Why we love the all-new
Toyota’s all-new Ativ with its hybrid electric variant is set to be another grand-slam model that will dominate its segment and potentially become the country’s best-selling hybrid electric vehicle. A proper drive of one will tell you why. We look at what makes the Ativ such an amazing performer.
STYLING. The Ativ balances stately and sporty; the bold front fascia is confident and mimics its big brother Camry executive sedan, while the sloping rear makes it swoopy and stylish, hinting at some playfulness in store for drivers. The rear is particularly sharp, chiseled and very sporty.
SPACE. Step inside the Ativ and you’ll be surprised at how much interior space is available, giving you ample wiggle room for long drives. It easily fits four regular-sized adults, and even two XL sized adults up front and two regular adults at the back.
TECHNOLOGY. The Ativ comes equipped with Toyota’s latest advancements in technology, all in a compact, affordable yet highly versatile package: from the 2NR-VEX hybrid electric powertrain, the CVT transmission that drives the front wheels for maximum efficiency, to Toyota’s ADAS safety suite called Toyota Safety Sense or TSS (pre-collision warning, automatic high-beam, lane tracing assist, lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control), to its available passive safety equipment (ABS brakes, traction & stability control, hill-start assist) and of course up to six airbags (dual front, dual front side and curtain airbags).
IN-CAR ELECTRONICS. The available wide-view camera coupled with the parking sensors makes maneuvering the Ativ swiftly and confidently around tight spaces. And when you’re stuck in traffic, the Ativ features a 10.1 inch multimedia display that offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and both USB Type-A and Type-C slots up front and two Type-A slots in the back seat for your mobile devices. You can always be charged up and always connected to work.
EFFICIENCY. The 2NR-VEX inline-4 hybrid electric powertrain delivers a combined system output of 111 horsepower and 121 Newton-Meters of torque. Seems modest, until you realize that the electric motor generates 80hp and 111 Newton-Meters of torque from practically zero RPM. This easily accessible power means you rely less on the internal combustion engine as the electric motor really pulls its weight (literally). The result? With four adults and gear, an easy 22km/liter on the highway with a driver more concerned about arriving at our destination as soon as possible. An easily doable 25-28km / liter is very realistic, both on city and highway driving. More than twice as efficient compared to other similarly sized B-segment sedans. With more safety and technology features.
REFINEMENT. The Ativ’s vibe is highly refined. Sit inside and it feels safe, roomy, relaxing and also well-insulated from the outside. Wind-noise is minimal, tire noise only becoming a concern past 100kmh (hence a moot point) and the powertrain is library-quiet. All this allows you to focus on the driving without being bothered by seemingly white-noise which can cause added tension and eventual stress, wearing you out on long stints with the car.
DRIVE. A b-segment hybrid-electric sedan is hardly the sportiest car on the market; you buy it for its cost-efficiency. But aside from being roomy, efficient and versatile, the Ativ drives very well. From the urgent and responsive hybrid powertrain, to the light yet accurate steering, the excellent seating position, the strong brakes and the surprisingly well-controlled suspension, the Ativ gives you confidence to push it hard when the roads get fast, winding and undulating.
So many strengths, so much tech, and amazing versatility. All this available for the price of a regular B-segment sedan. The Ativ has democratized efficient hybrid technology with a very polished chassis.
Convinced? Head over to any one of Toyota’s 73 dealerships nationwide and check it out!
