The all-new Toyota RAV4 has been in the global market since last year, and it is also already available in the Philippines. Despite the all-new model being released, Toyota has released an official lift kit for older RAV4 units, and owners in Japan can opt to have it installed.
Specifically, Toyota Japan has launched a two-inch suspension lift kit that’s said to be designed for the 50-Series RAV4, which is a unit produced from 2020 to 2025. Toyota said that the lift kit allows the old RAV4 to have a more composed demeanor, as it will have a better off-road presence.
The Japanese automaker goes on by stating that owners should not worry about the RAV4’s ride, and the lift kit is claimed not to alter the standard ride feel or make the ride bumpy. Toyota is confident the lift kit is a factory-certified upgrade, which is designed to maintain the original or standard ride comfort. To put things in perspective, the lift kit raises the RAV4’s front by 50 millimeters (2 inches) and the rear by 40 millimeters (1.6 inches). Toyota said that this height increase provides impressive ground clearance while maintaining a smooth driving feel.
Before owners can install the lift kit, Toyota requires an inspection of the vehicle before installation. Owners in Japan must first book a preliminary check at a participating dealership for 5,500 yen (around P2,100). Toyota’s mechanics will verify if the vehicle complies with safety and modification rules. Once approved, the actual suspension lift kit costs 181,566 yen (around P68,900). Toyota Japan noted that some old RAV4 units might need a special backup lamp relocation kit to keep the reverse light at a legally allowed height.
Along with the suspension lift, Toyota Japan is offering rugged fender arch trims, which are finished in a special matte black color, which Toyota calls “Gori Gori Black.” The rugged fender trims are priced at 108,020 yen (about P41,000), which includes installation.
Autocar’s Take
Despite having launched the all-new RAV4, Toyota is still not quite ready to say sayonara to the old model, as it launches an official suspension lift kit and special rugged accessories for the old model. Available in Japan, Toyota said that the lift kit is designed for the 50-Series RAV4, and allows the old RAV4 to have a more composed demeanor, as it will have a better off-road presence. This is a nice gesture from Toyota, and a good example of how it takes care of its clients, regardless of how old the car is.
