Toyota has updated its RAV4 for the 2023 model year, adding in technology and safety enhancements to further enhance its appeal.

Production of the new RAV4 for the UK and Europe will start during Q3 2022

One of the most popular SUVs on the market, the RAV4 has sold more than 10 million units since its launch in 1994.

The current fifth-generation model arrived in 2019, marked out as the first to be built on the brand’s modular New Global Architecture platform. It also ditched conventional ICE engines for a hybrid electric and, later, its first plug-in hybrid.

The latest changes are being rolled out for both the hybrid electric and PHEV models and include Toyota’s newest multimedia system, which features a larger, 10.5-inch screen with a high-definition colour display.

It also includes cloud-based navigation with constantly updated information, plus live traffic and parking data – all navigation and multimedia data can also be accessed via Toyota’s standard four-year over-the-air ‘Smart Service’ data package.

Drivers can also use the MyT smartphone app to keep track of various vehicle information, such as driving analytics, fuel levels, warnings and to access the ‘find my car’ function. The app can also be used to book service and maintenance appointments at Toyota centres.

Smartphone integration with Android Auto and wireless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay comes as standard.

The new ‘Hey Toyota’ on-board voice agent enables drivers to carry out actions such as adjusting the climate control and is designed to understand conversational speech.

A further, optional multimedia system is also available with functions such as an embedded navigation system that will operate when no data connection is available.

New remote services come as standard and enable the driver to confirm the vehicle is secure while higher-grade models add in extra features such as remote operation of the climate control.

The new RAV4 also introduces a new digital combimeter in the driver’s display, featuring a 12.3-inch display and a range of options. It’s standard on all grades apart from the entry-level Icon model which comes with a 7-inch version of the combimeter.

Safety is also enhanced for the updated model, with new functions added to the Toyota Safety Sense systems, such as the Pre-Collision System (PCS) with new intersection support to help with safer turns at junctions, and Emergency Steering Assist.

Production of the new model for the UK and Europe will start during the third quarter of 2022.