TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) today announced the nationwide launch in Japan, via "Netz" dealers, of the new RAV4, which is a completely redesigned version of the Toyota RAV4 J and RAV4 L that have been sold, respectively, through "Netz" and "Toyota Corolla" dealers in Japan.

Photo: http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/05/image/1114.jpg

The RAV4 J and RAV4 L, launched in 1994 as small SUVs that were enjoyable to both look at and ride in, pioneered a new genre by being the first SUVs to provide the feel of a passenger vehicle.  With the launch of the second-generation vehicle in 2000, they evolved into high-performance, urban SUVs that became global models.

The new, third-generation model, developed to be a leader among SUVs for people with active lifestyles who enjoy their freedom, features refined styling that suits the urban environment while also providing maneuverability for the great outdoors.  This new SUV makes driving comfortable anywhere—on-road or off-road—allowing users to actively move about as they please.

The new RAV4 adopts a newly developed platform and incorporates a newly developed engine, transmission and suspension, along with newly developed brakes and other systems, in pursuit of basic performance that enables brisk and comfortable "moving", "turning" and "stopping", while achieving the world's highest level of safety and environmental performance in its class*1. Its interior and exterior designs combine refined taste and a statement of strength, while its easy-to-use, high-quality, interior space is roomy and comfortable. The new RAV4 is meant to meet not only the needs of SUV users, but also those of sedan and minivan drivers as well.