The partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and Abdul Latif Jameel Company (ALJ), which goes back more than half a century, will introduce the all-new RAV4 in the Kingdom – sustaining ALJ's drive as the leading automotive dealership in the Kingdom and the biggest Toyota independent distributor in the world. Backed by a policy of the customer comes first, ALJ's stewardship of Toyota brands in Saudi Arabia is supported by a Kingdom-wide sales and service network renowned for its commitment to excellence at every level, the company said in a recent statement. The sporty new front defines RAV4's athletic presence and sophisticated strength. In a significant break with its heritage, the RAV4 will switch from its side-hinged rear door to a convenient roof-hinged liftgate with a spare tire stored under the cargo floor. RAV4's body structure will include high-strength steel to help achieve both strength and light body structure. The new RAV4's interior has a premium, sophisticated look with soft-touch accents and driver-centric controls. The driver-centric dash panel and the gauges all feature new Clear Blue illumination, which provides crisp visibility in most ambient light conditions. All steering wheels have controls for audio, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio. Driver and front passenger seats have a slim back, enhancing rear-passenger knee room while rear-row seats recline several degrees to enhance passenger comfort. The 2013 RAV4 arrives with a multitude of driver-focused features, including a ‘Sport Mode' for enhanced performance and road feel. As well as activating the Dynamic Torque Control 4WD, the new ‘Sport Mode' also modifies the RAV4's power steering, throttle and transmissions; decreasing power steering assistance, sharpening throttle response and offering higher revs and automatic gearbox management for a more dynamic, sporting driving experience. The all-new RAV4 builds on the very highest standards of occupant safety and pedestrian impact protection evolved over three generations of the compact Toyota SUV, with even higher levels of active and passive safety. The 2013 RAV4s will have Traction Control (TRC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Downhill Assist Control. – SG
