This Toyota RAV4 is ready to get wet & wild

2023 Toyota RAV4 Adventure Off Road Package II unleashed

When the Toyota RAV4 first rolled out in 1994, it debuted as a fun three-door SUV that could go (almost) anywhere thanks to its 4WD capability. But to cater to more buyers, Toyota had to make a five-door version that is more family-friendly.

Through the years, the RAV4 has grown in size and practicality. There are now even hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the crossover available for those who prefer something more eco-friendly. However, some argue that the RAV4 has lost its roots as a fun go-anywhere vehicle through each generation.

Toyota, however, wishes to remind everyone that despite what everyone thinks, the RAV4 can still take on the road less traveled. What better way to prove that than by releasing a more rugged version of their popular crossover? Say hello to the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Adventure Offroad Package II, and it looks ready for the great outdoors.

Essentially an upgraded version of the Toyota RAV4 Adventure first revealed last year, the Adventure Offroad Package II gets plenty more upgrades, and then some. Perhaps the most noticeable upgrade is the “Gori Gori Black” paint applied on the front and rear bumpers, as well as on the mirror caps. While they may look like simple cosmetic upgrades, the unique black paint actually makes the bumpers and side mirror caps more durable against scratches.

Along with the black-painted bumpers and mirror caps are the 18-inch matte black alloy wheels, black plastic body cladding all around, front and rear skid plates, bumper intakes, and the flared wheel arches first found on the RAV4 Adventure. Ensuring grip on any terrain comes courtesy of Falken all-terrain tires that measure 225/60/R18, while a 10mm suspension lift gives the crossover better ground clearance.

Toyota also made some interior changes to the more rugged crossover. Starting with the tech features, the RAV4 now gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.5-inch touchscreen infotainment with improved software and navigation system. It also gets better intelligent driver aids, particularly when detecting pedestrians while making turns. Last but not least, it gets orange contrast stitching and an 'Off-Road Adventure' badge on the dashboard.

Under the hood, the JDM RAV4 Adventure Off Road Package II is available with a wide array of engines. From the regular 2.0-liter Dynamic Force inline-four to the 2.5-liter hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants with E-Four electric all-wheel drive, the RAV4 continues to be available in both ICE and electrified flavors. Depending on the variant, the crossover can come with either an 8-speed automatic or an E-CVT.

With the RAV4 Adventure Off Road Package II exclusive only to the Japanese market, we can only wish it will actually be offered here in the Philippines. Still, maybe Toyota Motor Philippines can provide customers the option to have its bumpers and side mirrors painted in the Gori-Gori Black paint for added protection against scratches.