New Toyota RAV4 looks tough, but is it ugly?

So, do you think the new Toyota RAV4 is good looking?

No? Well how about tough or aggressive then? If so, that will make Toyota Australia happy.

Spurred on by strong sales of the tougher-looking Rugged and Rugged X HiLux models, it’s happy with the new styling language of the new RAV4, which goes on sale in Australia in the second quarter of 2019.

Based on the Toyota New Generation Architecture (TNGA) and slightly shorter, wider and lower with shorter overhangs than its predecessor, the new RAV4 has been shown internationally with three aggressive snouts and substantial body cladding.

There has been a concerted effort to lift interior quality, design and outward vision.

Among Toyota’s claimed achievements are an increase in rear seat room, a larger glasshouse, slimmer A-pillars and a lower instrument panel for improved outward visibility.

The ‘adventure and refinement’ styling theme, developed in Japan, is meant to make RAV4 look less like a high-riding passenger car and more like an SUV with off-road capabilities — something backed up by two new all-wheel drive systems.

The front-end styling has obvious links with vehicles such as the Toyota Tundra full-size pick-up sold in the USA.

“This [styling] is what Australia is looking for, especially in SUVs and utes and pick-up trucks,” said Toyota Australia marketing boss Sean Hanley at the global RAV4 media drive. You’ll have to wait to November 20 to read our impressions.

“I think people really like the idea of a tough truck as a thought process. I do.

“I believe that the SUV market will once again set a benchmark, but it will be tougher SUVs in the future. But they will have to continue to offer refinement and luxury.”

Hanley said the combination of tough styling and added refinement will keep the SUV segment the most popular in Australia.

The HiLux is Australia’s top-selling vehicle and is on course to repeat that feat for the fourth straight year in 2018.