Toyota Corolla and RAV4 debuts

Most of the Press Day debuts were on the show floor. However, the Toyota program was in a massive space with its own runway separate from the rest of the show. Why? Because Toyota is revealing the latest versions of 2 of the highest selling vehicles in the world.

Toyota began the program by focusing on the half century history of the Corolla and proudly reminding the automotive press that it is the number 1 selling car of all time. They unveiled the new Corolla hatchback emphasizing that fun and functionality are not mutually exclusive. After doubling down on the fun factor, they focused on the new updates. The new Corolla hatchback features the latest TNGA architecture that’s shared with the Prius, C-HR and other models. Similar to other recent redesigns like the Camry and Prius, Toyota has emphasized agility with a wider stance and a lower center of gravity. The new model is also longer and features a new grille as well.

The Corolla is powered by a new 4-cylinder engine with a CVT transmission as well as a 6 speed manual which should satisfy the manual loyalists. Inside, Toyota is certainly trying to up its value quotient by providing an 8-inch touch screen and automatic climate control as standard. On the safety front, it will be the first Toyota to offer Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. This new version includes lane tracing and road sign assist. Toyota has substantially increased its focus on safety since the automatic acceleration scandal and has equipped most of its cars with drivers assistance features while other manufactures, even high-luxury makes, only provide those potentially life-saving features as options.

For the biggest debut of the Auto Show, Toyota revealed the resigned 2019 RAV4. Underscoring the importance of the RAV, they noted that it is both the number 1 selling Toyota and the number 1 selling non-pickup in America. Again, touting the history of the model as a segment starter in 1994 to being the largest industry segment. Promoting the active lifestyle led to sales of 400,000 RAV4s in 2017. Unwilling to risk the top spot, Toyota listened to its dealers to hone and improve their already successful product. In the last 5 years alone, the RAV4 has doubled its sales.

Mechanically, an all new Torque vectoring All-Wheel Drive system allows the RAV to run as a non-AWD system when not needed to improve fuel consumption. While official horsepower numbers were not provided, Toyota claims at least a 15% increase in power. The new HV (hybrid) model is now the quickest model. It is a no-compromise blend of sport and utility. Like the new Corolla hatch, the new RAV4 features Toyota safety sense 2.0. There’s a Multi-Terrain Select option for off-roading. The new RAV also uses the TNGA platform architecture with a multi-link suspension and is 57% more rigid.

The new model has a stronger nose and is more aerodynamic. Toyota relocated the side mirrors to improve forward visibility. Stylistically, the biggest improvement is the grille. The Toyota beak isn’t missed on the new RAV. The tougher, Tacoma-like grille, is intended to create a “meaner demeanor”.

Toyota stressed their prominence in automotive innovation when asked about other companies outpacing them in introducing autonomous vehicles. Toyota does not mess with safety and they want customers to be 100% comfortable with autonomous driving. They believe it is important to give the customer 100% confidence before delivering these models to market. While Toyota has been first or well ahead of other companies on other technologies in the past, they are comfortable with not necessarily being first with autonomy. Their priority is to master each level of autonomy 1 to 5. It is no different than starting with one model and then expanding the lineup. The goal is to not have any traffic accidents.

In discussing alternative fuel options, Toyota said that fuel cell still has more viability than fully electrified vehicles. However, it is good to have choices and some of these options will expand.

In terms of future vehicle production launches, the new Avalon will be in dealers in May. The Corolla Hatch will arrive late summer and the RAV4 by yearend. In regards to the popularity of the RAV4, they mentioned that it appeals to people who don’t want to be tied down by stigmas of trucks or minivans. I spoke with Jack Hollis, GM of Toyota, about the future of other models in their lineup. The current Sienna is in its 8th model year and the current Land Cruiser has been on the market since model year 2008. Hollis did not confirm upcoming replacements but said to sit tight for future announcements. The Land Cruiser, Sequoia, and Tundra share the same V8 and have been on the road for over a decade. Presumably, all 3 will be redesigned simultaneously, especially with Sequoia and Tundra sharing a platform as well. Considering how hot the Full-size truck market is, I can’t imagine Toyota sitting out with out a new model for much longer. Additionally, with the rebirth of the full-size SUV market with additional competition from the new Expedition, it’s time for Toyota to recapture market share.