The Toyota RAV-X Concept is a Dakar Rally-ready RAV4

We’ve shown you the Toyota Land Cruiser ROX Concept from the 2024 SEMA Show. Well, the Japanese automaker has more to showcase and this time it’s an off-road ready concept version of its popular RAV4 compact crossover.

Say hello to the Toyota RAV-X Concept, an off-road inspired concept designed by Toyota’s Service Parts and Accessories Development (SPAD) and gets a comprehensive list of upgrades to make this a very capable crossover.

Based on the North American-market 2024 Toyota RAV4 PHEV which already produces up to 306 horsepower on tap, its already low hybrid battery placement makes it an ideal platform for off-road performance thanks to a lower center of gravity. The concept has also been fitted with a ram air intake which could mean that it makes a little bit more power.

Underneath, the RAV-X gets a long-travel suspension that increases the vehicle’s height by 51mm, and the track-width has been increased by 160mm. Fully-adjustable custom 2.5-inch Fox internal bypass shock absorbers are also fitted.

Front external and rear piggyback reservoirs were added to keep shock oil temperatures in check when driving off-road. Forged aluminum front lower control arms and forged aluminum rear upper supports have also been specially developed to ensure that the vehicle can do high speed off-roading on desert terrain.

Making the most of styling and functionality is the Dakar-inspired front bumper with integrated cooling ducts and bespoke fender flares with front wheel ventilation. High clearance front and rear skid plates make sure everything is protected, while raised rocker panels increase ground clearance. It also gets 17-inch forged aluminum wheels which are wrapped in 265/65 R17 tires. These combined aid in providing better approach and departure angles.

Finally, a rear spoiler enhances aerodynamics along with vents on the front fascia. There are also high-clearance dual exhaust pipes which are integrated to the rear bumper. 

While it is unlikely to see this as a normal production model for anyone to purchase, a more capable Toyota RAV4 surely is welcome. What we’ll likely see from this though is Toyota entering it into the world renown Dakar Rally.