Toyota targets increased fleet registrations with Business Editions of new RAV4

Toyota hopes the launch of two fleet-specific editions of its new RAV4 will more than triple the manufacturer's company car registrations in the SUV sector.

The model will be available in both Business Edition and Business Edition Plus trim levels when it arrives in showrooms this month.

"This strategy recognises the different dynamics that are at play in the fleet landscape," said Neil Broad, fleet and vehicle remarketing general manager for Toyota Lexus.

"Our standard business model will help drivers identify the car that has a competitive benefit-in-kind position and offers fleet-focused value for money with specification optimised for high-mileage users who spend a lot of time on the road.

"But we believe the Plus package will also appeal to those drivers who are fortunate enough to have the scope to treat themselves to extra luxury and convenience items."

The Business Edition is based on the entry-level Active grade but is fitted with cruise control, DAB radio, dual-zone air conditioning and a reversing camera as standard.

The Plus comes with LED front and rear lights, a power tailgate and keyless entry. Satellite navigation is also standard on both business models but is a £700 option on the rest of the range.

"We sold more than 2,300 business edition examples of the Avensis last year after the dual-offer idea was launched in June and, if we'd had a better supply, we could have registered significantly more than the 750 business models of the RAV4 we sold last year as part of our fleet total of 3,244 units," said Broad.

“I'm confident that our new structure will see that total rise to 1,250 sales this year of the 2.0-litre diesel version."

Toyota is also expecting to achieve similar volume with the company's first hybrid compact SUV.

In front-drive form, this 2.5-litre petrol-electric version offers a more generous equipment level, a power output of 195bhp, CO2 emissions of 115g/km  and official combined economy of 57mpg.

"We think the reversal of the removal of the 3% BIK diesel surcharge makes a RAV that achieves high power coupled with such low CO2 well worth a look for any corporation seeking to lower its footprint and offer a no compromise company car option to its staff," said Broad.