Unleash the 306HP Beast: 2024 New RAV4 PHEV GR Sport
In a thrilling announcement, Toyota’s UK subsidiary revealed on October 5, 2023, that they will be launching the 2024 model of the top-tier “RAV4” plug-in hybrid, known as the “GR SPORT,” in early 2024. This announcement has sent waves of excitement through the automotive industry, as Toyota continues to push the boundaries of style and performance.
A Legacy of Innovation
The RAV4 has a rich history, dating back to its debut in 1994. This pioneering crossover SUV was born from a passenger car platform and combined with a stylish and robust body design. Over the years, it has evolved into a global sensation, with cumulative sales reaching a staggering 8.12 million units worldwide by the end of 2017. The current model is the fifth generation, having made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show in March 2018, and subsequently going on sale in Japan in April 2019.
The RAV4’s appeal isn’t just skin deep; it boasts cutting-edge features, including the TNGA GA-K platform and a 4WD integrated control system. Additionally, the RAV4 is available not only as a gasoline vehicle but also as a hybrid vehicle (HEV) and a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV), demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to environmental performance.
Introducing the GR Sport
Toyota isn’t content with resting on its laurels. In February 2023, the company introduced the “GR Sport” to the European market, a sports model that inherits the spirit of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, a formidable presence in the motorsport world. The exterior enhancements include black finishes, a G-mesh pattern exclusive to the GR on the front grille, and 19-inch black-finished 5 double-spoke aluminum wheels exclusively for GR Sports. Underneath, a special suspension improves handling performance by tuning springs and shock absorbers to be stiffer.
The interior also receives a sporty makeover with a black finish. The seats, made of suede-like material and synthetic leather, provide excellent grip, making every drive an exciting experience. Various GR logos are strategically placed throughout the interior, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
High-Performance Lineup
In Europe, the RAV4 comes in two electrifying options. The RAV4 PHEV is equipped with a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid system, boasting a maximum system output of 225 kW (306 horsepower). Meanwhile, the 2.5-liter HEV model offers a maximum system output of 163 kW (222 horsepower).
The latest addition to this electrifying lineup is the 2024 RAV4 PHEV GR Sport. Although it retains the familiar interior and exterior design, Toyota UK has improved the special suspension and revised shock absorber settings, enhancing the driving experience. According to Toyota, the RAV4 PHEV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.0 seconds, outperforming the sports car GR86, which achieves the same feat in 6.3 seconds. This high-performance PHEV model promises an even more thrilling drive.
Pricing and Availability
The 2024 RAV4 PHEV GR Sport is priced at £48,990 (approximately 8,890,000 yen) in the UK. Toyota dealers in the UK are currently accepting orders, with deliveries scheduled to commence in early 2024.
Please note that the sporty RAV4 GR Sport will not be available in the Japanese market, but expectations are high for future offerings in Japan.
Toyota’s commitment to innovation, style, and performance is evident in the new RAV4 PHEV GR Sport. With its fearless face and extremely fast specifications, this crossover SUV is set to redefine the driving experience for enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Toyota continues to lead the way in the automotive industry, and the 2024 RAV4 PHEV GR Sport is no exception to their legacy of excellence.
Unleash Your Adventurous Side with VRARVA MARS 12 Thrilling Upgrades for Toyota RAV4!
The recently concluded outdoor event “FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2023” held at AICHI SKY EXPO on May 20th and 21st, 2023, offered an exciting array of campers and outdoor goods from various companies and individuals. Among the exhibits stood out the VRARVA “MARS,” a remodeled crossover SUV based on the Toyota RAV4, designed with a striking military vehicle aesthetic. Developed by KUHL JAPAN, a Nagoya-based company specializing in automotive dress-up, tuning, and manufacturing of aluminum wheels and aero parts, the VRARVA brand pushes the boundaries of design and functionality.
Dubbed “CYBER X RACING,” the VRARVA brand incorporates KUHL’s expertise in aero manufacturing, their vast knowledge gained from the race scene and wind tunnel experiments, and cutting-edge modeling technology. The result is a “near-future crossover car” that merges a commanding presence with exceptional functionality. Leading the series is the awe-inspiring “Mars,” a customized version of the ever-popular RAV4.
The “Mars” features a total of twelve body kits, available at a price of 990,000 yen, including tax for the unpainted version, or 499,400 yen for the one-tone painted version. The front section of the vehicle undergoes extensive remodeling, incorporating elements such as a redesigned “bonnet,” “front grille with Braava emblem,” and “front fender.” Not stopping there, the rear of the vehicle is also customized, featuring distinctive additions like the “rear fender” and “rear bumper.” Enthusiasts can further personalize their “Mars” with optional accessories, including the “roof end wing” (priced at 77,000 yen for unpainted and 30,800 yen for one-tone painting) and the brand emblem-adorned “rear garnish” (available for 34,100 yen unpainted or 13,200 yen with one-tone painting).
Additionally, visitors to the event were treated to a glimpse of a vehicle equipped with a roof rack capable of accommodating a tent—a testament to the “Mars” custom car’s versatility and practicality in outdoor settings. Combining power, ease of handling, and usability, the “Mars” redefines the crossover SUV experience for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Toyota RAV4, a crossover SUV first introduced by Toyota in 1994, has evolved into its fifth generation since its initial release in 2019. Available in both gasoline and hybrid variants, the RAV4 employs a 4WD system for enhanced driving performance on rough terrain. Renowned for its stylish design, the RAV4 appeals to urban drivers while maintaining excellent off-road capabilities.
KUHL JAPAN’s introduction of the VRARVA “MARS” at the FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2023 event showcases their commitment to pushing automotive boundaries and reimagining the concept of a crossover SUV. With its innovative design and impressive features, the “Mars” offers a glimpse into the future of automotive customization and outdoor adventuring.
The Toyota RAV4 SUV is popular due to its customizable features and the feeling of owning a unique car
The Toyota RAV4 SUV is popular due to its customizable features and the feeling of owning a unique car. The author of the article drove the American version of the RAV4 Adventure for three years, which has a larger engine and a different gearbox from the Japanese version. The current fifth-generation RAV4 was developed with the North American market in mind, with a design that reflects the trend towards outdoor activities. The front design had to match other Toyota models sold in the US, including pickups and SUVs, to enhance the brand’s identity. The RAV4 Adventure grade became popular in Japan after a preview event, leading Toyota’s domestic sales department to consider it a potential hit in the Japanese market.
The Toyota RAV4 is popular due to its customizable features, which allow owners to personalize their vehicles and create a sense of attachment to them. This is in line with Toyota’s philosophy that cars are not just products, but objects of affection. RAV4 owners often participate in off-road events and customize their vehicles in various ways, with lift-up and low-down modifications being the most common. The former group tends to use all-terrain tires with 16-inch wheels, while the latter prefer larger wheels with low-profile tires. The Adventure grille is also a popular customization option, with many owners replacing the Toyota emblem with the word “TOYOTA” in the US Toyota style.
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular SUV model in overseas markets
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular SUV model in overseas markets, particularly in North America and China. In Japan, the current model was released in April 2019 and has undergone various improvements and additions since then. The RAV4 has been on the market for about 30 years, with the current fifth generation model being sold. Its name stands for “”Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4 Wheel Drive””. The current powertrain includes gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options to cater to a wide range of needs. The RAV4 boasts high off-road performance through the use of multiple 4WD systems and advanced technologies such as Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD.
Toyota’s RAV4 SUV continues to be popular even after 4 years since its release. The SUV boasts of its off-road capabilities and acceleration power, which are attractive features for buyers. While the RAV4 is popular among city dwellers for its stylish design, the high-end models are favored for their rugged exterior and luxurious interior. With the increasing popularity of outdoor leisure activities and SUVs, the RAV4’s design has been well-received by customers who prefer a more rugged look.
Toyota’s RAV4 was almost like a concept car when it was released
Toyota’s RAV4 was almost like a concept car when it was released. Various events such as motor shows and auto salons around the world showcase concept cars, new models, and customized cars from various car manufacturers, attracting people’s attention. The Future Toyota Adventure Concept (FT-AC), an SUV concept car, was exhibited by Toyota at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2017 and led to the 5th generation RAV4 released in 2018. The FT-AC was designed as a model targeting users who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, river rafting, and mountain biking, proposing an active way to spend holidays. Its exterior features include a widened front grille and LED headlights that wrap around the side, emphasizing a powerful and bold SUV-style design with a long wheelbase and wide fenders with 20-inch wheels. It also expresses off-road drivability that makes various “adventures” possible by equipping underguards at the front and rear in addition to a high minimum ground clearance. The body color expresses an active outdoor feel with a contrast of two colors, vivid green and gray. The roof rack that carries necessary items for outdoor activities is equipped with LED lights that can be dimmed with a mobile device.
The RAV4 is a global model of a mid size SUV
A Toyota RAV4 limousine, which is over 5 meters long and has an extremely spacious rear seat, was unveiled to the world. The RAV4 is a global model of a mid-size SUV, particularly popular in the North American market since its launch in 2018. The limousine version, which was unveiled in November 2019, is still in existence as of April 2023. The RAV4 has been a popular SUV since its inception in 1994 and has become one of Toyota’s core global models. The current fifth-generation model features a rugged yet sophisticated design and offers gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as well as three different 4WD systems.
The RAV4 is a full-fledged crossover SUV
Toyota’s New “RAV4” All-Four-Wheel-Drive Crossover SUV to be Launched in Brazil at 8.25 Million Yen with a Charming Interior and Improved Safety Features! With stylish interior and evolved safety features, it will be introduced to the Brazilian market at 8.25 million yen!
All 4WD RAV4
On January 26, 2023, Toyota’s Brazilian subsidiary announced and launched the 2023 model of Toyota’s authentic crossover SUV, the RAV4.
8.25 million yen! See the new Toyota “RAV4,” a completely luxury car,
What kind of car is it?
The Toyota “RAV4 2023” in Brazil.
The RAV4 is a full-fledged crossover SUV, with the first model launched in 1994; the current model is the fifth generation, which will be introduced in 2019.
In Japan, a partially redesigned model will arrive in October 2022 with expanded Toyota Safety Sense functionality, a display audio system compatible with the connected navigation system, and a new digital meter cluster.
The “Adventure “OFFROAD package II,” a special edition model with “GORI GORI BLACK” paint, which has an uneven, low-gloss texture created by applying layers of paint to the front bumper, door mirrors, and other parts, was also introduced and became a topic of conversation.
The new 2023 RAV4, which is now available in the Brazilian market, will be offered in a much more limited range of grades compared to the Japanese RAV4.
The powertrain combines a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum output of 178 hp and 22.5 kgfm with a motor that delivers a maximum output of 120 hp and 20.6 kgfm, for a total system output of 222 hp.
The transmission combined with this engine is an electric CVT. Four driving modes are available: Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport, and all models are 4WD.
The interior features high-grade genuine leather (and some synthetic leather) seats. The official website of Toyota’s Brazilian subsidiary confirms the beige interior, which is not available in Japan. The steering wheel and gear knob are also covered in leather, and the door handles have silver detailing.
Safety features also include a new Lane Tracing Assist (LTA). Rear Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Rear Seatbelt Alert will also remain available.
The price is R$322,890 (approximately 8,250,000 yen).
RAV4 Gets a Radical Makeover
No longer a fighter jet? Military Toyota “RAV4″ is in a bad way. What is the most popular extreme customization?
RAV4 Gets a Radical Makeover!
MARS” exhibited at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 by KUHL JAPAN, a developer and seller of customized parts for Japanese cars, won the Grand Prix in the Tokyo International Custom Car Contest 2023.
The Tokyo International Custom Car Contest is a competition in which visitors vote to select the number one custom car among the vehicles exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
RAV4 Gets a Radical Makeover! Fully armed Brava Mars is so cool.
Brava Mars” based on Toyota’s RAV4
One Grand Prize winner and two Excellence Award winners were selected in eight categories (concept car, dress-up car, tuning car, sedan, minivan/wagon, SUV, K-car/compact car, and import car) during the show, and voting for the eight Grand Prize winners was held on the Tokyo Auto Salon official website after the show. As a result, Maz won the most votes.
Mars, the first model of the new “VRARVA” series, is a complete car with a near-future crossover car theme.
Based on Toyota’s RAV4 SUV, the VRARVA’s world view is created by mixing military tastes like an “armored car” and mechanical tastes with sharp edges that evoke images of “metal,” “steel,” and “metal. A body kit was installed on all parts except the windows, roof, and lights, resulting in a bold styling change.
The front design features a hood with raised headlights, an edgy hexagonal grille, and a black bumper. It creates a robust atmosphere.
The side styling continues the rugged and muscular image with exclusive front fenders, door panels, and side panels, and continues to the rear design, which is reminiscent of a fighter plane.
The “Mars Complete Kit” consists of 12 body kits: “hood,” “front grille with Bulava emblem,” “front lower grille,” “front bumper (3-part),” “front fender,” “front door fender,” “side panels with Bulava logo,” Rear door fenders, rear fenders, fuel lid cover, rear bumper, and rear liftgate lower garnish are included in the price (including consumption tax, excluding paint and installation labor) of 990,000 yen for the 12-piece set.
The optional “roof window wings” cost 77,000 yen, the “rear garnish” 34,100 yen, and the “door mirror covers” 33,000 yen.
In addition to new car complete cars that can be built, the company says it is also possible to finish or retrofit a used car as a base.
For the new car complete car, customers can freely choose the grade, body color, and options for the base RAV4 (some options are not available). The price for the gasoline 2WD/X grade with black body color is 4,290,000 yen.
RAV4 GR Sport Launched in Spain
Off-Road Performance is Amazing! A Sporty Grade for Toyota SUVs! New “RAV4 GR Sport” Launched in Spain
Sporty “RAV4 GR Sport” in both design and driving performance
On February 2, 2023, Toyota’s Spanish subsidiary announced the addition of the GR Sport to its lineup as a sporty grade of the RAV4.
The bold front grille of the new RAV4 GR Sport is finished with a mesh designed with the letter “G” for a three-dimensional effect, and the same pattern is used for the large, beveled fog lamps. The lower part of the bumper is dark gray metallic, emphasizing the sporty appearance.
(Image) The gauges are futuristic! See 18 photos of the extremely sporty “RAV4 GR Sport” interior and exterior.
Toyota “RAV4 GR Sport” added as a sporty grade
The rear has a gloss black border between the license plate and window for a rear view with a strong presence. The rear bumper is also fitted with a mesh with the letter “G” on it.
In addition, the 19-inch GR Sport aluminum wheels were designed to be lightweight and highly rigid, and the 5-twin spokes have a gloss black finish with finely machined spoke edges.
The interior is based on a black color scheme, creating a driving-oriented atmosphere. The seats are made of a combination of suede-like material and synthetic leather that provides a good grip and support for the body. Silver gray stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and shift lever adds a touch of elegance.
In addition, dark gray metallic accents on the steering wheel, air conditioner vent, and around the shift lever on the center console create a refined interior space.
The GR Sport features electrically adjustable front seats and a panoramic view monitor with under-floor transparency function that allows the driver to see the terrain conditions when driving off-road and to precisely control the vehicle at low speeds. In addition, a newly developed digital reverse camera provides high-resolution real-time images.
The 12.3-inch meters are fully digital, with sharp graphics and four customizable themes: casual, smart, tough, and sporty.
The display is divided into three zones, with the center section displaying frequently used information, such as advanced safety system indicators, and the left and right displays showing information such as fuel economy and audio selections, with the ability for the driver to highlight preferred information.
In addition, the center of the dashboard features the latest Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system operated by a 10.5-inch touchscreen. The high-definition graphics provide a sharp, clear image that is unaffected by light exposure.
In addition to design and equipment, the new RAV4 GR Sport has improved driving feel through suspension tuning.
Front and rear springs have been stiffened to improve agility and responsiveness. The suspension is MacPherson struts in the front and double wishbones in the rear, both with sway bars for a stronger structure.
The engine is a 2.5-liter hybrid, and the standard drive system is an electric four-wheel drive system (AWD-i). The vehicle’s hybrid system and the power of the electric motor added to the rear axle generate torque with high efficiency.
This system delivers a maximum system output of 222 hp. The system reduces energy loss, saves weight, and optimizes all-wheel drive under various driving conditions.
The RAV4 GR Sport’s AWD-i is also the first current RAV4 to feature Trail Mode, an automatic differential control system that provides maximum grip and control on slippery road surfaces.
Even if a wheel floats on an uneven surface, activating Trail Mode with a button on the center console allows the driver to brake the idling tire and distribute engine torque to the tire in contact with the ground to get out of a rough road.
The price of the new RAV4 GR Sport Hybrid in Spain is 50,600 euros, or about 7.09 million Japanese yen.
A vehicle equipped with a plug-in hybrid system is scheduled to be introduced in 2024.
Young RAV4 owners are all about looks
Why is Toyota’s “Wild SUV” so popular among young people? Buy a “RAV4” for everyday use! What are they looking for in a 4WD vehicle?
Young RAV4 owners are all about looks!
Toyota’s 2019 RAV4 SUV got off to a strong start, receiving about eight times its monthly sales target in the first month after its announcement. At the same time, it was announced that “40% of buyers are in their 20s and 30s.
More than three years after its debut, the “popularity of the RAV4 among young people” is still going strong, with nearly 50% of gasoline-powered models and nearly 40% of hybrid models purchased by people in their 20s and 30s.
In love with the design! The gobsmacking “RAV4” is seriously cool!
What is the reason why the RAV4 is selling well among young people?
Toyota’s “RAV4” is popular among young people for its rugged appearance.
When asked by Toyota dealership staff, they said that they have a strong impression that the RAV4 is selling well among young people in the field, and the main reason young people choose the RAV4 is because of its appearance.
The angular exterior design of the RAV4, which is a four-wheel-drive SUV, seems to be the deciding factor in its purchase, and most young people go to the dealership and nominate the RAV4 for purchase, rather than comparing it with other models.
A friend of the author (Shogo Nishikawa), who bought a RAV4 when he was 24 years old, told us, “I fell in love with its masculine and rugged look! and he said that it became his dream car when he was a college student when the current RAV4 was introduced, and that his favorite point was the front grille.
Thus, it seems that the RAV4’s wild design, which anticipates high off-road performance, is popular among young people.
However, when we asked the staff at the dealership, they told us that while there are certainly some people who enjoy outdoor activities, most of them use the RAV4 for ordinary purposes such as commuting, shopping, and leisure activities. However, the staff at the dealerships told us that although there are some users who enjoy outdoor activities, most of them use their cars for commuting, shopping, and leisure.
They also said that there tends to be a rather large number of single people, and they see many people choosing the RAV4 as their first new car in their lives.
This may be due to the fact that the hybrid model costs approximately 650,000 yen more than the gasoline model, and the Adventure grade, which has a strong off-road taste, was initially available only as a gasoline model. The Adventure grade, which has a strong off-road taste, was initially only available in a gasoline version.
In December 2021, a hybrid version of the Adventure grade was added to the lineup, and now both the gasoline and hybrid models are available in similar grades. The “G “Z package” is available only for gasoline-powered models.
The gasoline-powered RAV4 is equipped with Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which independently controls the torque of the rear wheels on both sides, and this is said to contribute to its excellent driving performance. The gasoline-powered version of the RAV4 features Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which independently controls the torque of the rear wheels on both sides, so some buyers may be attracted by its powertrain, which offers a more dynamic driving experience.
The RAV4’s popularity among today’s young people can be attributed to its appearance, with its aggressive SUV-like design, extensive equipment, and user-friendly features such as convenience and comfort.