The Toughest Version of the 2026 RAV4 from Japan Threatens Subaru’s Position Among Buyers

Japanese Tuner Jaos Presents an Enhanced Package for the Toyota RAV4 Adventure

Toyota recently introduced the new generation RAV4 for the Japanese market. While another tuner, Modellista, offers only a light “off-road” look, Jaos has gone significantly further by presenting a serious package for the harsh operation of the popular crossover. The kit includes protected body cladding, improved wheels, and a raised suspension for increased ground clearance.

These changes are not merely cosmetic. The modifications are designed to enhance the off-road character of the RAV4 while preserving its on-road comfort. As always with Jaos, the execution is focused on functionality, and the kit is available à la carte for those who want to choose individual upgrades.

What’s Included in the Jaos Kit?

The kit is developed based on the Adventure trim. It is similar to the Outdoor Package from Modellista but looks significantly more aggressive. A sturdy bumper guard with four yellow LEDs, styled after the marker lights of large off-roaders, is installed at the front. The bumper itself also received a three-section extension.

On the side, the car looks more robust thanks to wide over-fenders, sturdy side steps, and protective cladding on the pillars. Optional elements include carbon-look covers for the door handles and fuel filler flap.

Changes at the Rear and the Chassis

At the rear, Jaos adds protective cladding on the tailgate and rear bumper, complemented by a waterproof luggage tray. The large aluminum underbody protection remains standard for the RAV4 Adventure and pairs well with the new elements.

The crossover now rides on 17-inch Jaos Adamas BL5 wheels in Smoke Polished Black or Matte Glass Black colors. They are smaller than the standard 18-inch ones, allowing for the installation of more aggressive off-road tires. Buyers can also order matching mud flaps in black or red.

Suspension for True Off-Roading

For those planning to drive off the asphalt, cosmetic improvements can be combined with the Jaos Battlez Lift-up suspension and adjustable shock absorbers. This system adds from 20 to 25 mm of additional ground clearance.

The RAV4’s technical underpinnings remain unchanged. The car retains the standard 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain producing 237 hp. Power is still delivered to all four wheels via the electric E-Four all-wheel-drive system, which includes Trail and Snow modes.

Kit Cost and Where to See It

Jaos offers each part separately, and the prices correspond to niche equipment. The front bumper costs about $740, the bumper guard and side steps are $430 each. The over-fenders will set you back $620, the pillar cladding $220, and the mud flaps $230.

The rear cladding and protection cost $140, and the protective covers for the door handles and fuel filler flap are $40 each. The wheel set without tires is priced at $1400, and the upgraded suspension (springs and shock absorbers) is $1040. In total, the full upgrade package costs about $5,400 on top of the starting price of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Adventure in the Japanese market, which is $28,800.

The updated RAV4 will make its public debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, taking place from January 9 to 11. Jaos will also bring several other modified off-roaders to the exhibition, including versions of the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 and Delica Mini, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, and Toyota Land Cruiser 250. The exhibition will be completed by the Lexus GX550h Overtrail Team Jaos 2025, prepared for off-road racing.

The offer from Jaos clearly demonstrates a market trend: even versatile urban crossovers like the RAV4 have significant potential for transformation into more capable off-road vehicles. These are not just accessories, but serious engineering solutions — lifted suspension, protective elements, and special wheels that expand the vehicle’s scope of operation. Similar packages offered by renowned tuners often become a benchmark for manufacturers themselves and can influence the appearance of official “rugged” versions in the future.

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