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 Toyota South Africa
has extended the RAV4 range by adding an additional model at the bottom of
the range. The 180 does not only offer lifestyle buyers a cheaper
alternative, but does so without sacrificing much in terms of creature
comforts and conveniences.
Unlike its more expensive siblings - RAV4 3-door and 5-door manuals and
5-door automatic 4x4s - the RAV4 180 is a 3-door derivative powered by a
high-tech multi-valve four-cylinder 92 kW/161 Nm 1,8 litre engine with
intelligent variable valve-timing (VVTi) driving the front wheels only. A
five speed manual gearbox is the only choice, while standard features
include colour coded mirrors, styled 16-inch steel wheels (with 215/70 R16
tyres), and a front spoiler with integrated fog lights. In fact, the 180
is virtually indistinguishable from its 4x4 stable mates.
According to a TSA release, the RAV4 180 will play an important role in
extending Toyota's representation in the SUV market and bolster an already
comprehensive line-up in a fashion-conscious market segment. Toyota
believes the new model will be particularly appealing to the younger
status and style conscious female buyer, especially since a large
proportion of sales in this market segment are style driven with use
confined mainly to urban areas. The RAV4's four wheel drive capability is
generally only required occasionally and in extreme circumstances.
Weight savings achieved by the use of fewer, large drive components,
combined with less mechanical resistance inherent in a two wheel drive
system allowed Toyota the use of a 1,8 litre engine as opposed to the 2,0
litre engine of the 4x4 models - without any negative impact on
performance but with gains in the form of lower purchase price and running
costs with fuel efficiency making an important contribution in this
regard.
The suspension system is McPherson struts and 'L'-shaped control arms at
the front. Dampers are low-pressure nitrogen filled units. Double
wishbones are used at the rear with the coil springs located separately
from the damper units, a design feature that allows interior space in the
rear compartment to be maximized.
Other standard features include a height adjustable driver's seat;
variable power steering with tilt facility; seats with Toyota's WIL
(Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept that assists in holding the body in a
position that will dampen the effects of a low speed rear end collision on
seat occupants and limit neck injuries; ABS brakes with electronic braking
force distribution; driver and front passenger airbags; front and rear fog
lamps; aircon; radio/CD combination; central locking; powered windows and
mirrors; an immobilizer system with transponder key, and a tow bar wiring
point.
There are also 10 such storage and convenience areas, including two cup
holders front and rear, a small centre dash facility for cards and coins,
door trim pockets for maps and other like items, a door sub-pocket area
for items such as a small umbrella, a pocket in the back door trim for
storing extra maps and documents, a convenience hook in the luggage area,
a box at the side of the luggage area (for a first aid kit or other
oddments), emergency triangle storage, and a sunglass storage facility in
overhead console. Additionally, there are two 12V power sockets (one on
the console, the other in the boot).
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