SEMA 2024: Toyota RAV-X concept images more rugged RAV4

Toyota USA has pulled the drapes off the 2024 Toyota RAV-X, a wild off-road racing take on the current Toyota RAV4.

Developed by Toyota North America’s accessories division, the RAV-X unashamedly apes a Dakar or local Baja 1000 racer and comes equipped with motorsport-ready alloy wheels, rally tyres, race-spec suspension and new underbody amour, including a tough-looking front bash-plate.

The larger rolling stock and revised suspension are said to raise the body by 51mm while the 160mm wider front and rear tracks enhance stability and grip at high speed off-road.

Powering the RAV-X is the same 225kW plug-in hybrid powertrain that drives the US-spec RAV4 Prime, although that output might be on the conservative side as the concept features a revised intake and new sports exhaust.

While some parts have been 3D-printed and others lifted from the existing accessories parts catalogue, some have suggested that the latest RAV-X could preview a real production vehicle based on next year’s all-new 2025 Toyota RAV4.

The faster more rugged take on the mid-size Toyota is expected to be badged ‘GR’ and could feature a specially-developed powertrain developed by Gazoo Racing.

“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,” Toyota USA marketing president Mike Tripp said.

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