2019 Toyota RAV4 Breaks Cover Testing in Southern California
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 has begun testing in Southern California, sporting a more rugged appearance.
The popular crossover is expected to get a more aggressive design, influenced by the FT-AC Concept that debuted at the 2017 New York Auto Show. Short for “Future Toyota Adventure Concept,” the FT-AC is an outdoor-inspired concept vehicle with plenty of ground clearance and all-terrain tires filling its overfender flares. While we don’t expect the RAV4 to have aggressive overfender flares – as you can tell by the prototype – it should get a more boxy shape to boost interior and cargo space.
SEE ALSO: 2018 Toyota RAV4 Pros and Cons
But one of the biggest changes heading to the new RAV4 is its platform. Like other recent new Toyota models, it will ride on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) that can be found on the Prius, Camry, and C-HR. That means a hybrid version is likely to be in the lineup, along with efficient Atkinson-cycle engines. To boost the rugged appearance of the RAV4, Toyota could offer a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system on the crossover.
Look for more details in the coming months, as the 2019 Toyota RAV4 should make its debut before the end of the year.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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All I see is grille. Looks like Toyota is determined to find the styling threshold of their devoted masses. Thats if there is a threshold. Maybe some day well learn this was one very large, very expensive psychology experiment.
repeat after me: V6, V6, V6!