At 10:00 AM on May 21, 2025, all eyes in the automotive industry will be on one spot. Toyota Motor Corporation has announced that it will hold a world premiere of a fully redesigned version of its globally popular SUV, the RAV4 . Prior to this announcement, the company has launched a teaser campaign, gradually revealing parts of the interior and exterior. Car enthusiasts are engaged in lively discussions about the car’s innovative design and the new technologies it will likely be equipped with.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the changes the new RAV4 will undergo, its appeal, and what we can expect from it, based on the teaser images and information that have been released so far.
The concept is “LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE”: New values demonstrated by the new RAV4
Toyota first presented the concept for the new RAV4 as “LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE.” This concept is scattered throughout the teaser images, suggesting that the new RAV4 will not only be a means of everyday transportation, but also a partner to enjoy all of life’s adventures. The first teaser campaign revealed an interior design that combined ruggedness and refinement, which seemed to embody this concept, raising expectations all at once. The second teaser finally lifted the veil on the exterior design, revealing parts of the front mask and rear design.
Unveiling the front mask: a fusion of hammerhead design and cutting-edge technology
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The first teaser image released shows the new RAV4 standing in what appears to be an American park. Although the area around the front grille is cleverly hidden by tree branches, it is clear that the car features the “hammerhead” design that Toyota has been actively adopting in recent years. This design is similar to that of the new C-HR sold in the US and European markets, and gives a sharp and advanced impression.
Toyota USA C-HR EV
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High expectations for the LED light system that creates a sharp look and safety technology
Of particular note are the “U”-shaped LED daytime running lights and the monocular LED headlights positioned inside them. This combination not only significantly improves visibility at night and in bad weather, but also increases visibility to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians, making a significant contribution to safe driving. There is also great interest in whether these headlights will be equipped with an Adaptive High Beam System (AHS) or the groundbreaking safety technology “Signal Road Projection (SRP),” which was first adopted in the facelifted new Corolla Cross. SRP is a system that communicates information to the driver and those around them more intuitively by projecting driving direction and warnings onto the road surface. If it is adopted in the new RAV4, it is expected to further improve safety.
In the image, a sign to the right of the vehicle reads “LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE,” symbolizing the car’s adventurous spirit. Looking more closely at the vehicle, the image suggests that the LED daytime running lights may feature a single letter design that connects in the middle. Additionally, headlight washers can be seen directly below the headlights, indicating consideration for ensuring good visibility in harsh environments such as rough roads or snowfall.
Toughness and refinement in the details: A look at grilles, skid plates, and liveries
The front lower grille adopts the Keen Look style, one of Toyota’s design identities, but its area is relatively small, and it is assumed that a grille in the same color as the body will be used at the top. A part that appears to be a skid plate with silver decoration can also be seen in the front lower part, emphasizing the toughness that is typical of an SUV.
The body color appears to be white in the image, but it is currently unclear whether this is the existing Platinum White Pearl Mica, Precious White, or an entirely new white color. The roof rails are finished in black, giving it a sharp impression. The area around the door moldings appears to be piano black, rather than the unpainted black plastic parts commonly found in traditional outdoor-oriented SUVs, giving it an urban, sophisticated feel. Furthermore, since there is no charging port visible on the left front fender of the model in this teaser image, it is highly likely that this vehicle is equipped with an internal combustion engine, possibly a hybrid (HEV) model.
Second teaser: Could this hint at powertrain diversity?
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It is thought that the black area directly below the headlight, which is different from the first image, is the headlamp.
Black accents around the headlights
The second teaser image released next captures the new RAV4 being used for winter sports. Again, a sign on the left side, seemingly indicating altitude, reads “LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE.” What’s particularly interesting about this image is that, unlike the first, it features a black accent directly below the headlights. This clearly differs from the headlight washers, sparking speculation as to whether this is a trim level difference or the addition of some new function. Given the significant body-colored portion of the front bumper, it’s likely that a body-colored grille will also be used. However, it’s possible that the front bumper design will change significantly depending on the trim level and powertrain.
Cleverly hidden left front fender: Possible appearance of PHEV/BEV
The most puzzling yet suggestive aspect of this second image is that the arm of the person in the foreground cleverly obscures the area around the vehicle’s left front fender. This could imply that the model shown in this image is a fully electric vehicle (BEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model equipped with a charging port on the left front fender. This speculation lends some credence to the fact that Toyota’s BEV, the bZ4X, also has a charging port on the left front fender. If this is the case, it is highly likely that the exterior design, particularly the design around the front mask, will be different between models equipped with an internal combustion engine and electric models such as BEVs and PHEVs. This image may be sending the message that even BEV and PHEV models, which have a clean impression, can be equipped with a roof rack and used to enjoy outdoor activities and winter sports to the fullest.
Is this a prelude to the GR SPORT grade? The bold roof spoiler and gloss black accents
However, what was even more surprising was the presence of the roof spoiler. It’s a large roof spoiler that could almost be called a rear wing, and is so bold it’s unimaginable from the image of the RAV4 to date. It’s unclear at this point whether this will be standard equipment on certain grades or whether it will be available as a manufacturer option, but some speculate that it may be an exclusive part for the high-performance “GR SPORT” grade. The GR SPORT is a sporty grade developed using the expertise of Toyota’s racing company, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing. If the GR SPORT is included in the new RAV4 lineup, it’s possible that in addition to exclusive interior and exterior designs, the suspension and powertrain will also be modified.
Toyota’s challenge to overturn conventional image
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Also noteworthy is that the front and rear fender moldings on the vehicle in this image are finished in gloss black, rather than unpainted black plastic. As the RAV4 has traditionally been an SUV with a strong outdoor orientation, it was expected that unpainted black plastic moldings would be used on many grades, but the vehicle in this teaser image emphasizes a more urban and sophisticated impression. These minor changes show Toyota’s strong desire to “break away from the conventional image of the RAV4 and appeal to new customer segments.”
The shape of the GR SPORT becomes clearer?
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Six teaser images of the new RAV4 have been released, revealing more details, the most striking of which is the image that clearly shows the front grille.
Aggressive front grille that is not the same color as the body
Previous predictions had been that the grille would be the same color as the body, but the images released show a more aggressively designed front grille that is not the same color as the body. This vehicle appears to be the same red RAV4 with a large roof spoiler that was shown in the previously released teaser image, and if this is the GR SPORT grade, it would make sense that it would have a dedicated front grille and front bumper.
The rear view has also undergone a dramatic transformation: the impact of OLED-style taillights and a large roof spoiler
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The fifth image in the second teaser campaign finally reveals part of the rear design. Even the plane trails are depicted with the words “LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE,” showcasing Toyota’s playful spirit and the passion that went into this car.
A unique taillight design unlike any other Japanese car
The most noteworthy feature here is the design of the taillights. They feature a vertical OLED (organic light-emitting diode)-style design, which is commonly used by Audis, and at first glance, it is a bold and innovative transformation that makes it hard to believe it is a traditional Japanese car. OLED taillights are characterized by their uniform, smooth light emission through surface emission and a high degree of design freedom, and if adopted, the rear view will have a significantly more modern and luxurious impression. The rear turn signals will also likely be LED, which is expected to achieve both visibility and design.
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Rear design details and confirmation of HEV model
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Additionally, the sixth image, which captures part of the rear design, shows a “RAV4” lettering badge located directly below the horizontally-oriented LED taillights that are not connected in the center. This makes the identity of the rear view even clearer. Another image shows the wheels and brake calipers of what is likely a hybrid (HEV) model. There is no charging port visible on the left front fender, and it is highly likely that the brake calipers will be simple single-push silver-painted.
Teaser images reveal the revolutionary new RAV4
What can be inferred from these teaser images is that the new RAV4 has undergone significant evolution in its exterior design, and is being reborn as a more advanced model that meets a wider variety of needs. The bold front mask with the adoption of a hammerhead design, the innovative rear view with OLED-style taillights, and the sporty parts that hint at the existence of the GR SPORT all suggest that the new RAV4 will be a vehicle that defies conventional wisdom. Furthermore, with regard to the powertrain, while HEV models will remain the main focus, it is possible that Toyota is also considering the introduction of PHEV and even BEV models, suggesting the increasing importance of the RAV4 in Toyota’s electrification strategy.
A teaser campaign is an extremely exciting time for car enthusiasts, as they imagine the big picture from fragmentary information and speculate on various possibilities. The teaser images released this time reveal a lot of information, but also create further mystery and a sense of anticipation, which is only building up anticipation for the world premiere.
Interior design teaser image
Looking at the interior design, the shape of the shift knob is electronically controlled, and an Electroshiftmatic (electronic shift lever) has been adopted, suggesting that gasoline vehicles will be phased out and the entire company will be electrified with hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
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The interior of the new RAV4 has evolved significantly from the current model, incorporating the latest technology and luxurious materials. This complete model change has resulted in the adoption of a 12.3-inch full digital LCD meter at the driver’s seat, with a large 14-inch or 12.3-inch display audio in the center. This advanced cockpit design provides the driver with excellent operability and visibility, resulting in a comfortable driving experience.
RAV4 teaser image
Furthermore, the new RAV4 focuses on improving the quality of materials, with luxurious interior materials and soft-touch surface treatments used throughout. Seat comfort has also been greatly improved, and the design reduces fatigue even on long drives. The effective combination of hard materials that give an SUV feel and soft padding that enhances comfort has resulted in an interior that combines functionality and comfort.
The interior of the new RAV4 combines cutting-edge technology with comfort and practicality at a high level, setting a new standard in the SUV segment. This advanced and sophisticated interior, made possible through a full model change, is an important element in further enhancing the appeal of the RAV4.
Simon Humphries takes to the stage! Everything revealed at the world premiere
At the world premiere, which will be held at 10:00 AM on May 21, 2025, Simon Humphreys, Director and Executive Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation, Chief Branding Officer and General Manager of the Design Area Division, will be on stage to give a presentation. We can’t wait for the moment when the head of design himself will talk about the appeal of the new RAV4, as well as all the information that was not revealed in the teaser images, such as detailed specifications, grade configuration, price, and release date, will be revealed.
A word from the editorial team: Expectations for the new RAV4, which heralds the start of a new adventure
The new RAV4 is set to make a major impact on the SUV market once again with its innovative design and advanced technology. Based on the concept of “LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE,” how will it appear before us as a partner that accompanies people’s lifestyles and supports them in all their adventures? Everyone from all over the world is eagerly watching the world premiere, where the full picture will be revealed. Anticipation is running high as to what new story the new RAV4 will weave, incorporating new design and driving appeal in addition to the reliability and practicality that the previous RAV4 has built.
