TOYOTA RAV4 PRESS KIT

 

CONTENTS

1. Setting the standard again
2. New RAV4 compact SUV- maintaining the success
3. Styling- quality and refinement
4. VVT-i power trains for performance and economy
5. Improved suspension and better handling
6. Enhanced safety and environmental features

 

1) Setting a new standard

Distinctly different three-door and five door models feature a dynamic and sophisticated exterior styling

All-new 2.0 litre and 1.8 litre engines with Variable Valve Timing- intelligent (VVT-i) technology for enhanced performance and efficiency

Enhanced all-independent suspension further improves on current model’s class-leading handling and ride

Dramatic new interior gives more space, more style and more flexibility

Lighter, faster and more economical, with still greater refinement and Toyota premium build quality

When in 1994, a compact and stylish sport-utility vehicle entered the market place, it created a new segment, adding fun and style to the practical performance of a compact 4x4 for both on-road and off-road use. That vehicle, the original Toyota RAV4, has been both a style icon and a worldwide market leader ever since.

Unveiled at the Geneva Auto Salon 2000, the new Toyota RAV4 takes over from its predecessor as the leader in its class. The new RAV4 develops the bold and unique styling of the original model while maintaining its ease of driving and compact dimensions. It draws styling cues from the original model, but has a more rounded appearance with prominent flared wheel arches, trademark Toyota grille and more prominent front headlamps adding to the distinctive and stylish appearance of the new RAV4.

The sophisticated new exterior covers a wide range of new interior, powertrain and suspension developments that create a level of refinement unmatched in the small off-road class. The all-new 2-litre 16-valve DOHC in-line four cylinder engine developed for the RAV4 features VVT-i, Variable Valve Timing-intelligent technology and a big bore /long port intake manifold to offer class-leading performance, quietness, fuel economy and clean emissions.

The transversely-mounted unit develops 110kW @ 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 192 Nm @ 4,000 rpm. It drives through a choice of either 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic featuring Super ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission), to a full time 4WD system which provides optimum handling and stability.

For the first time, a 1.8-litre variant will be offered, featuring a 16-valve DOHC engine with VVT-i, Variable Valve Timing-intelligent, developing 92 kW @ 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 161 Nm @ 4,200 rpm. This powertrain will be offered with a five speed manual gearbox and a 4x2 transmission driving the front wheels, to offer a attracting a yet wider circle of new RAV4 owners especially the young.

Excellent acceleration and performance is a feature of both new RAV4 models, which have the best power-to-ratio in their class. This is in line with Toyota’s ‘intelligent engineering’ philosophy of offering customers better performance, better fuel economy and lower harmful emissions.

The fun-to-drive characteristics of the new RAV4 are ensured by the uprating of the all-independent suspension system to offer even higher levels of agility, handling and ride quality, all areas in which the original RAV4 was already class leading.

In both its three- and five-door variants, the new RAV4 offers more head, shoulder and leg room for drivers and passengers, as well greatly improved luggage capacity. This has been achieved by improving interior height and width and by lengthening the wheelbase, but maintaining the RAV4’s popular compact exterior dimensions.

The interior design of the new RAV4 is also more flexible, offering MPV-type versatility with rear seats designed to independently slide backwards, forwards, fold, tumble or be removed. New standards of interior materials, design and fitting further enhance the ‘quality’ feel of the interior, while wind noise, road noise and aerodynamics have all been improved to give the RAV4 the sound and feel of a premium quality passenger car.

“The original RAV4 was the pioneer of the concept of compact SUVs. In the development of the new RAV4, I placed an emphasis on strengthening that image” said Mr. H. Ikehata, Chief Engineer of the RAV4 project team at Toyota Vehicle Development Centre III. “At the same time I wanted to develop a vehicle that provides an unshakeable product appeal as the new leader of small SUVs.

“First of all, the unique exterior style of the current RAV4 with large-diameter tyres and a short overhang, has been further evolved to a more stylish and rugged look. Meanwhile, the interior has been dramatically improved in both quality and openness.

“A major increase in cabin space has been combined with multi-function rear seats and ample small storage compartments to further the utility functions of the SUV, but the sporty image of the RAV4 has been preserved, creating a design that appeals to the younger generation.

“Thirdly, the RAV4’s dynamic performance, interior noise levels and fuel economy have been dramatically improved to achieve a level of performance that leaves competitor vehicles behind. As a result, a ride and comfort similar to a passenger car have been achieved. Just as the current model RAV4 became the pioneer of small SUVs, the new RAV4 is a highly attractive vehicle that is destined to become the trend leader of the next generation of small SUVs.”

 

2) New RAV4 compact SUV- maintaining the success

• The first compact SUV and once again setting the standard others must follow
• RAV4 ruggedness with more performance
• New levels of versatility, sophistication and maturity
• Three-door, five-door and 4x2 models offer choice and flexibility for all customers

The arrival of the Toyota RAV4 in 1994 revolutionised the small off-road, or sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment. By bringing an urban look to the off-road sector and adding previously unheard of on-road performance, Toyota again demonstrated its ability to innovate in car design, creating an important niche market.

RAV4 brought a sense of innovation to the compact 4x4 sector, taking the product emphasis away from pure off-road capability towards a balance with on-road motoring. It appealed to a new generation of 4x4 users.

“The original RAV4 in 1994 created and led a large world market which has since become the target of many competitor models” said Mr. M. Tanaka, Division General Manager, Overseas Planning Division of Toyota. “Even now the unique styling of RAV4 continues to receive the support of many customers world-wide.”

“The new RAV4 has further evolved that innovative concept to combine the fun of driving, the joy of riding and uniqueness that makes the range so popular, with the multi-performance functions required by the wide range of users who are attracted to the model. It also incorporates the legendary Toyota levels of quality and reliability, to create a vehicle that demonstrates the new standard in small SUVs for the new 21^st Century”.

By offering increased versatility, refinement and style, the new RAV4 maintains some of its original ‘fun and fashion’ elements but moves on to reflect the wide-ranging and increasingly sophisticated and mature breadth of customer base that the outgoing model has attracted to the compact SUV category. A key strength of the RAV4 is that its line-up range meets the wide range of activities and lifestyles, demanded by this varied customer base.

The stylish and sporty three-door compact model is ideal for singles and young couples and continues to offer the ease of driving and parking that made the previous variant such a success. The five-door model is perfect for those with families or who want a lot of extra room to do more with their RAV4. They will particularly appreciate the additional space and versatility offered by the new model. The all-new 1.8 litre, 4x2 model offers a new level to RAV4 motoring, offering all the refinement and fun associated with the model.

Fun, was traditionally one of the first descriptions to be used by owners and drivers of existing RAV4s. This element has been maintained in the creation of the more mature and sophisticated new model. The use of VVT-i technology in both 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engines delivers class-leading performance along with class-leading economy. The best in class power-to-weight ratio makes for even better responsiveness, while improved sporty handling from the all-independent suspension gives better manoeuvrability around town and on the road, but it is just as good off road too.

RAV4 has been a key brand-building model in Toyota’s product line up, attracting new customers to the marque. The new RAV4 is set to play a key role in shaping the Toyota brand in 2000, as well as setting the new standard in small SUVs for the 21^st Century.

 

3) Styling - quality and refinement

• Innovative new styling, based on cues from original RAV4 model
• Distinctively different body styles for three-door and five-door models
• Dramatic new interior appeals to both touch and sight
• Increased head, leg and shoulder room for drivers and passengers
• MPV-style versatility thanks to sliding, tumbling and removable rear seats

Exterior styling

The new RAV4 draws on the styling cues of the original model. Presenting an exterior which combines a dynamic, innovative, bold and stylish ruggedness in its use of short overhangs and distinctive 16” diameter wheels, with more sophisticated style created by the absence of embellishments and a distinctive side character line which features a sliced-surface look.

The front-end styling is distinguished by a keynote Toyota trapezoidal radiator grille, front combination lights featuring multi-reflectors and a deep front bumper which provides an appropriate volume to balance the solid presence of the design. The bumper also features a distinctive and stylish lower air intake, the shape of which is integrated with the foglights.

The RAV4 retains its distinctive forward-poised look with a dynamic and powerful form continued through both models. This is achieved by a contrast created by the profile of the front and rear wings and the distinctive side character line, along with prominent flared wheel arches. The rising rear waistline creates a sense of motion and purpose, with distinctive rear quarter panels being a major feature.

An innovative side-view has been achieved on the five-door model by the creation of an arch-shaped roof line fully integrating the overall profile. A further distinguishing feature is the spoiler-shaped roof end.

The three-door model has been designed to be distinctly different from the five-door model. Features include a curvaceous-shaped rear wing line and the wrapping of the quarter windows around the rear of the vehicle to hide the C-pillar, achieving a more sporty, lively and innovative style.

At the rear of the new RAV4, the widened cabin and the use of rear lights that wrap around the sides of the vehicle enhance the feeling of stability. A further feature of interest is the convex shape of the back door ‘garnish’, which integrates with the rear-mounted spare wheel and tyre.

The new RAV4 utilises a similar unitary body construction to its predecessor, designed to achieve both high rigidity and safety. This is further achieved by the use of high strength sheet steel which allows the combination of structural rigidity with a lightweight body structure.

The new designs of five-spoke 16” aluminium wheel have been developed to express power and nimbleness, giving a hint of the RAV4’s exciting and dynamic driving capabilities. They are matched to 215/70R16 (optional 235/60R16) tyres with tread patterns optimised to combine low rolling resistance and road noise, with excellent driving stability and a comfortable road ride.

New, brighter, exterior colours will be available on the new RAV4. These stem from the use of new brightening materials in the ecologically-friendly water-based paints, the use of brushed-up basic colours and pure character colours. These colour concepts include :

• White
• Silver Metallic
• Black
• Red Mica Metallic
• Champagne Metallic
• Dark Green Mica Metallic
• Blue Mica
• Blue Metallic

These exterior colours are offered with the choice of matching interior colours.

Interior styling

In addition to generating more space and offering a greater versatility of potential configurations, key aims in the design of the interior of the new RAV4 were to create a dramatic interior that appeals to both touch and sight.

The instrument panel area achieves an elegant robust look through the functional arrangement of the air vents, audio unit and the air conditioning unit in the centre cluster and the use of bold metallic inserts (where appropriate).

The main instruments are situated ahead of the driver in a combination meter display, featuring three analogue instruments; speedometer, tachometer and multi-function display, each beautifully styled. All utilise dark characters on a white background, with the tachometer mounted centrally and above the other two, which along with the change from green illumination in the previous model to amber, signify the sporty and robust nature of the new RAV4.

The use of metallic rings is also consistently applied in the surrounds for the circular side air vents at each end of the dashboard, while the hornpad of the three-spoke sports steering wheel with airbag, also utilises a metallic ring to express visual freshness and sportiness. A steering column with tilt mechanism is provided on all models to allow the driver to attain the optimum driving position and the column also contains an energy-absorbing mechanism to lessen injury in the event of an accident.

The door trims feature a boomerang-shaped graphic motif, accommodating a speaker grille. This along with the continued use of metallic colours and dimple finish on the door grip, further accentuates the atmosphere of sportiness and visual freshness of the RAV4 interior.

Flexible seating

The seats in the new RAV4 have been optimised to enhance their size, comfort and quality. The front seats feature both a revised shape and an increased sliding range, in addition to height adjustment for the driver seat. The seats have also been designed to incorporate the WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept, which holds the body posture in position to dampen the impact on an occupant’s neck in a low-speed rear-end collision.

The innovative design of the rear seats offers new levels of flexibility. Rear seats can now be reclined and have a seat-slide facility to increase cargo space by a further 150mm.

The rear seats are also designed to fold and tumble forwards and a new feature is that the seats can now be removed completely in order to accommodate larger luggage items.

New seat covering materials have been designed to enhance the vehicle’s innovative interior appearance. They are available in two types of fabric and in genuine leather.

Noise reduction

The reduction of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) has been a priority in the interior design of the new RAV4. Sound insulation materials inside the doors minimise any potential resonance while the vehicle is on the move, while a 15mm-thick layer of ecologically-friendly RSPP (Recycled Sound Proof Product) formed from recycled shredder dust, is used beneath the floor to reduce noise and vibration.

Attention to detail has long been a keynote of Toyota quality. The storage of small items and oddments is a typical example. Ten storage areas or assistance items are available on RAV4 models.

1. Cup Holder. Two standard holders are available front and rear.
2. Small centre dash storage for cards and coins
3. Door trim pockets for storing maps/papers
4. Front door trim sub pocket (3 door) for items such as small umbrellas
5. Rear door trim pockets (5 door). Partitioned into two areas to hold large and small items.
6. New pocket in back door trim. Ideal for storing spare maps
7. Convenience hook in luggage area. Holds a shopping bag upright.
8. Box at side of luggage area. Useful for holding a First Aid kit
9. Triangular emergency sign storage. Under luggage area floor (5 door)
10. Sunglasses case in overhead console

The optional integral FM/AM radio Cassette (CD Player ) features a 4 speaker system increased in power from 30W to 34W (in combination with CD Player) to improve audio quality. The face of the audio unit has been increased to 200mm to improve its ease of use while the radio display colour is amber to match the instrument lighting.

 

4) VVT-i power trains for performance and economy

Choice of engines all featuring VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent) technology, to optimise torque, power and efficiency

2.0-litre engine developing 110kW @ 6,000 rpm and 192 Nm @ 4,000 rpm. Offered with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox and full time 4WD system.

1.8-litre engine developing 92 kW @ 6,000 rpm and 161 Nm @ 4,200 rpm. Offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 4x2 transmission.

Outstanding power-to-weight ratio for optimum performance, acceleration and economy.

Improved quietness, serviceability and lower exhaust gas emissions.

Engine

Both the 2.0-litre and 1.8-litre engines used in the new Toyota RAV4 are in-line, four cylinder, 16-valve power units, featuring double overhead camshafts and the VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent) system which improves torque in all speed ranges.

The system controls the inlet camshaft within a wide range (50%) of the crankshaft angle, adjusting the timing to suit engine rev and load conditions fed to it via the engine ECU. It optimises torque and economy in all engine speed ranges and ensures reduced exhaust emissions. With the aid of a new type of fuel injector and precision control of the system by an air-fuel ratio sensor, both the new engines meet the latest EU Step III exhaust gas emission regulations.

The 1998cc engine (codenamed 1AZ-FE) has a bore and stroke of 86.0 x 86.0mm and features a long-port, large bore inlet manifold to improve the volumetric efficiency of the intake air and the angle of the intake and exhaust valves allows a very compact combustion chamber. By increasing inlet efficiency in this manner, greater combustion efficiency is attained. This contributes to the class-leading power output of 110kW @ 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 192 Nm @ 4,000 rpm. Fuel consumption on the combined Euro cycle is 8.8 litres/100km (9.3 for the A/T). The engine also boasts excellent acceleration figures: 0-100km/h in 10.6 seconds (10.8 for the A/T), whilst the car reaches a top speed of 185km/h (175 for the A/T)

The 1794cc engine (code named 1ZZ-FE) has a bore and stroke of 79.0 x 91.5mm and also features an optimised inlet tract and combustion chamber to develop 92 kW @ 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 161 Nm @ 4,200 rpm. On the combined cycle, the 1.8 engine offers a fuel-consumption of 7.4 litres/100km. 100km/h which is reached after just 12.2 seconds, and the top speed is 175 km/h.

Weight reduction and compactness are features of both engines, contributing to RAV4’s class leading power to weight ratio. Both engines utilise an aluminium cylinder block whose rigidity has been improved by reinforcement. Further weight reduction is facilitated by the use of lightweight plastic intake manifolds and in the case of the 2-litre engine, a magnesium alloy cylinder head cover.

The added rigidity of the engine block significantly reduces the radiated sound and vibration, contributing to the increased refinement of the new RAV4. This is also achieved by reducing the front and rear overhang of the crankshaft to reduce bending vibration, by improved coupling rigidity of the engine and transmission, and by improved mounting rigidity of the ancillary equipment.

Improved serviceability on the new engines is ensured by the adoption of a DIS (Direct Ignition System) which makes ignition timing adjustment unnecessary and the use of long-life, iridium-tipped sparking plugs. A timing chain is used for camshaft drive, offering maintenance-free operation.

A serpentine belt system has been adopted to drive all ancillaries, featuring automatic adjustment which makes belt tension adjustment unnecessary. The oil-level gauge has been positioned in the front of the vehicle, to allow the oil level to be checked easily.

Transmission

Three types of drivetrain are available on the new RAV4. The 2-litre model offers choice of either 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic featuring Super ECT, driving a Full Time 4WD system which provides 50/50 torque distribution to the front and rear for optimum handling and stability.

Power from the transversely-mounted engine is fed from the transaxle on the left side of the vehicle to a transfer box behind the power unit which contains a simple, compact and highly rigid centre differential and viscous coupling.

A Torsen limited-slip differential is also available as an option on the 2-litre model. This improves the vehicle’s standing start acceleration performance and stability in normal driving conditions, adding further to the sporting feel of the RAV4’s handling.

The manual five-speed transaxle used in the new 2-litre RAV4 is a development of the unit used in the current model. It features revised ratios to take advantage of the increased torque developed by the new engine, lighter weight and improved gearshift feel with a shorter lever throw.

The four-speed Super ECT offered in the 2-litre RAV4, is a new-generation automotive transaxle that uses Toyota’s latest transmission technology to achieve a high level of response and smooth shifting. The latest low-friction technology is also used, to realise a dramatic improvement in fuel economy.

The 1.8-litre variant, which is being offered for the first time, features a five-speed manual gearbox and a 4x2 transmission driving the front wheels. It has revised ratios to maximise engine performance, a lighter weight and improved gearshift feel with a shorter lever throw.

To improve ease of use, all new RAV4 models have the gearshift lever and parking brake lever, side-by-side on the low console in the centre of the vehicle.

Improved suspension and better handling

• MacPherson strut-type front suspension with negative camber and

anti-roll stabiliser bar.

• Longer stroke, double wishbone rear suspension with anti-roll stabiliser bar.
• Power steering on all models features compact and lightweight hydraulics to aid energy efficiency.
• 15-inch ventilated front disc brakes on all models. Rear discs, ABS and EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) optional on 3-door, standard on 5-door models.
• 16-inch alloy wheels enhance styling and fun-to-drive handling.

The original RAV4 set new standards in SUV ride and handling, often being favourably compared with sports hatchbacks. The new RAV4 takes the standard another step higher, upgrading the suspension systems successfully used by its predecessor with particular attention paid to wheel alignment, bushing and spring rates, while the suspension travel and damping have been enhanced to further improve the vehicle’s stability and ride comfort.

Additional refinements also include pipe-shaped reinforcements to the steel front subframes to which the suspension is mounted. This greater rigidity aids vehicle manoeuvrability and stability

The new RAV4 utilises MacPherson strut-type suspension and L-shaped lower arms for the front wheels. The design has been further enhanced by the use of low-pressure N₂ gas-filled shock absorbers and an anti-roll stabiliser bar, to further improve ride and handling. The front suspension additionally features a small amount of negative camber, to assist in developing front end grip while turning and realise excellent cornering performance.

A double-wishbone suspension with stamped steel trailing arms is again used at the rear of the RAV4. The amount of available movement has been increased by increasing the length of the suspension arms, ensuring both added on-road ride comfort and excellent rough-road driveability. The coil spring and shock absorber are located separately, which enables the RAV4’s rear floor to be lowered to provide ample interior space.

As at the front of the car, careful development of suspension geometry and wheel alignment ensures the optimal use of bushing materials and design to provide the highest levels of controllability, stability and ride comfort. Particular effort was paid to ensuring the minimum of toe variation during suspension bump and rebound.

The upper and lower rear suspension arms, along with the rear stabiliser bar are made from hollow bars. This saves both unsprung weight to enhance suspension performance and overall weight to aid driveability and fuel economy.

The new RAV4 features responsive rack and pinion steering, assisted by engine revolution-sensing power assistance. This is driven by a compact and lightweight vane pump, which along with a similarly lightweight plastic reservoir tank further reduces weight and aids overall driveability and fuel economy.

All new RAV4 models feature stepless tilt adjustment of the steering column to achieve the optimum driving position. The column additionally incorporates an energy absorbing mechanism and breakaway brackets to reduce the chance of intrusion into the passenger area in the event of a collision.

The front brakes on all RAV4 models utilise 15-inch ventilated discs to provide excellent braking performance, both in maximum rate braking and repetitive braking cycles. Pedal pressures are reduced by the use of an advanced brake booster, which incorporates the master cylinder as a part of the booster structure to achieve a single compact unit situated at the rear of the engine bay.

The rear brakes use automatically adjusting 9-inch trailing-leading shoe drums as standard equipment on the three-door model. 16-inch solid rear disc brakes are available as an option on the 3-door and are standard on the five-door model, combined with ABS anti-lock braking and EBD (electronic brake force distribution) control.

The EBD control utilises ABS to electronically ensure the correct brake force distribution between the front and rear wheels, in accordance with driving conditions. In addition during cornering and braking, it also controls the brake forces of right and left wheels, helping to maintain vehicle stability. The ABS system in the four wheel drive version is equipped with a deceleration sensor. Non-ABS vehicles are fitted with a load-sensitive pressure relief valve, to minimise the risk of premature wheel locking.

The newly designed 16-inch aluminium wheels and full-wheel caps each feature distinctive five-spoke designs which complement both the stance and styling of the new RAV4. 215/70R16 tyres are the standard fitment for all models, with 235/60R16 available as an option.

 

5) Enhanced safety and environmental features

• Unitary construction with impact absorbing structures for front and side collision protection.
• Passenger and driver Safety Restraint System (SRS) airbags, pre-tensioned front seat belts with force limiters and head impact protection structure.
• Door locking with wireless remote control system and key transponder engine immobiliser system aid security.
• Increased use of recyclable thermoplastic resins and recycled materials.
• Reduced use of items that exert a load on the environment.

A key part of the design of the new RAV4 has been dedicated to maximising the safety and security of its occupants and to ensuring that the vehicle can be built and used with the minimum negative effect on the environment.

Safety

The light yet strong unitary body construction, along with excellent visibility and class-leading manoeuvrability and handling, provide a high level of active safety. However the same structure also offers a maximum of protection for its occupants in the event of an accident.

The front and rear sections of the RAV4 body have been made crushable to facilitate the absorption of the energy of an impact, while the occupants’ living space is securely protected by a high-strength cabin structure.

In addition to complying with the European collision safety requirements for frontal offset collision, this structure ensures an occupant protection performance which meets Toyota’s own, highly stringent targets.

In the event of secondary collision between the occupants and the vehicle interior during the course of an accident, impact-dampening brackets and plastic ribs are provided in the front and centre pillars and the roof side rails to lessen the effect of any impact to occupants’ heads.

Dual SRS (Safety Restraint System) airbags are fitted to all RAV4 models and will activate in response to a strong frontal impact. A pressure switch will also simultaneously shut down the car’s fuel injection pump.

The front seat belts utilise a pretensioner mechanism which instantly retracts the seat belt to further improve its effectiveness in restraining the occupant during an accident. A force limiter mechanism is also utilised which allows the belt to progressively extend if the force on the occupant is greater than a prescribed amount. This decreases the risk of injury to the occupant’s chest area.

The front seats have also been designed to incorporate the WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept, which holds the body posture in position to dampen the impact on an occupant’s neck in a low-speed rear-end collision. All rear seats feature belts for up to three passengers along with head restraints and recline lock mechanisms to provide enhanced protection.

Security

The new RAV4 offers enhanced security with a wireless door lock remote control system featuring a key-integrated transmitter (standard on the 5-door). Additional confidence in the correct functioning is created by the system flashing the hazard lamps and illuminating the interior dome lamp when the locking and unlocking functions are successfully completed.

The locking system is integrated with an engine-immobiliser theft-deterrent system which disables the engine unless it is started using the ignition key with an ID code that matches the pre-registered code in the vehicle.

The system uses a transponder chip embedded in the grip of the ignition key. Only when the coil located around the ignition lock cylinder receives the signal from the key and correctly matches it with the code stored in the car’s ECU, can the engine be started and the car driven away.

Environment

The new RAV4, in addition to utilising its class leading power to weight ratio to offer outstanding fuel economy and its new generation of VVT-i engines to meet the most stringent emissions requirements, is also designed to minimise the effect on our environment in its choice of materials during build and ultimately, at the end of its life.

A number of components in the structure and trim of the RAV4 are produced from recycled materials and are designed to subsequently be recycled again in the future. For example much of the vehicle’s class-leading quietness can be attributed to a 15mm-thick layer of ecologically-friendly RSPP (Recycled Sound Proof Product) formed from recycled shredder dust, which is used beneath the floor carpet to reduce noise and vibration.

The majority of the interior mouldings and the large front and rear exterior bumper mouldings are manufactured from TSOP (Toyota Super Olefin Polymer). This is a specially developed type of thermoplastic resin material that excels in its recyclability.

Equally important is Toyota’s commitment to reducing the use of materials that exert a load on the environment. In areas such as the radiator, wiring harness film and battery cable terminals, Toyota is a leader in promoting the changeover to parts that do not use lead.

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