Japanese tuner Kuhl launched a comprehensive styling update for the Toyota RAV4 at the Tokyo Auto Salon, with a design inspired by military vehicles. The bodykit is called VRAVRA Mars and can be combined with off-road wheels and a suspension lift for better results. The Toyota RAV4 already has a factory-fit Adventure Off-Road package in Japan, but Kuhl’s take is admittedly more rugged and unique. The SUV is stripped of Toyota badges, making it harder to recognize due to the different design language of the many additional components.
The front end of the Toyota RAV4 is
completely redesigned, with the only carry-over part being the headlights. The
new grille is neatly integrated with the stock lighting units, while the lower
portion of the bumper is painted black adopting a rugged look similar to
offerings by Rezvani or heavily modified Wranglers. The new bonnet is heavily
sculpted and the front fenders are wider, doing away with plastic cladding.
Changes on the profile are focused on the
new 17-inch Vrarva DW wheels shod in Dunlop Grantrek AT5 all-terrain tires.
However, this is not the only change as the RAV4 gained new mirror caps, black
protective trim on the side sills, and body-colored rear fender add-ons
reminiscent of the Lamborghini Urus. The optional suspension lift kit improves
the off-road stance of the vehicle while making it more capable off the beaten
track in combination with the new tires.
The tail is equally impressive, mostly
thanks to the custom rear bumper. The lines of the rear fenders lead to large
decorative outlets and a diffuser-style treatment under the large tailgate. The
rear spoiler has been extended for a sportier look, while the stock taillights
got special covers and a new tailgate garnish with Vrarva lettering between
them. The tuner didn’t publish photos of the cabin, but interior modifications
are limited to new seat covers and floor mats.
According to the official website of Kuhl,
the cost for the 12-piece kit is ¥ 2,140,560 (US$ 16,608) including tax, painting,
and installation but the tuner is also offering the option of buying a complete
car from them. For example, a petrol-powered FWD Toyota RAV4 retrofitted with
all the aforementioned upgrades will cost you ¥ 4,290,000 (US$ 33,273) which is not
bad considering the extent of the modifications. Interested parties can select
the donor vehicle from the entire RAV4 lineup. Obviously, the most fitting
choice for such a rugged-looking vehicle would be an AWD variant with either
the hybrid or the more powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain.
