2019 Toyota RAV4

At the 2018 New York Auto Show, Toyota pulls the wraps off its 2019 RAV4, the all-new fifth generation of the popular SUV. This time around, the RAV4 sports more aggressive styling with echoes of Toyota's angular and faceted truck lineup. In terms of size, it's just a bit shorter and wider than its predecessor. The wheelbase is also increased, but the overall length remains about the same, which means the front and rear overhangs are shorter.

Under the hood of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A new Hybrid XSE model will come later, using a continuously variable automatic transmission. The standard RAV4 has front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive (AWD) is available at additional cost. This new dynamic AWD system features a rear driveline disconnect that decouples the rear wheels when demand is low — on highways, for example — in order to improve fuel economy. The return of the Adventure trim is more than just an appearance package, too, since it features a multiterrain select system that adapts to a variety of surfaces.

The new RAV4's interior also receives a full makeover, with sharp lines that mimic the exterior. A standard 7-inch touchscreen sits atop the dash, while an 8-inch screen is part of the upgraded infotainment system that includes built-in navigation. We expect materials quality to improve and new technology features to debut as well. A digital display rearview mirror switches from a conventional mirror to a rearview monitor at the flick of a switch. Other add-ons include ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free liftgate.

All new RAV4s come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of advanced safety features. These include forward collision warning and mitigation with pedestrian detection, full-range adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist with lane trace assist, automatic high beams and a traffic sign reader. Standard creature comforts have expanded to include the latest Entune 3.0 infotainment system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Amazon Alexa integration and Apple CarPlay.

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 goes on sale in late 2018. The RAV4 XSE Hybrid model follows in early 2019.