And it’s a warm welcome back to the Toyota RAV4! After claiming the class award for Medium SUV, the petrol-electric version was also an easy choice for our judges in the Hybrid category.
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There’s a huge amount of choice in Toyota NZ’s RAV4 model range. But among them all it’s the hybrid powertrain that dominates, with more than 80 per cent of sales being petrol-electric in recent times.
It's subtle, but the hybrid system comes alive around the suburbs, seamlessly switching to electric mode, all the while dropping those fuel figures and keeping quiet while doing it. But it’s also the best-performing RAV4 by far, thanks to the combined power of the combustion engine and electric motor.
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The hybrid isn’t the only RAV4 to offer AWD, but the system employed by the electrified model is especially clever: the E-Four powertrain uses only electric power for the rear axle, giving very precise control.
The bad news for prospective RAV4 hybrid buyers is that there remain huge waiting lists. The good news is that once supply frees up, Toyota NZ has added even more specification levels. Previously available in GX, GXL and Limited models, the RAV4 hybrid range has now welcomed a sporty XSE model and something that customers have been wanting all along: a petrol-electric version of the off-tarmac-optimised Adventure.
Runners Up
Honda Jazz e:HEV, Toyota Highlander hybrid
TOYOTA RAV4 HYBRID
ENGINE: 2.5-litre petrol four or 2.5 with nickel-metal hydride battery and hybrid system
POWER: 163kW (total system)/221Nm
GEARBOX: Continuously variable, AWD
ECONOMY: 4.8l/100km
PRICE RANGE: $44,990-$55,990