KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Toyota RAV4 import units spotted while transportation
- Comes with a hybrid powertrain option
- Could be prepping for an India launch soon
Toyota has a cult standing in the Indian SUV space with the Fortuner being one of the top choices in the power hierarchy in the country. And why not? The engine is reliable, offering pretty good performance, and solid road presence, and is an efficient off-roader. But all this comes at a hefty price tag. Now, the brand might finally be going a little easy on the pockets with the Toyota RAV4 SUV, import units of which have been spotted just recently. Is it finally ready to make its India debut? Read on to find out more details here, but before moving ahead, make sure you are a part of our 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel, specifically curated for all avid petrolheads like us, to never miss out on any automotive updates.
Also Read- Skoda Kylaq Likely To Get New Mid-Spec Variant Under Rs. 10 Lakhs
Toyota RAV4: A More Affordable SUV Finally Coming To India?
Recent spy photos near Durgapur, India, have shed some light on Toyota's intentions for the Indian market. The photos reveal undisguised import units of Toyota RAV4 SUVs in transit, indicating a potential launch in the near future. The spotted models, in blue, red, and grey, appear to mirror the design of the global RAV4, suggesting Toyota may be bringing the international version to India. Although the company remains tight-lipped about specific plans regarding this SUV, it would make perfect sense to introduce a new SUV at a price range of Rs. 30 lakhs-35 lakhs.
Adding to the intrigue, the spotted RAV4 units also sported HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) badges. This confirms earlier reports suggesting Toyota's plan to introduce the hybrid version of the SUV to the Indian market. While interior spy shots are still elusive, it's reasonable to expect the Indian-spec RAV4 to mimic the features of its international counterpart including the likes of the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 8-step powered driver seat adjustment, ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, rear AC vents, and wireless phone charging, 12V power outlets, and more. The hybrid powertrain will likely be a key selling point, offering improved fuel efficiency and lower running costs.
Also Read- BYD Sealion 7 Launch: Top Highlights You Need To Know
Engine Details
The globally available Toyota RAV4 typically uses a robust 2.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a CVT transmission, generating around 218 bhp. Crucially, Toyota has integrated this engine with a hybrid system, enabling an e-4WD setup by powering the rear wheels electrically. In normal driving conditions, the RAV4 operates as a front-wheel-drive vehicle. Toyota also equips the RAV4 with a suite of advanced safety features, including vehicle stability control, a bird's eye view camera with perimeter scan, blind-spot monitoring, a pre-collision system, and eight airbags. Given that the Indian-spec RAV4 is expected to be a Completely Built Unit (CBU), it's likely that these safety features will be carried over as well.
As for its launch plans, it is not the first time that the RAV4 has been spotted in the country and the brand keeps on chalking out the plans to make its India debut from time to time. With a hybrid set-up and a place below the Fortuner, it has serious potential to capture a bigger share of the pie.
Verdict
The RAV4 has had quite a few occasions where it was almost launched in the country. A while ago, it was papped undergoing ARAI testing, which further fueled the fire to rumours of an imminent launch. The time feels just about right to introduce a new SUV where the buyers are ready to shell out a little more for the hybrids for a diesel replacement. However, any concrete launch plans still loom behind the curtains.
