Toyota drops clearer teasers of new SUV, confirms it as next RAV4

Toyota has released the first series of clearer teaser images of its new SUV debuting on 21 May, now officially confirmed as indeed the fifth generation RAV4.

One of its most important models, which last year became the world’s third best-seller with sales of 1.02-million units, the first new RAV4 in seven years will ride on the existing TNGA-K platform, but with speculated extensive revisions similar to those of the latest Camry.

What to expect

Previously teased via a series of overhead shots only, the latest depictions reveal part of the front facia resembling not only the Camry, but also the new C-HR and certain Lexus models.

ALSO READ: Toyota starts teasing new SUV rumoured to be the all-new RAV4

From a design and light cluster arrangement, the rear has seemingly been styled with hints from the new Avanza, Mitsubishi Xpander and even the Peugeot 3008.

Already seen, the interior takes after the all-electric bZ4X, but with model specific detailing such as a box-type design for the digital instrument cluster and a freestanding infotainment system of unknown size.

Shown in spy images as having a silhouette similar to the Crown Signia, which replaced the Venza in the United States last year, the RAV4 will reportedly continue to be offered with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powerunits, though seemingly no longer with an electrically unassisted combustion engine option.

Watch this space

The model that unsettled the Ford F-150 to become the US’ best-selling vehicle last year with sales of 475 193 versus 460 915 units, the RAV4 will most likely go on-sale around year-end in Japan and the States before being exported to other markets later.

As such, market availability for South Africa will only be announced at a later stage. If approved, expect sales to possibly start by the end of 2025 or in early 2026.

ALSO READ: Report claims current Toyota RAV4 continuing until 2025