When Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) brought in the Corolla Altis hybrid back in 2019, the company said that this is the beginning of a hybrid offensive – a follow-up to its forefather, the Prius.
True enough, TMP is adding another model into its blue-badged range in the form of the Toyota RAV4 HEV. It will join the Prius, Corolla Altis, Corolla Cross, and Camry in the lineup of electrified Toyota models for the Philippine market, further adding foundation to TMP’s local hybrid push.
“The rapid succession of Toyota’s HEV model introductions in the country is an indicator that Hybrid cars are now mainstream. Filipinos are ready for energy efficient mobility options with less emissions, and Hybrids offer choices that are practical and ready to use in our existing infrastructure and road conditions,” said Sherwin Chualim, TMP’s First Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operations.
TMP didn’t provide details about the upcoming RAV HEV, though we know that we won’t be getting the plug-in version sold in other parts of the world. Of note, the non-plug-in RAV4 HEV has been in the market since 2018 and since then has become one of the world’s best-selling hybrid vehicles.
Based on the GA-K platform (member of the TNGA family), the Toyota RAV4 HEV that’s sold globally is powered by a 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle four-pot gasoline engine paired with three electric motors. The system is good for 219hp and draws electric charge from a 1.6-kWh nickel-metal hydride mounted under the rear seats. All-wheel-drive comes standard.
For fuel efficiency, the RAV4 HEV sold in the US boasts a US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rating of 17 km/l in the city, 15.7 km/l on the highway, and 16.6 km/l combined.
Visually, the RAV4 HEV shouldn’t differentiate itself too much from the rest of the range, except for its hybrid badges and blue accents on the emblems. We could also see additional color options for the model, though that’s more of speculation rather than gospel at this point.
TMP will release the full specs and details of the 2022 RAV4 HEV on its website in February. Announcements will also be in place on the company’s social media channels. Despite the scheduled arrival next month, TMP has already announced the expected retail pricing for the RAV4 HEV, which will be at P2,157,000.
Toyota dealerships will start accepting reservations starting January 17, 2022.
