Update for Toyota RAV4: Japanese Manufacturer Tuning
Although production of the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 ended at the end of last year, the company is in no rush to forget about this model. Owners in Japan are being offered an official update from Toyota that significantly improves the crossover’s off-road capabilities.
Suspension and Lift Kit
The most important update is the suspension modernization. Owners can install new front and rear shock absorbers with springs that raise the vehicle by 50 mm at the front and 40 mm at the rear.
Toyota claims the lift kit is designed to maintain the same on-road ride quality as standard suspension parts.
Before installing the new components, Toyota service centers will conduct a preliminary inspection of the vehicle. It may be necessary to install a new reverse light in the center of the bumper to comply with local safety standards due to the increased height.
The cost of the suspension kit is 181,566 yen (about $1,120 USD), including installation. If a taillight replacement is needed, an additional 42,570 yen ($260) must be paid. The kit is available for all RAV4 versions produced from August 2020 to November 2025, including gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid modifications.
Exterior and Accessories
Toyota has also introduced several new black exterior parts for the RAV4 that emphasize its rugged look. These include a new front bumper, wheel arch extensions, and rearview mirrors with a rough black plastic texture resembling truck bed liner.
The cost of the arch extensions is 108,020 yen ($670) with installation. Prices for the front bumper and mirrors have not yet been announced. If you add the extensions to the suspension kit and taillight, a fully equipped RAV4 will cost approximately $2,050, not including the two as-yet unpriced items.
Other Update Options
Other accessories for the RAV4 are available in Japan. For example, pre-facelift models can be equipped with new LED headlights from the updated 2021 version. You can also replace USB-A ports with USB-C, and for older models, Toyota offers the installation of a wireless smartphone charger.
Interestingly, Toyota offers these updates exclusively for the domestic Japanese market. Similar options are not available for American owners, which may be due to differences in regulatory standards or the company’s marketing strategy. This approach allows extending the model’s lifecycle and offering loyal customers additional value, even after production has ended. It is worth noting that the cost of the full update package is relatively moderate, making it accessible to a wide range of owners who wish to give their vehicle a more off-road character without the need to buy a new SUV.