The introduction of diesel power for the new-generation Toyota RAV4 has led to a sales surge that has exceeded the company's expectations. RAV4 variants fitted with Toyota's 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine have accounted for almost 30 per cent of the new model's total sales compared with the long term forecast of 20 per cent. The diesel is available in all-wheel drive (AWD) guise only and has been responsible for almost half of the new RAV4's AWD sales - 46 per cent. Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the figures demonstrated the appeal of the turbo-diesel engine for RAV4 customers wanting both performance and fuel economy.
"Diesel SUV sales rose 37 per cent last year, so the introduction of the RAV4 turbo-diesel has enabled Toyota to compete for the first time in this growth area of the medium SUV segment," Mr Cramb said. "Even better, Toyota Motor Corporation has just approved an increase in the RAV4 diesel's official braked towing capacity to 1,000kg* from July production. "Our engineers here in Australia have worked closely with their counterparts in Japan to secure this increase. "This change can only broaden the RAV4's overall appeal. "Dealers are reporting that RAV4 buyers have been particularly attracted to the new model's dynamic exterior design, describing it as 'stylish and contemporary'," Mr Cramb said.
"Customers say they particularly like the new tailgate that opens upwards and the relocation of the spare wheel and tyre from the back door to under the cargo floor. "They have also commented on RAV4's more dynamic drive with new technologies such as the Dynamic Torque Control AWD and enhancements in suspension performance." Mr Cramb said Toyota had increased its supply of diesel variants following early reports from dealers that demand was likely to be higher than expected. He said dealers were also selling a richer model mix than planned, with top-spec Cruiser AWD variants accounting for 19 per cent of sales - almost double the level expected.
Mid-range GXL was running at almost 40 per cent - about 10 per cent higher than forecast. Entry-level GX was also nudging 40 per cent compared with early expectations it would account for at least 60 per cent of total sales. Turbo-diesel RAV4 variants are listed from $35,490^ - a keener price than most diesel rivals in its segment. The overall range starts from $28,490^ for the two-wheel drive 2.0-litre petrol GX manual. RAV4 is covered by the capped-price Toyota Service Advantage at a maximum of $170 per service^^.
*Towing capacity subject to regulatory requirements, towbar design, vehicle design and towing equipment limitations. ^Manufacturer's list price is provided for media purposes only and does not include statutory charges or other on-road costs. ^^Maximum payable for standard scheduled logbook servicing (normal operating conditions) for 3 years or 60,000km (whichever occurs first) (up to the first 6 services). Excludes government & rental vehicles. Contact your Toyota dealer or go to toyota.com.au/advantage for other exclusions, eligibility and full details.
