Toyota has been at the forefront of hybrid vehicles for a while and is starting to use the technology and green credentials from the Prius over more of its range. The new RAV4 has been given the hybrid touch and, along with all-wheel drive, could be right up our country lane.
The one we’re taking a look at is the Excel AWD edition, a higher spec version. First off, it looks a bit futuristic. There’s an element of Toyota’s sister company Lexus in the styling, which isn’t a bad thing. I’m a fan of the deep blue paintwork (or Obsidian blue to give its official title).
Though the RAV4 has some bold angles in places, it doesn’t look over the top and has the appearance of a higher-end SUV. I quite like the overall silhouette and it’s set off nicely by the 18in alloys. Admittedly it’s quite different from the original RAV4 but it’s not hard on the eye. The angular theme continues over the bonnet and front bumper. Combined with sleek yet bold headlamps and its big grille, it looks a bit beast-like.
The clearance of the front bumper suggests that it could be a limiting factor for off-piste excursions, but with a minimum clearance of 190mm it should be able to deal with a rut or two. No clearance worries at the back — plenty of room.
Most of the workhorse bits are draped in protective plastic, but there are a few glimpses of the independent suspension and AWD running gear with a few bits of electronic trickery.
One-touch of a button reveals a decent-sized boot. Plenty of room for four-legged companions and some kit. There are a couple of dog guards available as optional extras.
Bu hikaye Shooting Times & Country dergisinin June 03, 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Shooting Times & Country dergisinin June 03, 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
United we stand
Following United Utilities' decision to end grouse shooting on its land, Lindsay Waddell asks what will happen if we ignore our vital moors
Serious matters
An old gamebook prompts a contemplation on punt-gunning
They're not always as easy as they seem
While coneys of the furry variety don't pose a problem for Blue Zulu, he's left frustrated once again by bolting bunnies of the clay sort
Debutant gundogs
There's lots to think about when it comes to making the decision about when to introduce your dog to shooting
When the going gets rough
Al Gabriel returns to the West London Shooting School to brush up on his rough shooting technique
The Field Guide To British Deer - BDS 60th Anniversary Edition
In this excerpt from the 60th anniversary edition of the BDS's Field Guide To British Deer, Charles Smith-Jones considers the noise they make
A step too far?
Simon Garnham wonders whether a new dog, a new gun and two different fields in need of protection might have been asking too much for one afternoon's work
Two bucks before breakfast
A journey from old South London to rural Hertfordshire to stalk muntjac suggests that the two aren't as far detached as they might seem
Stalking Diary
Stalkers can be a sentimental bunch, and they often carry a huge attachment to their hill
Gamekeeper
Alan Edwards believes unique, private experiences can help keepers become more competent and passionate custodians of the countryside
