ABU DHABI: For those of us who like to take their SUVs off the beaten path, Toyota has given us a new option in the form of the RAV4 TRD Off-Road. While it is based on the Adventure variant, this RAV4 derives its inspiration from the RAV4 rally car. For starters, there are no changes made under the hood and the engine is the same Dynamic Force 2.5-litre non-turbo. This mill produces 206 PS of power and 249 Nm of torque. The power is sent to the wheels via an 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission.

Suspension duties have been tinkered to provide the occupants with better ride quality. The system is designed to improve body control and provide isolation over small bumps, all while having a smoother ride on rough roads. To help the body control over larger bumps and dips, new bump stops have been added to maximize compression and directional wheel travel. Off-road focused red coil springs are also part of the package along with twin-tube shocks.

The grip is paramount for any off-roader and thus the TRD has new 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail all-terrain tyres. The new tyres have a special compound developed specifically for the TRD and feature a unique tread pattern. The open shoulder grooving helps in discarding the debris, mud, and snow. Another unique feature is the square shoulder design, which is there to protect against punctures.

Step inside the TRD Off-Road and you are greeted with the TRD badging throughout the cabin. The cabin features red accents and the seats are wrapped in SofTex. The material is said to be lighter than leather and is very durable. This is something we need in a car that boasts of ruggedness. On the exterior, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road has dual-tone paint jobs to give it a definitive look. You get the options of Magnetic Grey Metallic body with Ice Edge roof, Midnight Black / Lunar Rock with a white roof or Ruby Flare and Super White.