Japan’s Most Challenging 2026 RAV4 Appears to Pose a Threat to Subaru Enthusiasts | Carscoops

Japan’s Most Challenging 2026 RAV4 Appears to Pose a Threat to Subaru Enthusiasts | Carscoops

      Toyota's RAV4 Adventure has been enhanced by Jaos, featuring upgrades that make it tougher, including new wheels and a lift kit, although there are no performance modifications expected.

      Jaos has provided a rugged upgrade package for Toyota's RAV4 Adventure.

      The SUV now boasts a reinforced bumper, LED lights, fender extensions, and side skirts.

      An optional lift kit and all-terrain tires enhance its off-road capabilities.

      Toyota has recently unveiled the new-generation RAV4 for the Japanese market. While Modellista offers a slightly outdoorsy version, Jaos has taken a more aggressive approach to fortify the SUV. Their modifications include a protective body kit, upgraded wheels, and a lifted suspension for increased ground clearance.

      These enhancements go beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to elevate the RAV4's off-road prowess while maintaining its on-road performance. True to Jaos’s reputation, the upgrades are practical and can be customized a la carte, allowing customers to select their desired features.

      What Differentiates the Jaos Kit?

      Built on the Adventure trim, Jaos’s modifications are similar to Modellista’s Outdoor Package but are more visually striking. The front now features a robust nose protector with four amber LED lights that resemble those on full-size trucks, along with a three-piece bumper extension.

      The vehicle's profile appears more rugged due to the wider bolt-on fender extensions, sturdy side skirts, and pillar protectors. Additional optional items include carbon-style covers for the door handles and fuel lid.

      At the rear, Jaos adds protective elements to the tailgate and bumper, along with a waterproof luggage tray. The standard large aluminum-style skid plate on the RAV4 Adventure integrates seamlessly with the new cladding.

      Now resting on a set of Jaos Adamas BL5 wheels that are 17 inches in diameter, these wheels are available in Smoke Polished Black or Matte Glass Black. This size is smaller than the standard 18-inch alloys, allowing for larger all-terrain tires. Buyers can choose matching mudguards in either black or red.

      For those venturing off-road, the aesthetic modifications can be paired with Jaos's Battlez Lift-up springs and frequency-sensitive adjustable dampers, providing an extra 20 to 25 mm (0.8 to 1.0 inch) of ground clearance.

      Mechanically, the RAV4 remains unchanged, continuing to utilize the standard 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain that produces a combined output of 237 hp (177 kW / 240 PS). The all-wheel power distribution is managed by Toyota’s E-Four electric all-wheel-drive system, which includes Trail and Snow modes as standard features.

      What is the Total Cost for the Full Package?

      Jaos offers each component separately, with pricing in line with expectations for specialized equipment. The front bumper is priced at ¥114,400 (approximately $740), while both the nose protector and side skirts are offered at ¥66,000 ($430) each.

      The bolt-on fenders are priced at ¥94,600 ($620), the pillar garnish at ¥33,000 ($220), and the mudguards at ¥35,200 ($230). The rear trim for the tailgate and scuff plate costs ¥22,200 ($140), and the door handle and fuel lid protectors are ¥5,500 ($40) each.

      A wheel set costs ¥218,240 ($1,400) without tires, and the upgraded suspension (springs and dampers) is available for ¥162,800 ($1,040). When added together, the total amounts to ¥850,440 ($5,400) in addition to the starting price of ¥4,500,000 ($28,800) for the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Adventure in Japan.

      The upgraded RAV4 is set to make its public debut at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, scheduled for January 9 to 11.

      Jaos will also showcase several other modified SUVs at the event, including versions of the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 and Delica Mini, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), Subaru Forester, and Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series. The lineup will also feature the off-road racing-prepared Lexus GX550h Overtrail Team Jaos 2025.

      

Japan’s Most Challenging 2026 RAV4 Appears to Pose a Threat to Subaru Enthusiasts | Carscoops

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Japan’s Most Challenging 2026 RAV4 Appears to Pose a Threat to Subaru Enthusiasts | Carscoops

The latest Toyota RAV4 Adventure has been enhanced with Jaos upgrades, new wheels, and a lift kit, but there won’t be any modifications to its performance.