Get Ready for the Sportier 2018 RAV4 Adventure

Toyota is gearing up to offer a new, sportier version of its popular compact crossover. Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, the 2018 RAV4 Adventure gives crossover enthusiasts a taste of what to expect. As the name suggests, the new RAV4 is built to handle the great outdoors, thanks to an elevated ride height, standard trailer-prep package, and beefed up fender flares that give this crossover a more rugged, menacing look. Aside from exterior updates, a number of interior add-ons complete the package.

On the outside

According to Toyota, the new RAV4’s interior additions include exclusive features such as new trim panels, all-weather floor and cargo mats, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. Other installations include door sill protectors, and a 120-volt, 100-watt power outlet in the cargo area.

Regarding safety

Trailer sway control and hill-start assist features add to the RAV4 Adventure’s sportiness, ensuring that drivers can enjoy more controlled performance when towing. The Safety Sense P—Toyota’s multi-feature active safety package that includes automated pre-collision warning and braking—comes standard as well. Here’s more info on the TSS-P, straight from Toyota’s website:

Toyota Safety Sense P combines an in-vehicle camera and front-grille-mounted, millimeter-wave radar for enhanced performance and more functionality.

• Pre-Collision System 10 with Pedestrian Detection function 7 (PCS w/PD)—Vehicle Detection & Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function (LDA w/SA) 11 (EPS-equipped vehicles)
• Automatic High Beams (AHB)
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)

You may click on this link to learn more about the Toyota Safety Sense feature.

Under the hood

On the mechanical end, the 2018 RAV4 Adventure boasts of a choice between front-wheel drive with limited-slip differential and an all-wheel drive with Dynamic Torque Control system. Should you need more grip on the road, you can get the optional four-corner traction feature. In the engine department, the currently equipped 2.5-liter inline-four with Dual VVT-I remains. The engine maxes out at 176 hp, with 233 Nm of torque power. This is partnered with a 6-speed automatic gearbox with manual select. As a new feature, both 4WD and AWD models have an upgraded radiator with engine and transmission oil coolers.

Black trims characterize the 2018 RAV4 Adventure

Nifty additions abound outside, such as the black-trimmed standard 18-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels, fog lamp surrounds lower body guards, and roof rack components. Buyers get to choose from five exterior options, although Toyota didn’t elaborate on them yet. As well, the 2018 RAV4 Adventure’s price hasn’t been disclosed as well, but we may soon find out as Toyota plans a September release for this latest version of their seminal crossover.