Although the interior has a higher quality feel than the previous RAV4, it’s still not really the last word in luxury or ambience. Nonetheless, it’s a comfortable and well laid out place to be.

The dashboard is divided into upper and lower beams, with a central cluster of controls housed within a plastic console while there’s a rather dubious looking mock carbonfibre finish for the gearlever surround and door switches.

All the switchgear is logical and simple to use and the instruments are easy to read.

Invincible trim derivatives get smart-looking and comfortable leather sports seats (which can also be specified as an option on lower trim levels) along with a leather finish on top of the upper dashboard beam.

To help the driver feel more at one with the car, the driver’s seat can be lowered by 15mm further than before. Steering wheel reach adjustment has been increased by 38mm too so finding a comfortable driving position is a quick and easy task, made even simpler in Invincible models which come with electrical adjustment for the driver’s seat as standard.

Toyota RAV4 comfort levels have been improved for this generation.

The driver’s seat and steering wheel have both been given a greater range of adjustment so it’s easier to find a comfortable driving position, and a longer wheelbase means rear passengers benefit from a little more space than before.

Invincible models come with very comfortable heated leather seats and the driver’s seat is fully electrically adjustable.

Although the car does feel quite wide on the road, the view ahead is excellent thanks to the high seating position. The windscreen pillars have been made thinner than before and moved outwards slightly, which has also helped visibility.

Improved aerodynamics over the previous model mean wind noise has been dampened down. There is still a bit of a rustle at speed, but no more than most 4x4s and the RAV4 is a comfortable motorway cruiser.

Although Toyota has worked to improve soundproofing, there’s no getting away from the fact that diesel RAV4s are pretty noisy, especially the 2.2-litre diesel which is particularly vocal even when driven gently.