Toyota Motor PH confirms RAV4 Hybrid to be launched next month
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is continuing to expand its hybrid lineup in the country. After launching the 2022 Camry Hybrid last December, TMP has announced that they will be revealing the 2022 RAV4 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) next month.
The RAV4 HEV will serve as the brand’s second hybrid crossover after the Corolla Cross Hybrid debuted in 2020. More importantly, the upcoming launch of the RAV4 HEV will bring TMP’s total hybrid model lineup to five, adding to the Prius, Corolla Altis HEV, Corolla Cross HEV, and the Camry HEV.
According to Sherwin Chualim, TMP First Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operations, the continuous arrival of hybrid models in the country is a clear indicator that Filipinos are ready for more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly vehicles.
"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 Chualim.
Specifications for the upcoming RAV4 HEV are not yet available. However, it will likely use a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated inline-four paired to an electric motor. In other markets, the powertrain has a combined system output of 222 PS, making it more powerful than the 2.5-liter engine in the regular models. Instead of an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4 HEV uses a CVT.
More details about the upcoming RAV4 Hybrid will be revealed soon. Meanwhile, Toyota dealerships will start accepting reservations on January 17, 2022. Once available, it will have a suggested retail price of PHP 2,157,000. Compared to the top-of-the-line 2.5 LTD, the Hybrid will be more affordable by PHP 117,000.