To keep your Rav4 Hybrid in optimal mechanical condition, be mindful of the terrain and roads where you drive, as the vehicle contains complex technology beneath the body. PHOTO/ROLAND D NASASIRA
Hellen Bwengye's 2024 RAV4 Hybrid dashboard shows just 4,326 kilometres, which shows how little she has used the brand-new, five-seater vehicle. When she first began searching for a car, Bwengye had her sights set on something larger, with a raised ground clearance and smooth, comfortable performance. She also wanted a car that was cost-effective in terms of maintenance and fuel consumption. But as she continued exploring her options, her former boss convinced her to consider the RAV4 Hybrid.
“I went into the car market with an open mind,” Bwengye recalls. “After a week-long test drive offered by CFAO Mobility, I was satisfied with the vehicle. One of the standout features for me was the ample legroom, and I loved that it runs on both fuel and battery; perfect for a car its size.
Bwengye’s driving experience has significantly transformed since switching from her Toyota Harrier, which had a 2400cc engine, to a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid with a 2000cc engine. Previously, with the Harrier, a full tank of fuel was barely enough to last a week and a half to two weeks due to her driving patterns.
However, with the RAV4 Hybrid, she has dramatically reduced her fuel consumption and expenses by nearly 50 percent. A full tank of the RAV4 Hybrid now lasts about a month, thanks to its dual power source; the traditional fuel engine and the electric battery.
One of the standout benefits of the RAV4 Hybrid is its ability to effortlessly switch between fuel and electric power. When driving around the city or sitting in traffic, the car often runs in electric mode, minimising fuel consumption. The transition between fuel and battery power is smooth and efficient, with the car automatically switching based on driving conditions.
Bwengye recently drove from Kampala to Lyantonde District in southwestern Uganda and Mbarara in western Uganda, before heading back to Kampala. During the entire trip, she used just half the tank, which cost her approximately Shs160,000. This long-distance journey further demonstrated the hybrid's impressive fuel efficiency and ability to cover substantial distances on minimal fuel.
The RAV4’s dashboard is distinct from that of traditional, combustion-engine vehicles. It includes features that reflect the car's dual powertrain such as arrows indicating whether the vehicle is running on fuel or charging the battery. Red arrows indicate that the car is operating on fuel, while green arrows signify that the engine is charging the battery.
A key advantage of driving a hybrid, Bwengye explains, is the ability to monitor the battery's charge and understand how long it can sustain the vehicle’s electric driving mode. Maintaining the battery charge at around 50 percent ensures the car uses minimal fuel, maximising the hybrid's efficiency.
The car’s technology also helps Bwengye optimise her driving for better fuel economy. It displays information on a single screen, showing which driving mode; eco, power, or sport, is the most fuel-efficient at any given time. The eco mode, for example, is designed to maximise fuel savings, while power and sport modes are more performance oriented. With these features, Bwengye can easily manage her fuel consumption and enjoy a smoother, more sustainable driving experience.
Stability and handling
Although the car is equipped with a 4x4 system, which is typically great for tackling rugged terrains, Bwengye does not rely on this feature for her daily driving needs. For her, it is all about efficiency and comfort while moving from one destination to another.
On both paved and gravel roads, the driving experience is consistent, thanks to a strong suspension system that minimises the discomfort of rough roads. While potholes can still create some jolting, the car’s suspension absorbs most of the impact, making for a much smoother ride than expected.
In traffic, Bwengye appreciates the car's thoughtful design. Even when the car is in drive mode, the innovative hold button next to the gear lever offers a convenient way to prevent unnecessary wear on the brake pads. Simply press the hold button, remove your foot from the brake pedal, and the car stays put; no movement, no extra strain on the brakes. When traffic starts flowing again, all she has to do is either press the hold button or simply accelerate to resume her journey.
Service
The periodic service for your RAV4 Hybrid is currently being handled by the official Toyota distributor in Uganda, CFAO Mobility. This service is scheduled every 5,000 kilometres for the next two years.
To keep your RAV4 Hybrid in optimal mechanical condition, it is important to take a few precautions. First, be mindful of the terrain and roads where you drive, as the vehicle contains complex technology beneath the body.
A significant portion of the undercarriage is occupied by the hybrid battery, which requires careful handling to avoid damage.
Additionally, it is recommended to always use high-octane fuel to ensure the engine performs at its best. It is also essential to have the vehicle serviced by a trusted mechanic or dealership, preferably the manufacturer representative, where you can be confident in receiving genuine spare parts. This is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Lastly, never attempt to wash the engine without consulting an expert first. The RAV4’s hybrid technology is integrated with the traditional combustion engine, and improper handling or washing could lead to mechanical failure. Always seek professional advice when it comes to engine care to ensure safety and preserve the vehicle's sophisticated hybrid system.
Downsides
The RAV4’s battery has a lifespan of 10 years, which is something Bwengye prefers not to dwell on, especially considering it costs Shs25m to replace.
Another drawback is that driving the RAV4 hybrid in flooded areas is discouraged. Any contact between water and the electric battery components could cause the car’s system to malfunction or even shut it down entirely.
