The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid combines output from a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine and a small high-torque electric motor through its unique transaxle, delivering a combined 194 system horsepower and 206 lb-ft (279 N·m) of torque. The system varies power between the gasoline engine and electric motor, or combines both as needed, all seamlessly.

Both Hybrid grades come equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWD-i) as standard. A second, independent electric motor drives the rear wheels when needed to help maintain optimal traction.

The RAV4 Hybrid will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds (nearly one second quicker than its gasoline counterparts). Regenerative braking changes the electric motor to a generator that captures the kinetic energy of the still-turning wheels when the brake is applied, storing it in the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid battery pack.

The RAV4 Hybrid offers a choice of several driving modes:

• ECO mode optimizes throttle response and air conditioning output to help prioritize fuel economy.

• In EV mode, the RAV4 Hybrid, under certain conditions, will run solely on the electric motor for up to 0.6 miles at lower speeds (below approximately 25 mph).

• SPORT mode supports sporty driving or driving in mountainous regions.

A Hybrid System Indicator and fuel consumption indicator, located in a 4.2-inch TFT screen, helps coach the driver to operate the vehicle as economically as possible.

The 2016 RAV4 will be among the first US models to offer Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a new multi-feature advanced safety package anchored by automated pre-collision braking. TSS, which is standard on 2016 RAV4 Limited grades (gasoline and Hybrid) and available on XLE (gasoline and Hybrid) and SE grades, bundles technologies including:

• Pre-Collision System (with Forward Collision Warning and automatic emergency brake)
• Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams
• Pedestrian Pre-Collision System
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

In addition to TSS, RAV4 LE gasoline and XLE gasoline and hybrid models will feature a standard Blind Spot Mirror and the SE gasoline and Limited gasoline and hybrid grades have a standard Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The 2016 RAV4 also debuts new technologies to bolster convenience, entertainment and information. Smart Key, standard on SE and Limited (gasoline and Hybrid) grades, and a Homelink garage door opener (standard on Limited gasoline and Hybrid grades), add convenience and security. Available front and rear parking sonar helps make parking easy and safe, and now the RAV4 offers a new Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan.

This Toyota-first technology employs four cameras that are mounted on the front, the side mirrors and rear of the vehicle to project a panoramic view of the vehicle’s surroundings on the central seven-inch touch display. The system offers drivers assistance when parallel parking, and when pulling in and out of parking spaces.

The Bird’s Eye View Monitor system also debuts a Toyota-first feature called Perimeter Scan, which provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle, helping the driver to see potential obstacles.

Like every 2016 Toyota, RAV4 is also equipped with the Star Safety System that includes: Traction Control (TRAC); Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC); Brake Assist (BA); Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

Eight standard airbags include dual stage advanced driver and front passenger airbags; front seat-mounted airbags; first and second row side curtain airbags; driver knee airbag and a front passenger seat cushion airbag. Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to help support the driver’s and front passenger’s heads during certain types of rear-end collisions.

The RAV4 body structure makes extensive use of high-strength steel, providing a robust and stiff, yet light platform. The rear suspension member has increased spots welds and support mounts to help enhance rigidity and reduce vibration transfer to the vehicle occupants. The MacPherson strut front suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension let the RAV4 absorb bumps, ruts and railroad crossings. A strut tower bar links the tops of the front strut towers to the main bulkhead, helping to increase torsional rigidity.

Front and rear shock absorbers and coils have been retuned in all RAV4 grades to help enhance stability and increase comfort. The SE grade receives unique sport-tuned shock absorbers and coils for enhanced sport driving composure.

Vehicle-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion electric power steering provides precision feel and quick response.

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation.

The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles. In applicable states hybrid-related component coverage is 15 years/150,000 miles with the exception of the hybrid battery, which is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles.

The 2016 RAV4 also comes standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.