2016 RAV4 Hybrid joins growing roster of hybrid Toyotas

Toyota is expanding its electrified lineup in Canada with the addition of the RAV4 Hybrid for the 2016 model year.

The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid joins six other hybrid or plug-in hybrid models in Toyota's Canadian lineup, and uses a Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive that has been "uniquely optimized" for the compact SUV.

Powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine and electric motors at each axle, the RAV4 Hybrid makes a combined 194 horsepower and 206 lb.-ft. of torque.

That power is put to all four wheels through a continuously variable transmission.

Fuel economy numbers provided by Toyota claim the RAV4 Hybrid burns 6.9 L/100 km city and 7.6 L/100 km highway, the latter of which is the same as the given numbers for front-wheel drive, gas-powered RAV4s.

The city fuel economy is more than 3 L/100 km better than gas-powered versions of the popular compact crossover.

With two trim levels available, the RAV4 Hybrid starts at $34,465—about the same price as an all-wheel drive RAV4 SE with the 2.5-litre four-cylinder under the hood.

That model, the XLE, features dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, tinted windows, push-button start and a power tailgate.

The $38,265 RAV4 Hybrid Limited adds a host of standard equipment, including a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a backup camera, leather seating and LED exterior lighting.

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