Toyota in Europe has revealed a new GR Sport version of the strong-selling RAV4. Question is, will the newcomer eventually launch in South Africa, too?

In South Africa, Toyota markets GR Sport versions of the Land Cruiser 300, Corolla Cross and Hilux (in addition to the full-fat GR Yaris and GR Supra, plus the upcoming GR86). Now the Japanese brand’s European division has revealed a new RAV4 GR Sport.

The GR Sport grade for the RAV4 – the world’s best-selling vehicle in 2021 – includes a sharper styling package and some handling tweaks, and is available on the Old Continent in conjunction with either the standard hybrid powertrain or the 225 kW plug-in hybrid set-up (which, incidentally, is currently being tested in SA). Both, of course, feature all-wheel drive as standard.

In line with this grade of Toyota’s GR product hierarchy, the new RAV4 GR Sport’s under-the-skin upgrades are limited to suspension adjustments, meaning there’s no extra power on offer from the engine (though the aforementioned Hilux breaks this rule, offering some added grunt). Still, Toyota promises the stiffer springs and shock-absorber settings lend the RAV4 a “handling boost” and offer a “more engaging driving experience”.

The model-specific grille features obligatory GR badging.

Meanwhile, the styling treatment includes piano-black wheel-arch trim, side mouldings and rear garnish, while the front end gains more prominent foglamp bezels featuring the same black G-mesh pattern as the grille. The front spoiler is finished in dark silver on the hybrid and gunmetal grey on the plug-in hybrid. In addition, obligatory GR badges have been applied to the grille and tailgate.

Toyota furthermore says the RAV4 GR Sport is the first model to feature alloy wheels finished using a new “ultra-precise” line-cutting technique. The 19-inch items have a gloss-black finish with fine bright machined pinstripe detailing on their 5-double-spoke design.

Inside, you’ll find sports front seats (complete with power adjustment) finished in “suede-effect” upholstery with synthetic leather bolsters, materials that Toyota says are “free from animal products”. The headrests are embossed black-on-black with the GR logo, while the seats, steering wheel and shift lever gain silver stitching. In addition, the cabin features gunmetal trim detailing on the doors and tiller, while the GR logo is repeated on the floor mats and ‘wheel.

While the new RAV4 GR Sport is set to launch in Europe towards the end of the year, Toyota South Africa Motors has yet to announce whether it has plans to offer the upgraded model on local shores. We’ll be sure to update this story if any new information comes to light.

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