Finally, a Cool RAV4

The Toyota RAV-X Concept is a RAV4 with an off-road makeover.
It has a custom suspension, adjustable shocks, and a Dakar Rally-inspired design.
The Toyota RAV-X is on display at this year's SEMA Show.

Few people, if any, would call the Toyota RAV4 a thrilling off-roader. It holds its own, but it’s also a crossover designed for the masses. It’s Toyota’s best-selling vehicle and the best-selling SUV in America—and it’s far from being a true Wrangler or Bronco competitor. But the automaker’s latest concept proves you can make a cool RAV4.

Toyota designed the RAV-X Concept like it was a Dakar Rally competitor, increasing its ground clearance, off-road capability, and ruggedness. The RAV-X features bespoke forged aluminum front control arms, forged aluminum rear upper supports, and a long-travel suspension that increases the vehicle’s height by 2.0 inches and the track width by 6.3 inches. It also has fully adjustable 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks with front external reservoirs and rear piggyback ones.

The automaker also improves the RAV4’s styling with a rally-inspired makeover that’s also functional. Seventeen-inch forged aluminum wheels on the concept come wrapped in 265/65R17 rubber, while a rear spoiler adds to the SUV's rugged vibe.

The new front bumper, with its integrated cooling ducts, and the custom ventilated front fender flares improve the SUV’s aerodynamics and cooling capabilities. Underneath, Toyota adds raised rocker panels, front and rear skid plates, and a dual exhaust system that pokes through the rear bumper. The added kit increases the ground clearance and the crossover’s approach and departure angles, significantly improving its off-road capability.

Sadly, the RAV-X is just a concept. The car was the brainchild of the Toyota Parts and Accessories Development department, which handled everything from the initial design sketches to the final assembly. It's now on display at this year's SEMA Show. It could preview what’s possible for the model’s future, but don't hold your breath for a production-ready version.

Mike Tripp, the Toyota Motor North America marketing division group vice president, said the RAV-X “is more than just a concept.” It’s “showing an entirely new possibility of just how cool and adventurous a small crossover like this can be.”

If it’s possible, make it happen Toyota. Having more choices never hurts.