This RAV4 Manual Was Preserved in a Time Capsule for 25 Years | Carscoops
Equipped with a manual transmission and four-wheel drive, this RAV4 J, imported from Japan, could serve as a delightful daily driver.
Published on June 25, 2025, at 18:38 by Brad Anderson.
The 2000 Toyota RAV4 J has only traveled 3,646 miles since leaving Japan.
It features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine connected to a five-speed manual gearbox.
It retains its original JDM aero kit, which includes distinctive bumpers, a spoiler, and mirrors.
The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most sought-after and dependable compact SUVs available, leading many to believe that most models accumulate mileage quickly due to frequent use. Yet, an exceptionally low-mileage example from 2000 has recently gone on sale, and for those feeling nostalgic for simpler times, it could be ideal. While it may not boast the luxury of a new model, it certainly possesses a unique charm.
This specific variant is called the RAV4 J, with 'J' denoting ‘joyful.’ It is a JDM-spec model that has since been brought to the United States. Remarkably, even though it left the Toyota factory 25 years ago, it has only been driven 5,869 km (3,646 miles) since new. This may very well be the lowest-mileage RAV4 of this era in the U.S. or anywhere globally.
The RAV4 J features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission and four-wheel drive. The engine may not be particularly strong, generating only 127 hp and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque, but the combination of a manual shift and 4WD likely makes it quite enjoyable to drive.
Its appearance is also quite distinctive. The SUV maintains its original Japanese aero kit, which includes a unique front bumper, new side sills, and a reinforced rear bumper. It also has a large rear spoiler, an additional wing mirror on the front quarter panel, and a peculiar mirror protruding over the rear window.
Both the car's exterior and interior appear to be in good condition. However, it is noted in the Cars & Bids auction that the vehicle was involved in an accident while still in Japan, leading to the replacement of the front fender and moderate repairs to the hood.
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This RAV4 Manual Was Preserved in a Time Capsule for 25 Years | Carscoops
This RAV4 J, which was brought in from Japan, features a stick shift and four-wheel drive, making it an enjoyable daily driver.