While we normally cover vehicles that include a low-range transfer case, any time “TRD” and “Off-Road” appear in a Toyota vehicle trim package, we have to take a closer look. In this case, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road take cues from TRD Pro models (see our coverage here), with a few key upgrades to set this version apart from the RAV4 Adventure trim. It doesn’t hurt that the model is partially inspired by off-road and rally racer Ryan Millen’s RAV4.
This RAV4 does not include a radical new suspension or a hard core powertrain, but it does feature some upgrades that will help push it a bit further off the highway. Our readers know that when it comes to increasing capability of any vehicle, we usually recommend wheels, tires, and suspension as first steps. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road does just that.
The 18” TRD aluminum wheels (in a svelt matte black finish) hold Falken Wildpeak A/T tires. This is the first time real All Terrain tires have come from the factory on a RAV4, and will certainly help make this car more dirt-capable.
For the suspension, Toyota has specially TRD tuned internal twin-tube shocks with internal rebound springs. These are helped by TRD red coil springs and new bump stops to help improve body control. The RAV4 Off-Road features a respectable 8.6” of ground clearance, so we can see how this car could do OK on many of our favorite easy to moderate trails.
In lieu of a low range transfer case, the RAV4 features a Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system. That basically means that the computer can deliver power to the wheels that have traction, which will help the car maintain traction in slightly off-camber situations. The TRD RAV4 also includes Multi-Terrain Select, so you can choose between Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, or Snow modes. It’s not quite crawl control, but these features will likely be helpful. In addition, the RAV4 TRD Off- Road will include Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) for optimal on-road and off-road performance and safety.
Of course Toyota includes a fair amount of styling updates to set the TRD RAV4 apart. It’s available in two-tone Magnetic Gray Metallic w/Ice Edge Roof (FJ Cruiser roof, anyone?), Midnight Black, Ruby Flare Pearl, Super White, or Lunar Rock colors. Inside, red stitching and red trim make sure you know it’s a TRD model throughout the cabin. SofTex seats with TRD accents will likely be comfortable and durable. TRD all-weather floor mats and rear cargo mat round out the interior updates.
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0), which is standard on all 2019 RAV4 models, includes several active-safety technologies and capabilities:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Automatic High Beam (AHB)• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB) system will also be standard on the 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road.
The 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road won’t be your forever adventure mobile, but it really is a great upgrade for light-duty Off-Highway driving.
Combined with classic TRD styling, we expect this car to be a favorite for up-and-coming Toyota adventure enthusiasts. Also, at least it’s not the FT-4X
