Autonomous braking for RAV4

Toyota's RAV4 has joined the ranks of vehicles fitted with autonomous emergency braking (AEB), a feature that avoids or minimises the impact of low-speed collisions.

But AEB is only standard on top spec Cruiser versions and is optional on just the mid-range GXL variant.

In a mid-life upgrade that introduces numerous styling tweaks as well as AEB, Toyota's strong-selling mid-size SUV gains trailer sway control – across the range – new LED headlights (with daytime running lights) and interior updates that include a redesigned instrument cluster  for GXL and Cruiser models, comprising a new 4.2-inch colour multi-information display flanked by the two major instruments.

Significantly, the RAV4 is claimed to be quieter and more comfortable on the road. This is due to a rework of not just spring and shock absorber rates, but also a more-rigid rear body shell, all augmented by thicker, more extensive insulation that is claimed to reduce tyre, road and exhaust noise.

The new AEB system works via a combination of a forward-facing camera and millimeter-wave radar that detects the possibility of a collision and instructs the braking system to swing into effect at speeds up to around 30km/h.

Incorporated into the system is adaptive cruise control to help maintain a set distance to the car travelling in front, while also monitoring vehicles merging into or moving out of the lane ahead.

The sexier new look includes a larger lower grille and a revised rear bumper with redesigned LED tail lights.

Toyota will be announcing pricing details of the updated RAV4 range when it arrives in Australian dealerships in December.

Currently the RAV4 is vying for second spot in year-to-date mid-size SUV segment sales with Hyundai's iX35 (now Tucson) and Nissan's new X-Trail – all behind Mazda's class-ruling CX-5.