Chevrolet Spark EV vs. Toyota RAV4

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sam

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Chevrolet Spark EV vs. Toyota RAV4, which is “the Best Debut” for 2012 LA Auto Show?

The 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV and Toyota RVA4, introduced recently ahead of the Los Angeles International Auto Show, both packs smart performance and connectivity technologies.

Performance, Handling and Efficiency
The 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV, powered by a 20-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, uses an electric motor with 130 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. Spark EV's charger allows for an 80-percent charge in just 20 minutes. A standard 220-volt plug charges the car in seven hours. On the other hand, for 2013 RVA4, it will feature Toyota's 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which will produce 176 hp at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 rpm. RVA4 does not run on electricity.

In addition, Toyota RVA4, replacing the previous four-speed automatic, will be a six-speed transmission with Sequential Shift. First and second gear ratios optimized for around-town performance. In RAV4 with AWD, Dynamic Torque Control AWD has additional benefits.

Exterior Design and Body Structure
Spark EV features a prominent closed upper grille and an automatic shutter system to reduce drag and guide airflow around the vehicle. Full-length underbody panels help reduce drag while wheel deflectors and an integrated rear spoiler carry airflow around and away from the car. It is lean and muscular design put to work aerodynamically, which helps Spark EV splice through the air with the greatest of ease.
In contrast, the new RVA4 provides external features with a progressive silhouette, a sleek-sloping roofline and an aggressive character line. In addition, RAV4 switches from its side-hinged rear door to a convenient roof-hinged lift gate with a space-saver spare tire stored under the cargo floor.

Interior Design and Packing
In Spark EV, the interior balances a flowing, spacious design with features like bright electric blue color accents; chrome and leatherette mixed with a stylish cockpit vibe complete with a motorcycle-inspired instrument cluster. The car provides 86.3 cubic feet of passenger space.
However, RAV4's dash panel provides clear blue illumination, which provides crisp visibility in most ambient light conditions, and a unified, coherent appearance at night. All RAV4's will have driver and front passenger seats with high seatbacks and a slim back to enhance rear-passenger knee room. The RAV4 driver's seat is six-way adjustable, including seat height.
Pricing
Spark is to price under $25,000 with tax incentives whereas RVA4 is to be expected in the $22,500 to $23,000 range in this contested and crowded segment of the market
 
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