Toyota Motor Corporation started in 1937 as a part of Toyota Automatic Loom Works. Even though it's known for cars, the brand is still present in the textile business. In 1957, Toyota was the first Japanese manufacturer to compete in motorsports and participating in the Round Australia Rally. Toyota believed that motorsport is a base of the car manufacturing evolution and the progression of the industry as a whole. By 1999 the company had produced its 100,000th vehicle.
One of the mind-blowing facts is that Toyota is even more popular than Coca Cola. The drink has found its way into 100 countries. Toyota cars, however, can be found in 170 countries and the brand is growing. Here are 15 surprising things we just found out about the 2020 Toyota RAV4.
15 8-Speed Electronically Controlled Transmission
In addition to a strong engine, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 got a wealth of advanced performance systems. The first one is the 8-speed electronically-controlled continuously-variable transmission (ECVT), which delivers superb control, stability and acceleration. Besides, it shifts the power efficiently, precisely and smoothly, all the way to highway speeds.
14 3 Drive Modes
We already know that the car has 3 drive modes that let you change your driving experience and make it match your style. In the Normal mode, the settings combine performance with fuel economy. Eco mode maximizes fuel efficiency by sacrificing a bit of performance. The Sport mode delivers sharp acceleration and raw power.
13 Multi-Link Rear Suspension
A multi-link suspension design features 4 arms, or links, that allow an independently-sprung wheel to combine handling and ride quality. It makes sure that your car won't flop around through corners and allows for independent movement of a wheel over large bumps. Multi-link design keeps the wheel perpendicular to the road, maximizing the tire's contact patch.
12 New Global Architecture
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 got a new platform design that the company calls "Global." The brand made the stance longer and wider to enhance handling. The car also has a stronger core that makes the ride confident and smooth. As a little bonus, the new platform provides a better view of the road.
11 2.5-Liter Dynamic Force 4-Cylinder Engine
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 delivers many advanced features for you to enjoy, especially when it comes to performance. The most important feature is the 2.5-liter dynamic force 4-cylinder engine that delivers 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The overall structure of the engine was innovated to achieve a high-level of driving performance.
10 Stop And Start Engine System
The Stop and Start Engine System helps to reduce emissions, create a quieter drive and get better MPGs. The system automatically stops the engine while the car is stopped and then restarts it when you're ready to start driving again. An icon in the Multi-Information Display will signal when the system is activated.
9 Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 is an Ultra-Low Emissions vehicle. This means that the car is 50% cleaner than the average new model-year car. You can reduce emissions even further by driving in the Eco mode. It makes the new car versatile as it can go off-roading or be a part of family outings.
8 Front-Wheel Drive
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 will be offered in XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid and Limited Hybrid models, each with a choice of all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The transmission got a flexible lockup torque-converter that delivers better efficiency at lower speeds.
The XSE Hybrid also offers a Sport-tuned independent MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabilizer bar.
7 Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive
Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, or just AWD-i, provides all-weather capability and better on-road driving dynamics. When you find yourself in a tough situation, or just need a nimble drive, the AWD-i can improve handling and traction. This system uses a 2nd independent electric engine that supplies power to rear wheels.
6 Active Cornering Assist
Active Cornering Assist is a system that gets automatically activated in understeering situations. For instance, when turning under great G-force with your foot pressed down all the way on the accelerator.
This system increases brake force to the wheels and generates yaw movement. It creates differences in driving force between left and right wheels. This way it suppresses the understeering situation.
5 Hill Start Assist Control
HAC is a safety feature that supports the vehicle while driving on steep slopes. It works in conjunction with Downhill Assist. When the car comes upon a steep hill, it can begin to slip backward. HAC prevents the car from rolling backward by taking control of the pressure applied to the brake fluid.
4 Electric Power Steering
Toyota eliminated the power steering pump and added the Electric Power Steering system that provides a 2% increase in fuel economy over other systems. Another big advantage is that it eliminates the use of fluid, therefore there is no risk of power steering wheel leaks. Besides, it reduces the weight of the car.
3 Falken All-Terrain Tires
Falken off-road tires have been chosen by Toyota as the original equipment for their new vehicle. The company selected A/T Trail 01A, size 225/60R18, 100H-rating tires. David Colletti, Falken’s Vice President, said that "based on Falken’s connection to high performance, they were encouraged to provide Toyota with a dedicated tire."
2 Blind Spot Monitor
The Blind Spot Monitor feature alerts the driver to cars in the blind spot. All you need to do to turn this system on is to press the BSM button on the dashboard. While driving, if another car is in your blind spot, the light on the side mirror will light up.
1 Adaptive Front Headlight System
When driving at high speed, it can be hard to avoid all hazards. This is especially noticeable at night. The Adaptive Front Headlight system curves the headlights to illuminate more of the road. This feature works automatically by changing the beam direction so that the lights can concentrate much of their beam off the road.