The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid is a no-compromise vehicle aimed at active young couples who put high fuel economy at the top of a priority list that also includes utility, style, versatility and capability. Available in two premium grades: XLE and Limited, the RAV4 Hybrid ushers in refreshed exterior styling that lends the vehicle a sleeker, more dynamic stance. A bolder looking front fascia seems to come alive when equipped with the available LED combo of headlights, daytime running lights and Hi-Lo Headlights. The new rocker panels sharpen the sides and tie in restyled front and rear bumpers for a more flowing profile. Available LED taillights add a premium touch.

New front and rear silver skid plate garnishes on most models, new wheel designs and a standard shark fin antenna on all grades further accent the freshened look. Capping the restyle in high style are three additions to the color palette: Silver Sky Metallic, Black Currant Metallic and Electric Storm Blue.

Power for the RAV4 hybrid combines output from a 2.5L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine and a small high-torque electric motor through its unique automatic transaxle. The all-weather capability is there, too, as both Hybrid grades come equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWD-i) as standard. A second, independent electric motor drives the rear wheels when needed to help maintain optimal traction.

The system varies power between the gasoline engine and electric motor, or combines both as needed, all seamlessly. Regenerative braking changes the electric motor to a generator that captures the kinetic energy of the still-turning wheels when the brake is applied, storing it in the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid battery pack.

A body structure that makes extensive use of high-strength steel provides a robust and stiff, yet light platform and is the foundation for the smooth ride, handling agility and cabin quietness. The rear suspension member has increased spots welds and support mounts to help enhance rigidity and reduce vibration transfer to the vehicle occupants. The MacPherson strut front suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension absorbs bumps, ruts and railroad crossings with composure. A strut tower bar links the tops of the front strut towers to the main bulkhead, helping to increase torsional rigidity. Front and rear shock absorbers and coils have been retuned to help enhance stability and increase comfort.

The easy-to-maneuver, easy-to-park RAV4 Hybrid takes up little space outside but offers cavernous space inside. There’s ample room for five adults, including plenty of cargo capacity. With the 60/40 split rear seats folded, that space is expanded. The rear seatbacks recline several degrees for added passenger comfort, and rear privacy glass is standard.

The RAV4 Hybrid Limited brings in the luxury SofTex-trimmed seats, dash and door panels. The driver gets an eight-way power seat with memory and lumbar adjustment, and the front seats are two-stage heated. Added conveniences include the Smart Key system with push button start, remote power liftgate, a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink® and SofTex-covered sliding center armrest with a console storage compartment.

Special attention was directed towards improving cabin quietness with the addition of sound insulation materials in the rear cargo area, floor pan, and side and rear doors to help reduce road noise and create a premium feel.

Wheelbase: 104.7; overall length: 181.1; width: 72.6; height: 65.9

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine – 150 hp at 5700 rpm and 152 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; MG2 permanent magnet electric motor (front wheels) - 141 hp at 650V; MGR permanent magnet electric motor (rear wheels) – 67 hp at 650V; and Sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack – 244.8V.

Transmission: electronically-controlled continuously variable (CVT-i)

EPA Fuel Economy: 34 city/31 highway

Dual front airbags, dual front seat side-impact airbags, dual head curtain roll-sensing side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, front passenger seat cushion airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, smart stop technology, engine immobilizer, daytime running lights, front fog lights, blind spot side-view mirrors, backup camera, Bluetooth hands free phone system, Smart Key System with push button engine start, navigation system and tire pressure monitoring system. Limited adds blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, HomeLink universal garage door opener, pre-collision system with Pedestrian Detection, lane departure alert with lane keep assist, automatic high beams and dynamic radar cruise control.

Optional safety features include bird’s eye view camera with perimeter scan.

Roadside Assistance: 2-year/25,000 mile,  24-hour

The base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid crossover starts from $28,370 for the XLE and $33,610 for the Limited. Destination charges add $900.