'More than just a concept': Toyota RAV4's tough-as-nails future revealed in SEMA special that points to RAV4 GR to rival Ford Bronco Sport and future Mitsubishi Outlander Ralliart

Toyota has been busy at this year’s Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) show held in Las Vegas. 

Perhaps the most exciting, and relevant, is the RAV-X concept put together by Toyota North America’s Accessories Development (SPAD) team to show the RAV4's tough-as-nails future.

Based on the current-gen RAV4 plug-in hybrid, the Dakar-inspired off-road SUV is fitted with various bespoke, 3D-printed and aftermarket parts to give it the rough and tumble capability to take on Ford’s Bronco Sport and Mitsubishi’s much anticipated Outlander Ralliart. 

The car on the stage is one off show-car, but Group Vice President, Toyota Division Marketing, Toyota Motor North America Mike Tripp hinted the RAV-X shows intent. 

“This Toyota RAV-X is more than just a concept; it’s a bold statement of what’s possible when innovation meets performance…with RAV-X we’re showing an entirely new possibility of just how cool and adventurous a small crossover like this can be,” Tripp said.

And although the RAV-X is an entirely North American project, Toyota Gazoo Racing boss Tomoya Takahashi is on a similar page.  

“In future, in my individual point of view, we need GR SUV cars,” Takahashi-san told Australian media in March.

Going beyond a first look, the RAV-X is a serious piece of kit. Starting with the exterior, it has a Dakar-inspired front bumper to enhance clearance along with metal under-body protection and raised rocker panels. 

Beneath the chunky fender flares that echo the regular RAV4’s wheel arch shape are rally-look 17x8.5-inch alloy wheels finished in a flat white paint with ‘TOYOTA’ logo. They’re wrapped in 265/65R17 off-road rubber with red mud-flaps to finish the look.

The larger wheels, combined with revised suspension, contribute to a 160mm wider track that enhances stability and a 51mm body lift to improve capability.

To keep wheels in contact with the road (or dirt), the RAV-X features trick external reservoir Fox dampers with 2.5-inch shafts and high- and low-speed compression adjustment. Forged aluminium lower control arms and rear upper supports ensure reliable performance. 

Motivating the RAV-X is the US-market RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid’s 225kW engine that breathes a little easier thanks to a ‘ram air’ intake system and twin-exit exhaust pipes. Far from being confirmed for production, the RAV-X shows there’s some action around potential GR-ification of SUVs. 

The RAV4 is expected to be replaced by a new model to be revealed late next year, potentially giving the perfect launch for a GR SUV. 

Along with the RAV-X, Toyota also had a wild all-wheel drive turbocharged GR86, a convertible LandCruiser Prado and open-air 4Runner Surf on show at this year’s SEMA show.