The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid introduces a new top grade for 2024, becoming the latest model in Toyota’s range to offer a GR Sport version
Enjoying a styling flavour influenced by the multi-world-championship-winning Toyota Gazoo Racing, it combines sharper looks inside and out with a prestige equipment specification.
The all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid electric powertrain is unchanged, delivering a combination of high power with high efficiency. This is a vehicle with a dual DNA: one that has strong and genuine EV capabilities and which automatically switches to hybrid electric power when battery charge is depleted.
Maximum output for the full powertrain is 302bhp/225 kW – 38 per cent more than the RAV4 Hybrid – enabling 0-62mph acceleration in 6.0 seconds which is more than two seconds faster than the hybrid AWD-i model.
Exterior
The GR Sport treatment makes a strong style statement with black wheel arch trims, side mouldings and back door garnish. At the front there are more prominent fog light bezels with the same black G-mesh pattern as the new upper grille and a new front under-run finished in gunmetal grey. Discreet GR badging on the front grille and back door signifies the sportier grade.
The 19-inch black alloy wheels have a double-five-spoke design with fine bright machined pinstripe detailing.
Interior
In the cabin the sports front seats are finished in a tactile, suede-effect dark grey upholstery with synthetic leather bolsters. The headrests are embossed with the GR logo, while contrasts are struck with silver stitching on the seats, steering wheel, shift lever and silver trim detailing on the doors and steering wheel. The GR logo is also featured on the floor mats and steering wheel.
Equipment
The new model benefits from Toyota’s latest digital information package: the Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system with 10.5-inch high-definition display, a customisable 12.3-inch driver’s combimeter, and smartphone integration – features that are also shared by the 2024 Design grade. Similarly, the full RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid range adopts a more comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense package of safety and driver assistance systems, including Emergency Steering Assist and an enhanced Pre-Collision System.
The GR Sport also comes with power adjustment for the front seats, together with memory settings for the driver’s seat, a head-up display, paddle shifts, wireless mobile phone charger, a heated steering wheel, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Panoramic View Monitor as standard. Customers can upgrade their car with the option of a panoramic roof or bi-tone exterior paint finish.
This specification builds on the Design grade, which provides a power tailgate, smart entry and push-button start, a reversing camera and front parking sensors.
Performance
The new GR Sport promises a more engaging driving experience thanks to improvements to the suspension with stiffer springs and revised shock absorber settings.
Pricing and availability
The new 2024 RAV4 GR Sport Plug-in Hybrid is available to order now, price £48,990 on the road..
