Toyota has unveiled the new facelifted RAV4 SUV at the New York Motor Show and announced that a hybrid version will be part of the model’s range.

The new RAV4 will be launched in December with revised styling, greater interior quality and a host of new technology, with hybrid versions coming to the UK and Europe in early 2016.

The facelift features a new front-end design that includes full LED headlights for the first time and a revamped, higher-quality interior with soft-touch materials and an LCD colour screen.

Toyota’s Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist safety features included on the new Avensis and Auris will be carried over into the RAV4, as will an enhanced version of its Pre-Collision System. Also among the new tech on offer is Toyota’s 360deg Panoramic View Monitor, which displays obstacles in the drivers' blindspots on the infotainment screen.

The RAV4 is a rival to the Mazda CX-5, Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga among its rivals, but it’s the first of the lot to offer a hybrid model in its range.

Powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor, the RAV4 Hybrid will have a towing capacity of 1650kg and an electric all-wheel-drive system that uses an electric motor to power the rear axle.

The fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 facelift is set to go on sale in December this year and will be joined by a hybrid version in early 2016.