As the fifth and newest generation of Toyota’s iconic family SUV, the RAV4 XA50 has become a hugely popular 4WD vehicle since its launch in 2018. Compact yet quite capable for light off-road or agricultural use, it’s no wonder that the Gen 5 is the 4×4 of choice for families, campers, farmers and green laning enthusiasts.
Even petrol heads are impressed with the Series 5’s capabilities both on the road and off, which is surprising considering its hybrid status! We’ll let What Car? explain how the RAV4 is different from other gas-guzzling SUVs:
“This large SUV really is one of the most efficient models in its class… The RAV4 is a hybrid car so you fill it up with petrol in the normal way, but as well as an engine, there’s also an electric motor to share the effort and cut fuel consumption. You can have it as a regular hybrid that charges up as you drive or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which gives you the option to, well, plug it in for a much longer electric-only range.”
Yes, the Toyota RAV4 XA50 is pretty brilliant, but there are upgrades you can make to ensure it delivers whether using it off-road or on an upcoming camping trip.
1. Go inflatable with your rooftop tent
There are many advantages to using a rooftop tent. It is the way to up your off-road camping game, with the safety, security and ease of assembly certain to be appreciated when pitching up after a long day of driving. But did you know that rooftop tents are also available as inflatables?
The clever, innovative design developed by the Swedish brand Dometic makes erecting your roof tent even quicker. Their TRT 140 AIR 12v Inflatable Roof Top Tent with Optional Awning is suitable for use with any car or 4WD vehicle, including the Toyota RAV4 XA50. It also inflates in just 100 seconds so you can hit the hay within minutes of arriving on-site.
2. Put recovery first with an electric winch
Thinking of the worst-case scenario can get you out of some pretty sticky situations, especially if you’re a fan of off-roading. By investing in the Warn VR Evo 8 8,000lb Electric Winch Kit with Steel Rope Fairlead Remote Control, you can enjoy a reliable, robust, IP68-rated waterproof, remote controlled and easy-to-use winch that’s affordably priced and compatible with your Series 5 RAV4.
3. Stock up on more self-rescue essentials
Find everything you need in one handy bag with the ARB Premium Recovery Kit. This kit contains all the essentials for off-road travel and self-recovery, including a 17,500lb snatch strap, tree trunk protector, winch extension strap, recovery damper, leather recovery gloves, D-shackle, and snatch block.
4. Keep things cool when travelling off-road
The Gen 5’s light off-road capabilities make it different from any other family runaround. When travelling off-road or camping far from home, keeping those food and drink supplies fresh for the entire journey is vital. The Dometic CFX3 25 Outdoor Active Cooling Compressor Portable Fridge Freezer provides a 25-litre capacity to do just that, wherever your adventure takes you.
You’ll also find a selection of spares and accessories for Dometic coolers, including covers, tie-down straps and fridge slides.
5. Wake up your RAV4 with an award-winning gadget
If you want the whole package – i.e. performance and practicality – you’ll want to invest in an EVC Throttle Controller. Designed and developed with the Toyota RAV4 Series 5 XA50 2018-on in mind, this tiny upgrade delivers big results, with improved throttle response, reduced throttle lag, better acceleration and enhanced overall driving experience all made possible.
Find more upgrades for your Toyota RAV4 XA50 by browsing our collection here.
