IT hardly seems like yesterday since Toyota first rolled-out its' trailblazing RAV-4, but the model which spawned the family SUV craze has been around for more than 30 years.

And now there's a new iteration on the way in the shape of the all-new sixth-generation RAV4, which will go into production later this year to build on the legacy of its pioneering predecessors with UK sales likely to start in Spring next year.

At its' world-premiere, Toyota revealed standard and GR Sport versions - the latter with a wider track and sports suspension - with full hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options.

Although details of the UK model range and specifications will be announced nearer to the car's launch here next year, it's thought that, initially at least, there will be a single plug-in hybrid power-train option with either two or four-wheel-drive and a spec based on the performance-oriented GR Sport.

The new generation plug-in hybrid system has a dual DNA, operating both as an electric vehicle and hybrid offering 62 miles of electric driving. The system features a battery with 30 per cent greater capacity, delivering more power, acceleration and efficiency and faster home charging, says Toyota.

External dimensions are similar to those of the outgoing-model, but styling is more boxy and rugged, reflecting the design-language of the C-HR and bZ4X. Inside there's a redesigned cabin with a digital cockpit featuring a new 12.9-inch home screen concept designed to give the driver all key information in one view.

The sixth-gen RAV-4 will feature Toyota's new Arene software development platform which the company claims is a step towards fully software-defined vehicles.

The system enables the creation and deployment of advanced safety and multimedia features in a digital environment and powers new safety technologies, significantly enhancing security and adding advanced driver and parking assistance features, says the company.

It also supports the global debut of a new Toyota multimedia system, providing enhanced connectivity, navigation and security tools, all said to operate faster than ever before.