Pictures of Toyota's new-look RAV4 have leaked ahead of its official debut at the Los Angeles motor show.

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Click photo at left for more leaked photos of the redesigned RAV4.

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The SUV has adopted Toyota's new corporate face and shares several design cues with the new Corolla and 86 coupe. Inside, the cabin has had a much needed makeover, adopting a similar look to the recently updated Camry and Corolla.

The steering wheel is very similar to the unit used in the new Corolla, and its bluff, upright dashboard and two-tone colour scheme are familiar - an improvement from the current drab surrounds.

Disappointingly, though, the stereo and airconditioning unit still has an aftermarket look and feel.

The leaked images show two cars with interiors finished in dark grey and cream trim. The new model is expected to come with a choice of engines, including the upgraded 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine in the current Camry and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel motor.

A hybrid version is also being built.

A six-speed transmission is expected to replace the current four-speed, which is off the pace compared with newer offerings from competitors. The clumsy side-hinged rear tailgate with the wheel mounted on the back is also gone, replaced by a door that opens upwards like a conventional hatch.

The Los Angeles Auto Show opens tomorrow (NZ time).

 

-Fairfax News Australia

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