Check out Toyota RAV4 JDM edition

MANILA: It has been several months since Toyota launched the all-new RAV4 in our market and only recently did they release it in their home country.

The JDM RAV 4 has a more aggressive look and is based on the Adventure variant. The new RAV4 is nothing like its predecessor, it’s a good looking SUV packed with the latest technology while being comfortable to drive.

The JDM RAV4 looks like the Off-Road special sold in the US market. It is based on the top-spec Adventure variant, which means it gets a more menacing front grille, a skid plate mounted on the front bumper and differently designed foglights.

Other differentiating factors include massive 19-inch dual-tone 5-spoke alloy wheels and black fender flares. All these visual treatments give the JDM RAV4 a more rugged look and add to its off-road appeal.

Step inside the entry/mid variant of the RAV4 in Japan and it looks the same as the models sold here. The higher-end variants in Japan are available in a wide array of colors, trimmings, and finishes. Options include white trim pieces, white/beige colored seats with red accents on the dashboard, and centre console. The Japanese RAV4 certainly has a more plush interior than what we get locally.

Powering the JDM version of the RAV4 are 2 sets of engines, a 2.0-litre M20A 4-cylinder unit and a 2.5-litre A25A 4-cylinder hybrid. The former makes 170 bhp with 207 Nm of torque while being mated to a CVT gearbox, the bigger engine makes 203 bhp and 243 Nm of torque and is linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Either of these engines can be had in front/all-wheel-drive configurations. Top of the line variants will have an advanced all-wheel-drive system that can disconnect the rear axle to improve fuel economy. Available on the Hybrid X variant is the E-Four electric 4-wheel drive system.

Safety technology is also top notch on the RAV4. It has Toyota’s latest iteration of the Safety Sense preventive safety systems. What you get is dynamic radar cruise control, lane traffic assist, lane departure warning, road sign assist, automatic high beam assist, and pre-collision safety.

We wish Toyota would offer the Adventure variant locally, as well. Or they could also have the Adventure add-ons as official accessories perhaps?

Also Read:- 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime debuts – and it’s the second fastest Toyota