These renderings preview what we might see from the 2013 Toyota RAV4, which should join newly redesigned vehicles like the 2013 Venza and 2012 Camry in featuring a stretched grille connecting refreshed headlights. New wheel options will freshen the profile view, but it’s inside compact crossover customers should be in for a major update. While the 2012 Toyota RAV4 already offers the automaker’s connectivity system, Entune, the redone 2013 model will showcase the system in an interior with improved materials.
What’s unclear at this point is whether the RAV4′s third row of seating will remain on the options list. The Ford Escape and Honda CR-V — two class leaders by volume — make do without it, though a third row could distinguish the Toyota from others in the class.
Otherwise, expect minor tweaks to the carryover platform. Currently, a 2012 RAV4 with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is good for 179 hp at 6000 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque…and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. With a more modern transmission, the 2013 RAV4 should easily cross 30 mpg highway in EPA testing; the 2012 model in front-drive form is rated 22/28 mpg city/highway.
The future of a potential 2013 Toyota RAV4 hybrid model is uncertain. One source suggests such a model will debut this fall alongside the regular 2013 RAV4 while another wonders why Toyota would debut a RAV4 hybrid before a Venza hybrid, which could command higher prices. Until we get official details on the 2013 Toyota RAV4, however, take a closer look at these renderings and let us know what you want to see from the revised RAV4 crossover.
