L Atkinson engine gets 6,6 more Kilometers per liter of gasoline than the 1.4L turbocharged engine.
German car manufacturers have recognized the idea behind Hybrid powertrains in 2009, which an patent by Daimler AG shows:
www.patent-de.com/pdf/DE102008035451A1.pdf
I hope this can help for a better understanding on the conceptional differences between full hybrids and plug-in-hybrids (which are oftenly cars with just standard gasoline engine, that have added an heavy battery to run some km on pure electric) :)
very interesting thanks!
btw as u seem quite savvy in the subject, I wondered if the electric engine / the battery heats up the engine before it starts the first time?
You're most welcome. The electric motor or battery doesn't heat up the engine, that's why in cold winter conditions the gasoline engine may run for some time to gain some temperature and generate heat for the aircon and catalythic converter to reach operation temperature. (Toyota gives priority to clean exhaust emissions before better mileage). In german hybrid forums it's called "Flammenwerfermodus"
On a sidenote: Toyota uses an Exhaust Heat Recovery System (EHRS) on the Prius III, Aqua, Prius IV, Prius c, Prius +, SAI, Lexus HS 250 and RX 450h. This sytsem uses exhaust heat to warm up the engine coolant and shorten the time the engine has to run.
energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/03/f8/deer11_barrieu.pdf
www.futabasangyo.com/en/products/product/car/heat_collect/
I'm not aware, that this system would be also used in the RAV4 Hybrid though.
using exhaust heat sounds almost like a turbo :)
thanks for the info m8 !
I still got mine and I'm very happy with it.
I'm not happy with the infotainment system + speaker setup, but I only use Bluetooth anyway and changed the upper front speakers with JBL - much better! I'm driving mostly short routes about 10km and I'm at ~7L/100KM E10 fuel (Spritmonitor), which is very good. It needs around 5,8L/100Km E10 fuel on long routes + 2 passengers + luggage, which is excellent.
What are the measures of your trunk?
Great review as usual, me among others really appreciate the true in depth aspect, where you are able to see how everything operates - without so much editing and time lapsing etc.
I don't know if anyone else sorted why it doesn't enter ev-mode in higher speeds, even when regaining energy. After some research I understood it's because of the design of the e-cvt. The gearbox is actually two electric motors and also the petrol engine. One of the electric motors drives the car, and the other generates electricity, from the petrol engine and also acts as a starter for it. That's why it starts so fast, since it's powered by the hybrid battery, and therefore is more powerful than a normal 12 volt one. Anyhow because of the gearbox design the petrol engine must spin above about 70-80 km/h I think to offset the electric motor's rpm, so it won't spin too fast and get ruined. But when petrol power isn't required for maintaining speed, on a autobahn downhill z.b. It spins but with its valves open, so it doesn't slow the car down - it just revs, no petrol is added, but with low resistance/ engine brake to save the electric motor from burning up and overreving.
Hope it makes sense, otherwise we will keep the comments going on until it's sorted! :)
Tschüss!
thanks for the feedback, keep supporting us!
Hallo Thomas ich habe mir dein RUclips Video mehrmals angeschaut. Mittlerweile im Dezember 2017 habe ich mir einen RAV4 Hybrid in der Ausstattung Team-D gekauft . Wir Sind als Familie mittlerweile 2000 km mit diesem Auto herumgefahren, hauptsächlich in der Stadt und auf der Landstraße . Das Auto hat ungefähr die Abmessungen eines VW Touran. Es ist besonders komfortabel gefedert mit guten sitzen und Guter Geräuschdämmung. Auch der Kofferraum ist groß genug für uns vier. Der Hybridantrieb ist etwas Besonderes: er ist nicht wie beim Prius darauf ausgelegt den letzten Tropfen Benzin zu sparen. Sondern er ersetzt eher den Turbolader. Das Auto fühlt sich an wie ein kraftvoller Turbodiesel . Gleichzeitig bleibt der Spritverbrauch im erträglichen Rahmen bei etwa 6,5 Litern in der Stadt und auf der Landstraße. Auf der Autobahn sind es etwa 7,5 Liter bei 140 kmh. Das Auto ist auch sehr handlich beim Einparken, weil es einen eher kleinen Wendekreis hat und man hoch sitzt.
+Fabian - super!
Thank you for this informative review. I have a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. It has 3.3 L V6 hybrid engine. It runs perfect 120K miles on it. Nothing wrong with it so far. Switching from gas engine to electric is automatically done. The electric engine gives 60 more HP to the gas engine, that helps when you want to pass and overtake slower drivers faster.
+Dell Chrombox thx 4 the feedback!
Really great review again Thomas - thank you once again for such detail. All the detail is really good for car enthusiasts! Also very good camera angle looking out forward through the windscreen, and showing us some of the instruments. Very good video editing. Thank you for demonstrating the Adaptive Cruise, Lane Assist and Side Assist too! Keep up the good work.
thanks gordon !
Thanks for one more nice review guys :) I really like Toyota cars not for it's looks or interior quality but for it's comfort suspension, high reliability and simplicity. If you want to buy a car that you can trust every time the best is Toyota. The only car brand (and a Lexus of course too) with what i didn't have any problems at all.
+Vitalii Gladun thx 4 the feedback! Lexus rx coming soon
Thanks for that! Another really nice crossover :) so comfortable, silent and definitely have that "premium" feeling that you like to talk about in your reviews ;) It will be just perfect if you test all the Lexus line up in future. I pesonally really like the GS an CT.
Lexus NX is here: ruclips.net/video/gTh7s55Z_0s/видео.html
Lexus RC F here: ruclips.net/video/sI40WhLujGk/видео.html
Already saw it :) Thanks!
one more extra comment: there are issues with ergonomy of the cockpit. In the car I drove, you could not see the swtches and indicators for the heated front seats. You had to bow down which is not safe
my Boss is on Holiday, its calm on the Office, time for autogefuhl!!!
YEAH!
Better option than porn or Pokemon go
Porn in your working place??? hahahahaha
They're really doing Mitsubishi a big favour by not making this a PHEV. So they can dominate that market for another year or two.
good point
I think the EV mode is basically meant to be used in parking garaces or some other places you don't want to have exhaustion gases like moving slow on pedestrian street or near childrens playground
VW and Suzuki Vitara 2016 have the best user friendly infotainment systems imho
Thomas - nice outfit to match for this review. White pant for this white Rav 4. In fact, I just bought a Rav 4 SE for my niece a couple of week ago. I didn't get the front parking sonar for her. Two days ago, I took her brand new Rav 4 to my buddy's car wash. Guess what? I scraped the bumper when I pull into his cash wash garage. I can't believe it. It was a tight spot, if her car has the front parking sonar warning ⚠️ it could of avoid the damage. I went to one of my buddy's Autobody shop in Costa Mesa, Ca. It cost $600USD for the repair. Autobahn Autobody is one of the best in Orange County. His shop approved for Rolls Royce certified. 3 days to complete the repair job. I drove the Rav 4, it is easy to drive, a bit more sporty because of the tokico front stunts. Also, I helped my nephew to get a Rav 4 SE with the JBL sound TECHNO package.(bird eyes camera, frt parking sonar, gps and premier entune app). Thanks for the review. The beep warning sound can be louder, I can't found to be adj to a louder sound. So, if you turn the radio loud volume with the road noise or sun roof opened. One may not able to hear the beep alert sound. LED high lights is bright at night driving. Average about 31 MPG.
It's a decent compact SUV for good comfort, cargo space. A/C cool down the cabin quiet fast. I wish Toyota would offer ventilated seats on this entry level SUV and Prius model. I chose the Rav 4 over Subaru Forester due to its reliability. My nephew trade-in his Subaru Outback with 120k miles for the Rav 4. Due to the reliability problems. Everything starting to break after 80k in his outback. Plus burning oil after 100k. 🦅🦅🇺🇸
thanks for the feedback m8 !
Exterior designed made by a blind artist, interior materials and tech straight from 90s o.O Good job, Toyota!
It is however wrong that the hybrid system doesn't do anything on the highway. It has less of an effect but it still helps out with general driving.
The Sky Dumont of car reviewers :) Well done videos, in depth reviews. Keep up the good work.
😎😎
Hello there. Another good review, pointing out the bad and the good.
About the boot cover. As you said it has some extensions. They are so that you could cover (as this is a cover) the luggage. As you mentioned the rear seat backs can be tilted and that opens a pretty good gap, so those covers are a great way to hide the gap. That is why they are flexible and longer. For me a pretty good system.
The beeping noise for the driver door. Well I really miss that i my new Seat. When i Stop the engine and the key is in the ignition i tend to forget it there because there is no audible or visual reminder that the key is there. Also the ignition is not illuminated and that is very helpful for the models with no keyless entry.
You forgot to tell that the diesel is only 2WD, rather than the regular petrol and hybrid 4WD. For the markets I have seen in Europe there is no diesel 4WD version. I could be wrong as i think this is a miss for Toyota Europe.
In USA in California Toyota are selling full electric RAV 4 versions as it is you could say is pretty much mandatory. I'm not sure why they are not importing those here in Europe. The EV network is expanding every month and in most western and northern countries is pretty good. Even a plugin solution will be better. As I understand the Prius will get a Plugin later this year, hope the other ones - Yaris, Auris and RAV4 will do too, as this is another miss by Toyota.
Non All Auto windows is pretty dull for this type of vehicle. For that price and class, it is just not acceptable in Europe. In a hot summer day you will need a good 30 seconds to open and another 30 seconds to close all the windows. with all Auto it is done in 5. For me this is a safety hazard. May be in USA or somewhere else I do not know but in Europe - NO NO.
The infotainment system - well not the best thing here. It's on par with the Mitsubishi, Kia and Hyundai but VW beats them all.
The AC controls on the other hand are spot on. Big enough, well within reach when driving, you can manage them with your eyes closed.
The automatic lever - What on earth are they thinking. The other hybrids have a small electronic, very recognisable toyota hybrid lever, Why put this old hardware looking thing there, when you could save space for cubbies or something. Even the suggested from you streight line design is better but not in a Toyota hybrid. This is a Toyota hybrid, it is meant to be sensible, comfortable, practical, visionary, It should have the small lever from the Prius - another miss for Toyota.
I think that with a few small changes here and there that are not so expensive (or look not to be expensive) this car will be a class leader. Now it's just not. It's just not well thought for the European customer. Yes they have a good service network and the hybrid drive is well proven over the years but inner comfort just needs to step up.
A great looking SUV .. Please do a video about New Peugeot 3008 someday please.
of course we will do that as soon as it is available for testing!
Thomas: From my experience in Lexus hybrids, the "EV" dashboard symbol does not illuminate if the car is in normal mode and the gas engine shuts down. That dashboard symbol only illuminates if the "EV Mode" button is selected. Then, as you pointed out, if the car accelerates beyond the EV maximum speed, the light will go out when the gas engine starts.
if you're cruising on the highway and if your revs are low enough, EV mode will come on on its own granted you aren't in sport mode.
+Robert Ehlers i ll check that in the lexus rx
I re-checked, EV it says when its driving electric as I said. There is a special green sign in the lower part for EV Mode when its active
But I thought that it can run with the electric motor AND the ICE at the same time? And sometimes ICE only? I presume that one can just monitor the tachometer to see when the ICE is on? Is there a gauge similar to the tach for the electric motor?
19:14 Thomas, the second electric motor is used to power rear wheels, it is an electric AWD system and the second motor is located in the rear as well. Other than this great review. Things I was looking for when choosing new car, were: space, awd, nat.asp. petrol, consumption, reliability and emission levels. No one on the market offers better package so far for this price that is for sure.
+Super Jozzef did i say smth different? Our car just had the 1 electric
my point was that the big advantage of the 2nd electric motors, which makes it then AWD, is that the towing capacity is hugely improved. That's the biggest benefit, other than that, you pay 3.000 Euro extra for not really much benefit
***** awd is worth 3000 euro, not everyone will drive this car only on asphalt roads and in summer
After testing KIA Niro and this Rav4 hybrid which one of them have you felt more efficient from a hybrid system point of view?
considering that the Niro uses more often the electric engine I think i would rather go for that one at least i feels like the RAV4 changes more rapidly to the naturally espirated engine
Compare sister model Lexus NX: ruclips.net/video/gTh7s55Z_0s/видео.html
Hi, Autogefühl. Interesting proposition. The new 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has overcame the (older) Lexus NX300h. The Toyota has better acceleration (8,3 secs to reach 60 mph, while the Lexus NX300h takes 9,3 secs), better scores at all the safety agencies (EuroNCAP, IIHS, NHTSA), more interior room, spare wheel (the Lexus NX lacks of it), superior towing capacity and better offroad habilities. And for $ 6.000 less, you'll have much more accesories or extras, like electric sunroof, 360º cameras, touch screen, lane departure assistant, blind spot detector...
I love to buy one, because I drive the most in the City. It meets my needs
For the City its great. And a specialy the rav4 with the big 2.5 Liter Engine is not that bad on motorways too. The smaller 1.8 Liter HSD in the Auris and Prius looked a bit underpowered on higher speeds for example the classic passing a car in front of you or on the motorway.
So a diesel hybrid makes more sense, with the hybrid mode making city driving more fuel efficient, and the diesel being better for out of the city.
agreed
funny thing though about how little the electric motor was operating, is that in real world testing by Alex on Autos/youtube, it did extremely well for fuel economy, including vs the very different system in the Honda CR-V hybrid.
funny that u should mention the annoying beeping when opening doors, etc: in the recent yrs models of some japanese cars, the unlock & opening doors operations include SOOOOO many beeps, often 4 to six in a row, high pitch piercing, travels four houses away into my window when i'm sleeping & i'm not in the quietest city neighborhood here in the U.S. So i'm veeeery keen to buy my next car ONLY if the beeps r disable-able for security/doors, etc.
This is a very good review! Thank you Thomas. I bought a Hybrid RAV4 Limited last fall. I'm very satisfied with it.
There are a few negatives that I should mention: the cargo space is limited by the intrusion of the battery, the automatic back door apparently has no obstacle detection so you must be careful not to park too closely to a wall or other obstacle and on closing it only stops when almost closed so be careful, also the driver side door handle seems cheap when opening the door on the driver side as you pointed out and finally the interactive touch pad is slow and not very sophisticated. It looks a bit like a Star Wars storm trooper in the front but you either like that or not -- its a matter of taste. The JBL sound system is anemic compared to the Bose system in my previous car but the fact that I can call on the phone by just talking to the car or ask where points of interest are such as "Where is the closest hospital?" is a huge bonus.
There are so many positives that I just had to let you know about them. First of all the fuel economy is great and there is no range anxiety because of the hybrid gas engine. When you are stuck in stop and go traffic the electric mode takes over and you burn no fuel while idling or shuffling along with the traffic. Another bonus of the hybrid is that the brakes should require about half the maintenance of a normal vehicle because the regenerative braking system delays the use of the normal brakes most of the time. On the highway there is sufficient power to merge comfortably and to pass slower vehicles. The engine is a bit noisy at high revs but when cruising the RAV4 Limited is quiet and feels smooth and comfortable. I love the seats -- I just returned from a 1500 km trip and had no discomfort at all and felt good when I got out of the car. (Ah the advantages of being a few centimeters higher than in my old Mazda 6 station wagon.) When in Sport mode the steering is much tighter and the car feels much more agile both on the highway and on most secondary roads. The heated steering wheel is a nice addition in the car I have -- maybe its a Canada only feature. Finally, let me say that the confidence I have in Toyota reliability generally and their experience with developing hybrids makes me sure I will enjoy the RAV4 for a long time.
thanks for the interesting feedback Terry!
Been driving this as a daily last few weeks and the engine noise is incredibly annoying. It's very loud when accelerating. Ruins what would have been a great all rounder. This is my only complaint.
Love your reviews, amazed you get so few views. Keep it up, I'm sure it will grow.
Ive spike you you before about the Octavia Vrs wagon. Bit over the last few weeks this has has jumped up my list, and your video ended up in my recommended vids 👍
feel free to spread the word!
Best car reviews online. Thanks Thomas.
thanks so much recommend us!
Why do car media systems suck so much compared to smart phones, yet they cost more?
Samsung should get their hands on them, but than again it would be more expensive for car makers and they could not make 600% profit on them
*Apple
Im wondering about Toyota at this point. The Toyota Touch 2 System doesnt offer any Smartphone App Connectivity any more. They stayed at Mirror Link 1.1. That is supported by old Android Phones like the Samsung Galaxy 3. I heard about that they do that cuz they have better control about the apps started. Toyota realy needs a better Smartphone Integration. The other Carbuilders have so much better Solutions mostly. I like they Hybrid Toyota cars cuz noone offers something like it. All try it but noone has something like it for the Price.
EuroMoto Who would Samesong copy? Will Google rip off car play for them, so that dim witted buyers could buy the also ran and limited copy to save a nickel? Lots of questions here!
To many companiens and developers waiting for the money to drop in. Like Samsung, Sony, Apple, etc.Actually they work better in cars than in phones because we excpect less off them. SO they can utalize the SnapDragon and CPU or GPU for a lower prize
AUTOGEFUHL legend.
:>
Had The Avensis once, seems Like that car had a better look and feel internal and external.
Might be the case. The Avensis is built for the European market, which has different tastes and requirements than the US or Asia, whereas the RAV4 is a global car, like the Prius, which is not as adapted to the european markets.
I noticed you saying the electrical motor is not in use on the motorway/highway and the fuel comsuption is at 7 litres per 100 km.
I've seen two reviews of this car prior to this one and both states after the test drive that the fuel consuption stated by the factory was correct.
One of the tests were over 1000 km and still they did just over 5 litres per 100 km.
Always depends on road conditions and driving profile ... I didnt race at all though
I drove the diesel equivalent of this very car and it seemed a very good combinaton - a great engine from BMW apparently. To answer some of your questions: the face-lift makes a big difference - it is finally a RAV4 you wanna look at, like the mark I in 1994:) the mark II was so-so, and mark III was very poor design. The modernised lights with LED lines improve a lot, both front and rear. As for the cover behind the seat it works when you push the back of the back seat forward. I've seen it on a Nissan b4. As for the choice of engines it depends mostly where you drive - hybrid is OK for the city and for longer distances it makes sense to buy a diesel. The EV mode is good for ULEV zones - we might have them in Europe soon.
thanks for the feedback !
OMG. Are yousure the diesel is made by BMW? The reason i am buying a Toyota is to run away from the horror of the 2.0 e92 Bmw 320 engine.
yes
I have read it in many places, so it's probably true. However, It won't be the same as e92, it's been years since. So it is up to you to decide if it is "the horror" you experienced. People get stuck with names and sizes and forget that the engeneers work all the time on new generations of engines.
mtumasz the e92 was a petrol engine btw. Constant coil failures , injector failures, Nox sensor failures. Its was a nightmare. Already ordered the diesel Rav4 but i am panicking now. Maybe I could change the order to a hybrid
Thanks Thomas. Great review. This RAV4 is an improvement style-wise. Side profile does need some more character- a bit too one-dimensional. Seats look comfy.
+Drew B ✌️
Hi Thomas,
I recently took a trip to Poland, a nation plagued with diesels, and found that the claim Toyota makes there for it's hybrid systems is that they are cleaner to operate, cheaper to run and maintain, and more efficient than vehicles with diesel powertrains. In your digest of this Rav4, did you find that it is more efficient that its diesel and petrol competition?
yeah indeed!
Excellent! Thank you!
Autogefuhl is the best!
we really appreciate that!
Is it me or the car is really quite on 120 km/h? What is your opinion if you compare with Lexus nx 300h?
Lexus NX review is now here: ruclips.net/video/KaZ5LMkYA44/видео.html
Cool review. Thanks a lot Thomas!
You told that you are not sure if a plug-in hybrid doesn't make more sense. But hey. You used at all 6.l/100km using an petrol SUV with around 200hp, without having to charge it.
From my perspectiv it makes sense use a full hybrid like this one, even if you don't save so much/any thing on the highway. But as soon as you live the highway it looks different.
Me for my self I don't want to put full in and have also to charge all the time.
Thanks! Yeah thats really OK !
Hi!,
Great videos. I have one tip. If you are trying suv or other awd car. Test it off road as well. I believe everyone (including me) is interested to see how it's going off the road. Drive it untill they stuck in the mud.
Good luck!
Lukas
Sure, but we have no offroad area available. We can just do it when it is being offroad within an event with special offroad location, like this: ruclips.net/video/jj5m0lGbsFo/видео.html
If we can drive it offroad, we do. But in most cases, there is just no possibility.
Thanks - another professional review and follow up to the first one on the Rav4 Hybrid. If you set cruise control speed, and come to a stop... will a simple lever touch regain set speed or must you reset the speed ( a fault Toyota/Lexus did to many of their cars in the US! ) How easily does the CVT match with engine RPM? Will you ever compare this RAV4 to it's sister version offered by Lexus? Hope to visit Germany one day since I'm getting used to your route on streets and motorway from all the reviews :-) The hybrid seems best of both worlds --- I don't have a garage and can't stretch a charging cord across sidewalk to my car space for a Tesla and I like the "free driving" you get from the hybrid plus the ability to take a ride even if battery is not charged --- there are so many Prius cars in US- dozens in every town. I'm wondering if the OEM tires are not the best choice and different tires might make a difference in the ride quality. The hybrid system will pay for itself in 2 years on average.. quicker as the fuel prices rise! NOTE: reviews might talk about the seating position with regard to the steering wheel position... too many cars do not have a centered steering stack- seems aimed towards drivers shoulder instead of body center
hey bob, you see see our Lexus NX review here: ruclips.net/video/gTh7s55Z_0s/видео.html
And indeed, the ACC is not good at all, it stops at 40 or 30 km/h so doesnt brake until zero. And if you want to set a new speed you have to put it off and on again - or go all the way in 5 km/h steps
Gr8 review Thomas !!!
thanks m8 !
I'm not a Toyota's fun :) RAV4 looks rather calm and stable, it has a kind of sad apparition but all in all it surely is a resonable. It's just missing something...
Thanks Thomas!
I think Toyota did a good job here. The RAV4 looks quite good (the rear is a bit weird though).
I also like the interior, it's quite different with that lower part sticking out a bit and dressed in (fake) leather. I don't understand why they stick to that old fashioned gear lever though, especially because they have a nice and special one in both the Prius and the Mirai.
As for the driving, I guess it's great if you have a relaxed driving style and maybe make a sport of trying to figure out how to drive as economical as possible. I noticed that if you want to drive a little sportier, you get greeted by the good old CVT characteristic of a screaming engine. That puts me off, although you could say it's great for fuel consumption if you try to prevent it in the first place! :-)
+Gerard van Essen yeah sporty driving with that cvt would drive u crazy!
I’m expecting a new redesign 5th generation RAV4 2019 or RAV4 2020 will be a bit sportier and more aggressive, more eco, bigger, nicer, safer, stronger, and higher than this 4th generation .
The front of the vehicle shall be semi- AUDI Q8 2018,
and the rear of the vehicle shall be semi- BMW X7 2018 .
Excellent review!
thanks keep tuning in :)
I guess its not an electric A/C like in the Audi A3 e-Tron. Thats maybe the reason why the engine always keeps kicking in to keep the cooling or heating function alive.
+SuperAless112 yeah good point
Is there a review planned of the new Lexus Rx 450h Thomas?
Greetings from Frankfurt/Main :)
How did you get it without the gas wasting roof rails? Is that standard in Germany? (ior is this a USA car?) for a hybrid you want BETTER aerodynamics and airflow over the roof. they added the roof rails which waste MPGs. is that a custom order? I want to get my wifes that way without roof rails.
Probably the reason for the comfort leaning drive, is probably to not engorge you to drive quickly and kill all the hybrid advantages.
What is best? The Kia Niro or this hybrid Toyota RAV4?
Compare our review: ruclips.net/video/olE-NKd87-o/видео.html
I've already watched it. But I want your opinion. ;)
Quite different cars imho. Hard to condense my opinion of 2x 40 minutes to a few seconds :)
Autogefühl Hehe yeah, I understand. Just tested the Niro myself. And I'm in love. :)
+Kevin Gentjens rav4 is better for tall people i d say, the niro fits better in the city as its way smaller, still good package
Great review , thomas could you plz do a review on lexus Lx 570 ..would be highly appreciated, best regards
(Y)
Great review. Is there any chance you will be reviewing the Toyota Touring Auris (Hybrid) anytime soon?
thanks! no schedule so far but lets see what we can do
Engine sound with that CVT - last "Mooo" of dying cow.
Germany is so beautiful, don't let terrorism destroy it.
we ll try our best to keep our freedom
it's sad what's been happening to Europe. Munich used to be beautiful and now....eww.
Stay strong and fight back, guys!
This or Mazda CX5 2016?
+Autogefuhl , great review as always!
Can you please review the Corolla facelift ?
Can someone confirm that the diesel variant of the Rav4 is made by BMW? The reason i am buying a Toyota is to run away from the horror of the 2.0 e92 Bmw 320 engine.
Dear Thomas, that's really nice review. You really show us many details as long the good and bad things about the rav4 hybrid, keep doing best reviews. Can you tell me is there any chance that you test same rav4 with petrol engine and manual gearbox? I would be very appreciated! Greetings from Croatia.
thanks Igor! Not really, not really making sense to test the very same vehicle just with another engine, we hardly do that as we would have to present every vehicle 4 times then =)
Very beautiful design
Top top reviews, great job guys. PS how does the RAV4 compare to Jeep Renegade? Which one feels better on the road?
Feel free to compare our review!
ruclips.net/video/oAzJRGH6u30/видео.html
Autogefühl I saw that one too 👍 but seeing isn't driving 😢 hence I asked you which one feels better 😅. I currenly have Benz S Klasse year 2000 ❤️
Hehe. Well tbh I would rather consider those for compact suvs:
ruclips.net/video/SYz0U2fO1bI/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/aQN7d_-bFIA/видео.html
Cool, thanks! I will check them out. But if you had to chose between Nissan X-Trail and Toyota RAV4, which one would you pick (approx the same price)?
Interesting review again Thomas. Great work. You say you have covered all of the compact SUV class but you haven't tested the Subaru Forester XT. Please do as I am looking to buy a petrol SUV and would welcome your thoughts.
hey Matt, just ordered a Forester for later this year :) With petrol
Great! Normally aspirated (XE) is too weak for me but turbo (XT) is much better. Still unsure about having CVT box and high fuel consumption. Drove Outlander PHEV and liked the electric drive like you but not convinced by the rest of the car.
seen our Outlander PHEV review?
Our Forester will be with Turbo afaik
Good one,l what to know the price
Watch for that "dangerous" hatch gate.
Hi Thomas, you tried both, which one would you buy, RAV4hybrid AWD or Tiguan 2,0Tdi basic model for the same price?
Hey, the Tiguan is the better car in driving and interior feel/build quality as well as usability; however I prefer the toyota hybrid system over a Diesel. So overall I'd take the Tiguan petrol then as a compromise
The RAV4 trunk appeared smaller to me!
Wow - I am amazed how cheap those interior mouldings look. The area around the EV mode switches looks like Airfix model plastic - also the boot/trunk has a lot of hard plastic panels rather than carpet which could make the interior noisy. Great in a Landrover, perhaps not in a passenger car. I know styling is subjective but I think looks weird and ungainly. With that and the apparently low rent interior plastics, it looks a disappointing car to me. I would be interested to see real world economy against a good turbo diesel and also the effect on reliability of the combustion engine kicking in from cold and potentially not warming up before switching off again. Usually that is one of the quickest ways to kill a combustion engine, but I am sure Toyota have fixed that (hopefully !). Good review Thomas, overall, I much prefer the Kia Niro.
thanks for the feedback!
Thomas, awesome review. May I ask what backpack are you using ?
thanks! Erm dont quite remember which one was in that video, timecode?
RAV4 Hybrid video, the boot part @16:45 ruclips.net/video/Zmy-q1t-Tsk/видео.html
Ah, that's actually a Volvo Oceanrace backpack. It's very good in the interior, but wears out quite quickly though
I really like your reviews! Keep going! Can you review the Hyundai Santa Fe, please?
+Jones Anderson noting that down!
Thanks :)
Do you like e-cvt? I will buy this car in friday... I hope that will be ok, test drive was very short but it was ok ;-) I'm calm driver ;-)
for calm drivers it works :)
Nice Presentation again Thomas, liked the extra helping of humour! Keep up the great work!
=)
hi love your reviews but can you do a review on the ford kuga mid facelift 2016 model please
+corals win hey, i ll note that down
thanks
Love the camera placement on the driver side window, watching this felt just like driving it (had a chance to drive my mother's RAV4 hybrid).
Great review, really agree with all of your points (a little bit noisier than others, better for city only, ev mode switches too fast, etc)
glad u liked it !
you know he is German when 4:09 lol
never by a car with the front blinkers on the inside of the headlamps
I think I have narrowed it down to the Mazda CX-5 or the RAV4 Hybrid....decisions decisions
Rav4 hybrid for sure.
what about the Ford CMAx Hybrid. High seatng position and better MPG if you dont need to cargo space.
Hallo! Any change you will be driving/testing a (2016 MY) Land Rover Discovery Sport with the manual gearbox and 2.0 Igenium Diesel?
Hey m8, no sorry
Hi I like the reviews you guys do. Could you do the Toyota CHR Hybrid please.....
Yes - actually it is uploading atm =)
ruclips.net/video/jYw2m4ZAYFs/видео.html
Danke T.....
Did you try out the adaptive cruise control? Does it work as well as in a Volvo or VW?
it works well, but there is a great "but" indeed - it wont work below 40 km/h, the Volvo and VW ACC goes down until zero
Oh, that's a shame, hoped that it at least would work down to 30 km/h.
On a manually shifted Volvo the ACC works down to 30 km/h, but on the automatic - with queue driving assistant - it works down to 0 km/h.
Seems like the Niro is a better highway car...
I see a lot of parts that are shared with the Yaris I have
Please make a review with Subaru Forester Boxer Diesel :)
Subaru Forester was just scheduled :)
That's awesome! ;)
If only you wore a white jacket!
Warum nicht auf Deutsch. Ist doch alles in Deutschland gedreht.
Hallo!
Unsere Website für ausführliche Hintergrundinformationen machen wir auf Deutsch.Die Videos laufen über RUclips und erreichen ein internationales Publikum, sehr viele Zuschauer aus USA, Deutschland, Großbritannien, Japan, Russland und weitere aus über 100 Ländern der Welt. Darum sind die meisten unserer Videos auf Englisch.
Die meisten deutschen Videozuschauer verstehen auch Englisch, aber fast alle anderen verstehen kein Deutsch. Insofern ist es nur logisch, die Videos auf Englisch anzubieten, was auch sehr gut ankommt.Wir würden uns freuen, wenn du auf Deutsch unsere Text-Berichterstattung verfolgst und auch hier unsere englischen Videos.
Herzliche Grüße
Thomas
Check the story about Toyota Hybrids reliability: www.carscoops.com/2013/12/toyota-prius-hybrid-taxi-clocks-1.html
man that car is trash inside!The dash is terrible
I think, my Prius III have better interior :D
Was this the cheapest trimlevel you could find ?
When you are testing German cars it's always the highest trim level with a lot of extras.
It seems you are paid by German car industry.
Please think before you write. If you followed the whole review you will hear that i was very satisfied with this trim level and also explicitly recommend it - and if you watch other of our reviews you hear me complaining about the manufacturers giving us the high-trim-level cars with animal skin seats. So please re-think your though carefully and also enjoy this episode: ruclips.net/video/VZ180HNvMlk/видео.html
The reviewers don't choose the trim level of the cars they review. Car companies have cars set aside for journalist to test, and THEY choose the higher trim levels to showcase their vehicles.
This car is outdated.
Compare this interior with the new 3008 XD
No Chance for Toyota ;D
And you need to Review the 3008 as Early as possible :D
sure 3008 is really highly anticipated here, we ll try to do that asap. I think we can get first glimpse in Paris early September and driving late September, thats my estimation
Mate,, waiting time for this car is already over 9+ months because the factory cannot deal with so many orders, this will be a best seller, so yes chance for Toyota + this has proven to be reliable, not like Peugeot... (same underbody, same hybrid engine as Lexus NX)
you mean waiting period 9month + for the rav4?
I have been told in Juni that it would come first in March but could be later, talking about the Hybrid. World wide it is the best selling small SUV. At least last year it was.
VERY CRUEL TEST FOR THE TOYOTA RAV4 TOMAS !!! TOMAS WHY SO CRUEL FOR THIS CAR WHAT DID HE DONE DO YOU ???!!!
Didnt realize any of this was "cruel"
Better then German problematic diesels
the best SUV for this price level. Do not buy hybrid. petrol engines are great and fuel economy is excellent. boot capacity is much bigger than the hybrid version and 4x4 system different. also do not forget that hybrids are some 5000 euros more expensive..
indeed
I don't like RAV4 or Toyota cars in general. They are reliable, i must admit, but design or quality-wise they are still in 90's. People say that german cars are overrated, but compare build quality of this RAV4 and Tiguan. They are on different planets.
Completely disagree. My sister has the Tiguan and I have the new RAV4. The Toyota is more refined and more comfortable. The VW has a nicer soft touch dash but I rarely touch that part of the car. Whereas the RAV4 has soft leather where it counts- around the controls
Dortmund, my town
+Radioaktivify :)