Automotive

Toyota makes the 2018 RAV4 more adventurous

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Toyota RAV4 Adventure
The Toyota RAV4 Adventure debuts at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show
The Toyota RAV4 Adventure debuts at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show
The Toyota RAV4 Adventure debuts at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show
The Toyota RAV4 Adventure debuts at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show
The Toyota RAV4 Adventure debuts at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show
The RAV4 Adventure won't compete with the Toyota Land Cruiser or 4Runner in terms of capability, but it at least looks a little tougher around the edges
The Adventure package will be available starting in September
The Adventure package will be offered on both FWD and AWD RAV4 models
The interior includes a leather-wrapped shift knob, floor mats and other small upgrades
The Adventure looks a little more comfortable in woodsy surroundings than the typical RAV4
The flared-out fenders give the RAV4 Adventure a more muscular appearance
Any good special package needs the right badging
The Toyota RAV4 Adventure includes lower body protection
Toyota's RAV4 Adventure rides on 18-in wheels
"Adventure" in the mountains
The Adventure package includes black headlight bezels and fog lamp surrounds
Toyota RAV4 Adventure 
Toyota RAV4 Adventure 
Toyota RAV4 Adventure
View gallery - 19 images

Playful, upgraded SUVs seem to be the big story emerging out of the 2017 Chicago Auto Show, which opened to the media today. We've already seen the fast, powerful Dodge Durango SRT and the gear-haulin' VW Atlas pop-top. Toyota is also getting in on the SUV fun, making its RAV4 an unlikely adventure hero. The new RAV4 Adventure is another "active lifestyle" package that brings a higher ride height, more rugged looks and other upgrades aimed at conveying an image of boundless recreation and exploration.

The RAV4 may be one of the poster children for the way automakers saturated the rugged, truck-built SUV segment with hordes of small, car-like CUVs, but that doesn't mean it can't flash a little toughness. The Adventure package bulks it up with a set of over-fender flares and a higher ride height courtesy of suspension system adjustments.

The RAV4 Adventure won't compete with the Toyota Land Cruiser or 4Runner in terms of capability, but it at least looks a little tougher around the edges

The "dirt inspired" styling continues with lower body guards, black headlight bezels and fog lamp surrounds, black roof rails and "Adventure" badging. The rugged Rav rides on 18-in five-spoke black alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires. Exclusive interior features include a 120V/100W power outlet in the cargo area, Adventure-badged all-weather floor and cargo mats, Adventure door sill protectors, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and unique interior trim panels.

The interior includes a leather-wrapped shift knob, floor mats and other small upgrades

The Adventure package will be offered on 2018 front- and all-wheel drive RAV4 models starting in September. Both versions will include the Tow Prep Package standard. Five colors will be on offer: black, magnetic gray metallic, silver sky metallic, super white and ruby flare pearl.

Source: Toyota

View gallery - 19 images
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5 comments
Eddy1947
Off road capable or just for show?
Jonathan Colvin
Still no plug in hybrid?
Chuck Cronin
I like it, Jeep needs to put it in Gear
ljaques
It says "higher ride height" so instead of 5", it's now maybe 8? Better, but... ("dirt inspired" styling) makes it feel like this is a cheat rather than an offroad-capable vehicle. I wanted a hybrid Tundra back in '07 when I bought mine, but there wasn't even a hint of one available then, and doesn't seem to be even to this day. Sad. I definitely would have spent the extra few thou $ for the option. Somehow, I think battery life is haunting the delivery of EVs even now, and I'm hoping the Gigafactory by Tesla solves a lot of that.
EvanMcKenzie
Looks like Toyota tried to copy a Jeep Trailhawk and failed... At least on the exterior. Interior is still "Toyota boring."At least give me something more if your only going to give me 177 horse in an all wheel drive system. Offering a front wheel drive option with "adventure badging" is highly laughable.