2018 Toyota RAV4 Release date, Price, Hybrid

The ongoing generation of the RAV4 has been released back in 2012 and since then it received a large refresh with the 2016 version. Even though the car is not all that old, it seems that Toyota may release an entirely new version quite soon with the upcoming 2018 Toyota RAV4. This will be one of the first cars, after the Prius, to receive Toyota’s new modular architecture. This new chassis will employ materials like high-strength steel, aluminum and even composites in certain applications. The end result should be a noticeably lighter and more rigid car than before without adding much, if anything, to the cost of the vehicle.

2018 Toyota RAV4 Release date and Price

So far the release date of the car has been kept under wraps. However, rumors suggest that it may be showcased in November 2017 as a concept and go on sale a year later. The price should be pretty similar to that of the ongoing generation meaning it will likely start at $25,000. The big differences will come with a second model of the RAV4. It seems that for this generation Toyota may decide to release a seven-seat version which would compete with the future CRV and Santa Fe.

The car would have a slightly longer wheelbase than the regular model and it would also be offered with a new engine as well. Take into account though that this model is just a rumor at this point but considering where the market is heading, it is very likely going to be released.

Design

The latest model of the RAV4 looks up to date with Toyota’s latest cars. This makes us think that the future 2018 Toyota RAV4 will be very similar to it. However, there will be differences. For starters, we do expect the angular design to be carried over. However, the new model should make use of an even more aggressive fascia as well as it might be offered in a coupe-like shape, at least for the five-seat model. In any case, the new car will look a lot more like an update of the current generation than anything else.

Interior

Inside the cabin, the Toyota RAV4 2018 should follow closely the upcoming Camry. This is expected to be launched next year, ahead of the launch of the new RAV4. Because of that, we do believe that the two might share quite a few design elements inside the cabin. On top of that, the equipment level should also be quite similar, especially since the price of the car will be on the same level.

Hybrid and Petrol Engine OF Toyota RAV4 2018

The current RAV4 is being powered by a 2.5 naturally aspirated inline 4 with 176 horsepower or by a 2.5-liter hybrid. In any case, it falls short of the power levels of its rivals but it makes up with fuel efficiency. The upcoming 2018 Toyota RAV4 is actually expected to receive all new engines that should allow it to match its competitors. For starters, the 2.5-liter engine is expected to be completely replaced by a smaller 1.5 inline 3 or 2 liter turbocharged inline 4 petrol engine.

This should be capable of making 200 horsepower and more than 200 lb-ft of torque. In any case, the engine would likely run in an Atkinson cycle, so it would be very efficient for its size. Many rumors suggest that it should be around 10% more efficient than the current 2.5-liter unit while adding more power and torque. The hybrid, on the other hand, might be carried over with minimal changes. We do hope for a more powerful version but this is unlikely at this point. The seven-seat version of the car, on the other hand, could get a 220+ horsepower powertrain. This has been expected for some time now and it might be the right time to offer such an engine on the RAV4.