(November 29, 2012) LOS ANGELES — The all-new 2013 RAV4 crossover SUV made its world debut Wednesday at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show. Toyota's fourth-generation RAV4, the world's original crossover sport utility vehicle, arrives early next year.

With a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, new six-speed transmission, two-row seating for five, and a host of available in-cabin technologies, RAV4 offers a nuanced balance of performance and all-around capability, including class-leading cargo capacity, striking design, class-leading eight standard airbags, and a compelling array of standard features. RAV4 will be available in three well-equipped grades: LE, XLE, and Limited.



For 2013, RAV4 will provide a number of powertrain technologies that help deliver an engaging driving experience.  It will feature Toyota's 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which will produce 176 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 ft. lbs. of torque at 4,100 rpm.  The optional V6 of the previous-generation RAV4 will be discontinued.

Replacing the previous four-speed automatic will be a six-speed transmission with Sequential Shift. First and second gear ratios will be optimized for around-town performance.  To keep engine revs lower at highway speeds and enhance fuel mileage, fifth and sixth gears will be overdrives.

RAV4 front-wheel-drive models have received EPA- estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 24 mpg city/31 highway, while all-wheel-drive models are EPA-estimated at 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway.  A new Eco mode is designed to promote more efficient driving thus helping to enhance fuel efficiency.

The new RAV4 will provide its active owners a more dynamic drive, with new technologies like a Sport Mode with Dynamic Torque Control AWD, enhancements in suspension performance, and optimized electric power steering.  The spring rates and the shock absorbers have been optimally tuned to help the vehicles handling characteristics.