RAV4 modifications for 2013

Toyota changes look of Woodstock-built SUV

By Mark Schadenberg
WOODSTOCK -- If there is a new factory or an expansion of an existing one, it's usually easy to find a press release to pass along.
However, when the RAV4 by Toyota, which is built in Woodstock for all of North America, receives some rather significant changes in its engine and design, it's surprising that the local media seemingly receives little information.
I found some details by looking up car reviews for 2013 models.
I do feel it's important for me to include the original source of the material I post here, so I may have to edit that notation in at a later date. Sorry.
Proud owner
I happen to drive a RAV4, but mine is about four years old.
Toyota is changing how the back door (back gate) opens to be more like a swing up and therefore the spare tire will no longer be affixed to the back door.
There are other changes as well.

          ()()()()()()()()()

Automaker drops V6 engine for 2013

WOODSTOCK -- Toyota Canada has announced aggressive pricing for the new 2013 RAV4 sport utility that was introduced late last year at the LA Auto Show.

MSRP for the front-wheel drive RAV4 LE will start at $23,790 – a reduction of $1,075 compared to the base price of the 2012 model – while the better equipped XLE with front-wheel drive starts at $27,000.

Three versions also are available with Toyota‘s newly engineered all-wheel drive system: the AWD LE starting at $25,990; the AWD XLE at $29,200; and the top-of-the-line AWD Limited at $31,700.
Fuel economy improvement

All trim levels are priced below comparable vehicles from the previous model year, in part because a V6 engine no longer will be offered. Toyota is betting that consumers will opt for price and fuel economy over performance, so all 2013 RAV4s will be powered by a 176-horsepower inline-4 mated to a 6-speed automatic with sequential shift. Three drive modes are available at the touch of a button – Normal is the default mode, but the driver also can select Eco or Sport.

No Back-Door Spare Tire !

The other big news is that a liftgate finally replaces RAV4’s side-hinged rear door. That means the vehicle also loses its exterior mounted spare tire – which should make insurance companies happy. With the spare in that location, damage from rear-end collisions typically was worse for RAV4 than with compact SUVs that carry the spare under the cargo bay floor.

Other improvements include 60/40 reclining second-row seats, a new audio system with available touch-screen display, eight airbags and 2,078 litres of cargo space.

Available technology includes: rear cross traffic alert, lane departure alert, blind spot monitor, automatic high beam system and a back-up camera.

The made-in-Canada (WOODSTOCK) 2013 RAV4 models will be arriving at dealerships later this winter.

Source (For this particular item): I'm trying to find it.

Here are some more RAV4 reviews, including American viewpoints:
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1211_2013_toyota_rav4_first_look/viewall.html

http://www.autoguide.com/manufacturer/toyota/2013-toyota-rav4-review-video-2330.html

http://becarchic.com/2012/12/31/2013-toyota-rav4-worlds-first-crossover-sheds-rear-wheel-cuteness-factor/