Toyota inaugurated the GR lineup four years ago with GRMN at the top of the food chain, followed by cars carrying the GR suffix and the lower-tier GR Sport. Only the Yaris pocket rocket has received the full-fat GRMN treatment so far, while the GR has been used for the Corolla, 86, and Supra. As for the GR Sport, it is used extensively across the entire range of car manufacturers as you can even get a minivan of this specification in Japan.
The newest entry in the GR Sport family is the RAV4 for Europe where this compact crossover joins the GR Sport versions of the Yaris, Yaris Cross, C-HR, and even a Hilux pickup truck. Basically, it’s a style pack combined with minimal mechanical changes. The engineers have rearranged the suspension with stiffer springs and sport-tuned shock absorbers. Toyota promises this allows for better handling and a “more engaging driving experience.”
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The RAV4 flavor in the GR Sport is available with the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain and is visually distinguishable thanks to the trim wheel arches painted in piano black. The same finish was applied to the side moldings and rear door trim. Additionally, the front spoiler has a dark silver look on the hybrid and a gunmetal look on the PHEV.
A refined “GR” badge and updated fog lamp bezels are also provided for the new trim levels. Toyota says the RAV4 GR Sport is the automaker’s first model to feature wheels designed using “highly precise line cutting techniques.” The device measures 19 inches and has a glossy black finish with a dual five-spoke layout and bright engine line detailing.
Exclusive to the new class, the sportier front seats come with a suede-like upholstery with bolsters covered in synthetic leather. The “GR” logo adorns the headrests, while contrasting silver stitching is applied to the seats, shift lever and steering wheel. To spruce things up even further, Toyota installed gunmetal trim on the door cards and steering wheel. A panoramic monitor is standard, as are the electrically adjustable front seats with memory function for the driver’s seat.
As it is based on the RAV4 2023 sold in Europe, the GR Sport gets the latest 12.3-inch driver screen and 10.5-inch infotainment. The model year changes also come with a range of improved safety features, which now include a new Emergency Steering Assist system and an improved Pre-Collision System.
Toyota will sell the RAV4 GR Sport in Europe before the end of the year.
