Redesigned SUV has more sass

Times Colonist
February 12, 2013

Alexandra Straub

The Province

Inquisitive children frequently ask: “Where do babies come from?”

Inquisitive car enthusiasts ask a similar question regarding vehicles, minus the baby part.

When it comes to the redesigned 2013 Toyota RAV4, the answer is pretty straightforward. The second bestselling vehicle in the Japanese automaker’s lineup in Canada is made on our own soil in Woodstock, Ont. The Corolla, which takes the No. 1 spot, is made there, too.

So when a group of curious journalists had the opportunity to step inside the womb of the manufacturing plant, needless to say, creation was in the making.

Aside from witnessing the miracle of life — in automotive form — the journalists could observe the test track on which these newborns romp around. It’s there to make sure that Toyota’s babies are prepared to brave various terrains with the best possible equipment.

I was more than happy to hold a RAV4’s hand while executing the tests to make sure they’re ready for the world.

But the real world isn’t confined to a test track, although the simulations help. And they’re fun.

It’s not until the compact SUVs leave the confines of a gated facility that their true mission in life begins: transporting people and goods in a vehicle with top-notch safety features and class-leading cargo room, all while sporting an all-new design on the inside and out.

It’s a tough job, but this Toyota seems ready to tackle it head-on.

With sub-zero temperatures in the heart of Ontario’s snow belt, the RAV4’s seat warmers were up to the task. The dual-zone climate control helped keep my driving partner and me toasty warm. Furthermore, on the top-of-the-line all-wheel drive (AWD) Limited trim, the French stitching really classes up the interior. So does the two-tone colour scheme, which is a feast for the eyes. And while this trim comes in at an MSRP of $31,700, there are four other RAV4s to choose from that look good and drive well.

Offering a front-wheel and all-wheel driving configuration, the RAV4 appeals to a broad audience.

Standard on all 2013 models are the redesigned and enhanced styling cues found on the inside and out. Its front end now features a sleek hood with eye-catching headlights, designed to look as though they’re glaring at you. It’s a rather aggressive feature for a once timid Toyota. I like it! Any amount of sass is always welcome in my books.

Its silhouette and rear end are easy on the eyes and the inclusion of a trunk that opens up, not out, is just fantastic.

Furthermore, the Barcelona Red Metallic exterior paint is muy caliente (that’s Spanish for very hot). It’s a very appealing hue for this spunky SUV.

The shift from a four-speed automatic to a six-speed automatic is a welcome change. Although the 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine is a carry-over from the 2012 model year, the additional two gears resuscitate a somewhat archaic transmission. That said, there’s still 176 horsepower and 172 pound feet of torque, which is sufficient for everyday driving.

Should you wish to get a little more spunk out of your journey, simply push the sport button located on the lower half of the driver-focused centre stack. There’s also an eco mode that works wonders in the daily grind of gridlock traffic.

On the road, the RAV4’s steering feels a little stiffer than before, which gives the driver a better grip on the vehicle. It’s not strenuous on the arms, but certainly made me experience a more engaged sensation.

The simplicity of the driver’s instrument cluster also earns points with me. Numbering is very visible without being too over-the-top. Gauges and buttons are appropriately sized and there’s no mistaking what function does what. All in all, it’s an inviting atmosphere that I felt comfortable in.

While a tad of wind noise made its way into the cabin at highway speeds, turning on the stereo system eases any woes.

For families or those who lead active lifestyles, or anyone who needs a good amount of cargo capacity, there’s 2,078 litres available with the rear seats folded flat, along with 1,087 litres with the rear seats up. There’s also a 680 kg (1,500 lbs.) towing capacity in case you need additional space to haul your gear.

When it comes to pricing, expect more for less. The base 2013 Toyota RAV4 FWD LE trim has an MSRP of $23,790, a $1,075 reduction from the outgoing model.

It comes with all the Toyota STAR safety features, great new styling and the pep that it needs to compete within the segment.