Toyota RAV4 test mule spotted testing for the first time

This is the first sighting of Toyota’s upcoming RAV4 which was spotted in California, U.S. Now, going by the thorough camouflage, it looks like the brand has taken extreme measures to not reveal its popular crossover’s upgrades.

Although there are extra body panels fixed on the test mule, the basic silhouette of this prototype shows that the design is quite different from the current RAV4. The new design elements include a reshaped front fascia with a new grille and a redesigned set of head lamps. You will also notice the squared-off wheel-wells, a less sloping roofline and the restyled tail lamps with new internals. All these traits put together give a more rugged appeal to the newcomer.

Sources confirm that the new RAV4 will ride Toyota's TGNA platform which currently underpins the Camry, C-HR, and Prius. Despite Toyota being tight-lipped about the drivetrain options on the new RAV4, it is speculated that a hybrid powertrain will ultimately find its way to the line-up. With the current Toyota RAV4 selling in strong numbers in the U.S. market even today, a lot is riding on the successor’s shoulders. Toyota is likely to debut the new RAV4 later this year so stay tuned for the details.