(TORONTO, Ontario) – In December 2005, the third-generation Toyota RAV4 burst into the compact SUV segment, immediately setting new sales records thanks to its vibrant new design, dynamic power and handling, and extensive list of standard and optional features.

 

The 2007 RAV4 is even better.  Front seat mounted side airbags and roll-sensing front and rear head/side curtain airbags are now standard across the lineup for added occupant protection, while two new option packages give owners the chance to add luxury to two popular models:

         The 4-cylinder RAV4 Limited may now be equipped with a new ‘B' option package that includes leather seating surfaces, heated driver and front passenger seats, and simulated leather door trim.

         The RAV4 Sport V6 may now be fitted with an optional power tilt-and-slide moonroof with sunshade.

 

“Toyota invented the car-based compact SUV segment when we launched the first RAV4 in 1996, and we continue to set the standard in 2007,” said Tony Wearing, Managing Director of Toyota Canada Inc.  “The new-generation RAV4 has caught the imagination of buyers because it combines the ‘Never Quit' philosophy of Toyota's entire truck lineup with the youthful attitude toward work and play that's key for the active lifestyle.”

 

The 2007 RAV4 is available with a choice of engines and trim levels, and the price is as attractive as the package.  Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $29,300 for the base RAV4 4-cylinder, while the Limited 4-cylinder model has an MSRP starting at $33,195.  The base V6 model will have an MSRP of $31,800, with the Sport version starting at $33,590.  The Limited V6 grade starts at $36,970.

 

Starting in 2008, RAV4 will be built for North America at Toyota's newest Canadian assembly plant, now under construction in Woodstock, Ontario.  The new plant will employ 2,000 people and build 150,000 vehicles per year.

 

2007 TOYOTA RAV4 – PRODUCT DETAIL

 

CHOICE OF ENGINES:  POWER AND MORE POWER

RAV4 can be equipped with one of two lively powerplants to enhance the driving experience.  The RAV4 Base and Limited are fitted with a 16-valve, dual overhead cam 2.4-litre inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 166 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 165 lb-ft torque @ 4,000 rpm.  The RAV4 Base V6, Sport V6 and Limited V6 are powered by a 24-valve, dual overhead cam 3.5-litre V6 that produces a class-leading horsepower rating of 269 hp @ 6,200 rpm and 246 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm.

 

Both engines feature Toyota's Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology and aluminum cylinder blocks and heads to maximize power while delivering top-level SUV fuel economy.  This technology seamlessly advances or retards both intake and exhaust cams simultaneously, maximizing valve overlap to improve engine performance and fuel efficiency.

 

Engine technology, coupled with a state-of-the-art Toyota exhaust system, ensures all RAV4s meets Environment Canada's stringent Tier 2 emission standards.  The 4-cylinder RAV4 has impressive fuel consumption ratings for a compact SUV – 10.1 litres/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway.  The RAV4 V6 consumes 11.1 litres/100 km in the city and 7.7 on the highway.

 

TWO SMART TRANSMISSIONS

For the RAV4, Toyota has created not one, but two transmissions.  The Super-Electronically-Controlled automatic Transmissions (‘Super ECT') are available in a four-speed configuration for the 4-cylinder model and a 5-speed configuration for the V6 model.

 

Both are highly responsive transmissions that deliver top-level compact design, smooth shifting feel, and enhanced fuel economy, while the 5-speed further boosts acceleration and fuel economy.  Both also feature uphill/downhill shift control to reduce the frequency of gear shifting while travelling uphill and the need for braking going downhill.

 

ACTIVE TORQUE CONTROL 4-WHEEL DRIVE

All RAV4s feature Toyota's Active Torque Control 4-wheel drive technology, which enhances stability and fuel efficiency by optimizing the distribution of drive force to the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving conditions, while delivering the benefits of full-time 4-wheel drive whenever it's needed.

 

The electronically-controlled coupling provides superior control over the distribution of power to the front and rear differentials, and enabling the RAV4 to switch continuously between front- and 4-wheel drive mode.  When in Auto mode, torque distribution to the rear wheels is decreased during normal driving conditions and low speed tight cornering situations.  A manual locking switch disengages the Auto mode to allow a maximum torque split of 55/45 between the front and rear wheels.  The system reverts to Auto mode when vehicle speed reaches 40 km/h, or when the brakes are engaged.

 

RESPONSIVE, FUN TO DRIVE HANDLING

Designed for taut, controlled handling, the RAV4 features a custom-designed trailing-type double wishbone suspension in the rear, while the front suspension includes front MacPherson gas struts, coil springs and shock absorbers.

 

The steering gear ratio and electrical power steering control have been matched to the front suspension geometry for a comfortable steering feel.  The steering wheel is mounted on a telescoping/tilting column, while a column-type electric power steering system delivers excellent steering feel and enhanced fuel economy in an environmentally-friendly system that needs no power steering fluid.

 

All RAV4s feature Toyota's advanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and Traction Control (TRAC).  The enhanced VSC system interfaces with an Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system, allowing VSC to better anticipate a vehicle loss of control in almost any direction.

 

The V6-equipped RAV4s also come with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

 

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) automatically increases stability when the vehicle is starting on an incline.  When the RAV4 is in any forward gear, HAC briefly applies the brakes to reduce the backward speed of the vehicle.  This controls and slows backward roll long enough for the driver to switch from the brake pedal to the throttle.  As soon as the throttle is depressed, HAC disengages and TRAC engages.

 

Downhill Assist Control (DAC) uses brake intervention to improve directional control while driving or reversing down a steep or slippery incline.  With the transmission in lower gear, drivers engage DAC via a switch on the console.  With no pedal input from the driver, DAC uses the brakes to control vehicle descent.

 

Standard tires are all-season P225/65R17 radials mounted on steel wheels for the base models, and on 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels for the Limited models.  The Sport model is equipped with larger all-season P235/55R18 tires on 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

 

For the outdoor adventurers, the 4-cylinder version has a towing capacity of 680 kg (1,500 lbs), while that of the V6 is 1,587 kg (3,500 lbs).

 

EQUIPPED FOR FUN AND FUNCTION

RAV4's versatility is enhanced with 60/40 split Toyota Easy Flat rear seats.  Unique to the segment, the seats fold down into the rear floor space with the touch of a lever easily accessible from the rear tailgate, leaving a fully-flat luggage space – and without the need to remove any seat cushions or headrests.  For models without third row seating, an under-floor rear storage box in the cargo area provides a convenient area to secure items and keep them out of sight.

 

The well-equipped RAV4 base model is equipped with a further range of amenities that includes:

         AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system and audio auxiliary input Jack

         power windows and door locks

         keyless entry

         illuminated entry

         Optitron gauges

         dual glove box

         front and rear cupholders

         cruise control

         air conditioning with rear seat heater ducts

         60/40 folding rear seat

         tonneau cover and cargo net

         tilt/telescopic steering wheel

         dual power remote heated side mirrors

         large capacity storage box under rear deck

                                                          

The RAV4 Limited models include all the features in the base grade, but add a number of performance, style, comfort and convenience upgrades, including:

         audio system with in-dash 6-CD changer and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel

         automatic climate control with dual zone control and pollen air filter

         power driver's seat

         leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

         driver footwell lamps

         power moonroof

         fog lamps

         colour-keyed door handles

         and, on the V6 model, third row seating (replacing the tonneau cover and cargo net)

 

The new ‘B' option package for the RAV4 Limited adds leather seating surfaces, heated driver and front passenger seats, and simulated leather door trim.

 

The B package on the Limited V6 model does not include the third row seating, but adds a premium JBL audio system with 9 speakers, leather seat surfaces, simulated leather door trim, heated front seats, colour-keyed fender flares, and rear seat remote release in cargo area.

 

The RAV4 Sport V6 is equipped with 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, colour-keyed fender flares and unique black headlamp surround.  A new power tilt-and-slide moonroof with sunshade is now available as an option.

 

SAFETY FEATURES COVER ALL THE BASES

All 2007 RAV4 models are now equipped with front seat-mounted side airbags and roll-sensing front and rear head/side curtain airbags, in addition to dual-stage SRS driver and passenger airbags.  Furthermore, the RAV4 is equipped with three-point lap and shoulder belts with adjustable shoulder belt anchors for all seating positions, and also features anchor points for child restraint seats.

 

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is enhanced with Electric Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist technologies.

 

Up front, the RAV4s halogen headlamps feature an enlarged high-beam illumination area for improved night-time visibility, while fog lamps on Limited and Sport models provide additional light when it's needed most.  A wiper de-icer is standard on the RAV4 to aid front visibility.  To help drivers see what's behind them, the new RAV4 features electrically adjustable heated side mirrors that are larger than on previous models.

 

RAV4 is equipped with Toyota's no deductible, no transfer fee, comprehensive warranty that covers the entire vehicle for 3 years/60,000 kilometres.  Power train components are covered for 5 years/100,000 kilometres, major emission control components for 8 years/130,000 kilometres and corrosion perforation for five years with unlimited distance. 

 

Toyota also provides 24-hour Roadside Assistance for all models; help is just a phone call away at 1-888-TOYOTA-8.  Roadside emergency services include battery boost, lockout service, fuel delivery, tire change, winching, and even towing.  Optional Extended Care Protection (ECP) is also available, which includes travel planning and trip interruption assistance, vehicle rental help, lubrication maintenance, and mechanical protection for up to 6 years/200,000 km of 17 major mechanical component groups.

 

The purchase of a new Toyota also includes a free membership in Club Toyota, an on-line service designed for customer convenience, placing vehicle ownership information at the customer's fingertips.