Toyota’s pioneering RAV4 was already building a reputation as a successful compact crossover long before such vehicles became fashionable.

But a lot has changed in the car market since the model was launched in the mid-90s, when the challenge was to convince buyers that a compact SUV was the way to go.

Now, there are so many comparable vehicles on the roads that Toyota’s task with this new fifth generation RAV4 is to make it fresh enough and different enough to set it apart from the long list of rivals that have emerged in the same segment.

And it’s fair to say the Japanese manufacturer has had a pretty good go at it.

The fifth generation of the vehicle is larger, better finished, and much more efficient.

The latest RAV4 features Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which is 57 per cent stiffer than its predecessor.

It also has double-wishbone suspension designed to provide extra comfort, better weight distribution and more consistent steering.

Meanwhile, the interior has a significantly more premium feel than its predecessor, while equipment levels are generous.

Crisp design lines, including a more aggressive and angular look, mean the RAV4 is a handsome machine, although is appearance isn’t quite so quirky as the original model.

It now sits 10mm closer to the ground, which places the focus on the vehicle’s width and strength.

Inside, the cabin is more spacious than before thanks to the fact the wheelbase has been stretched by 30mm, with rear leg room being the main beneficiary of the extra interior space.

The boot is also generous in size - offering 580 litres of space.

Build quality in the cabin is faultless, with a number of ice touches, although the infotainment system doesn’t match the best in class.

Arguably the most important thing about the new RAV4 is that it’s available with just the one engine option – a hybrid.

The move is not untypical of the general direction of travel in the industry as many manufacturers ditch their diesel options.

The 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder engine, which is twinned with an electric motor, feels sprightly, with the sprint to 62mph achieved in 8.4 seconds.

If you choose the two-wheel drive option, tested here, you get 215bhp, with slightly more power available in the 219bhp four-wheel-drive version thanks to an extra motor at the rear.

It feels punchy and plenty powerful enough for most everyday situations, although the effect of putting all the power through the front wheels of a sizeable vehicle did, on occasions, create some unwanted wheelspin.

With the electric motor helping out the petrol unit, the vehicle offers a good balance between power and economy, with fuel consumption coming in at around 50mpg and emissions of just 105g/km.

The RAV4 feels well-planted through the corners, with body roll well contained.

There steering lacks a bit of feel, which detracts from the overall driving experience.

The driving experience is very refined, not least when cruising, with virtually no tyre or wind noise. The only thing that interferes with the quietness is the drone from the CVT powertrain under heavy acceleration.

In terms of safety, the Toyota Safety Sense package, featuring pre-collision systems and adaptive cruise control, provides plenty of driver assistance and helps you respond to potential dangers.

The RAV4 has also been awarded the top five star rating in Euro NCAP safety testing.

In conclusion, the RAV4 fuses SUV character with style and technology.

The combination of high torque and low emissions means the vehicle is well suited to both country roads and city streets.

Toyota RAV4 Excel

ENGINE: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid

PRICE: £33,915 on the road

TOP SPEED:112mph (0-62mph in 8.4 seconds)

AVERAGE MPG: 47.8-50.4

CO2 EMISSIONS: 105g/km

INSURANCE GROUP: 26E

WARRANTY: Five years/100,000 miles