Select your preferred store for a more customised experience.
Toyota New Zealand Unleashes the Sportiest RAV4 Ever: RAV4 GR SPORT Plug in Hybrid
Overseas model shown.
Toyota New Zealand is raising the bar for sport performance SUVs with the introduction of the RAV4 GR SPORT Plug‑in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) – the sportiest, most dynamic, and most technically advanced RAV4 ever offered to New Zealand customers.
Inspired by GAZOO Racing, the RAV4 GR SPORT delivers a bold new expression of performance‑focused design, motorsport‑derived chassis engineering, and electrified power. Available exclusively with Plug‑in Hybrid All-Wheel Drive (AWD), it pairs everyday usability with genuine GR SPORT driving character.
The GR SPORT is aimed at drivers who want a sportier design, engaging on-road experience with sharper handling, but with the same SUV versatility. It’s for the customer who values performance as much as practicality.
“The RAV4 GR SPORT has had a vast number of engineering hours dedicated to its design which means it’s a powerful performance vehicle but meets the practical needs of an SUV,” says Tatsuya Ishikawa, CEO Toyota New Zealand.
Performance Powered by Plug‑in Hybrid Technology
At the heart of the RAV4 GR SPORT lies Toyota’s sixth‑generation plug‑in hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5‑litre petrol engine with front and rear electric motors to deliver a 227kW total system output – making it the most powerful RAV4 Toyota has ever built for New Zealand and Australia.
A 22.7kWh lithium‑ion battery enables extended electric driving capability for daily commutes, while seamless hybrid performance delivers no range anxiety, confident acceleration and overtaking on demand. AWD comes standard, ensuring assured traction and performance in all conditions.
GR SPORT Engineering: Tuned for Control, Confidence and Connection
Beyond power alone, the RAV4 GR SPORT benefits from 70,000 additional engineering development hours, focused on delivering a more engaging and confident driving experience.
Key GR SPORT dynamic performance enhancements include:
- Wider track width (+20mm) for greater cornering stability
- GR-exclusive mapping of electronic power steering Sport Driving Mode provides a more solid steering feel and feedback
- GR-tuned unique front and rear dampers and coil springs with 15mm lower ride height
- Front performance damper has also been added contributing to sharper handling characteristics, enhanced ride comfort and quietness
- Strengthened special rear suspension member braces have been added increasing rigidity and stability resulting in better control
- 20‑inch black and dark clear machined alloy wheels, each 2.2kg lighter than the RAV4 XSE Plug-in hybrid 20‑inch wheels.
The result is a RAV4 that feels more planted and responsive, with sharper turn‑in and greater composure through corners – while retaining the comfort and refinement expected of Toyota’s best‑selling SUV.
Bold GR SPORT Design Inside and Out
The RAV4 GR SPORT makes its performance credentials unmistakable with a distinctive, athletic design inspired by GAZOO Racing improving aerodynamics and downforce.
Exterior Highlights
- GR SPORT exclusive front bumper with a lower front spoiler and radiator grille
- GR SPORT large wing type rear spoiler improving aerodynamics and downforce
- GR SPORT exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels
- Red GR brake calipers with GR logo
- Dedicated GR SPORT badging.
The design delivers a wider, lower visual stance that reinforces the vehicle’s performance intent.
Interior Highlights
Inside, the RAV4 GR SPORT features a driver‑focused cabin combining premium materials with motorsport‑inspired detailing:
- GR-branded smart key
- GR-branded scuff plates
- GR‑branded heated steering wheel with paddle shifters
- GR SPORT synthetic leather and Brin Naub® microsuede seats with front seat heaters
- Aluminium sports pedals
- Exclusive suede and covered front knee pads
- Red contrast stitching and GR accents throughout
- GR-branding in meter.
Technology and convenience features include:
- 10‑way power adjustable driver seat
- Digital rear‑view mirror
- Head‑Up Display (HUD)
- Panoramic View Monitor
- 9‑speaker JBL premium audio system
- Dual wireless phone chargers
- Power back door with kick sensor
- 1500W power outlet.
Electrified Performance, GR Character
The RAV4 GR SPORT represents Toyota’s ongoing commitment to delivering performance without compromise, blending electrification, motorsport expertise, and everyday practicality in one compelling package.
“This is the most dynamic and performance‑focused RAV4 we’ve ever introduced to New Zealand,” says Tatsuya Ishikawa, CEO Toyota New Zealand. “The RAV4 GR SPORT showcases how electrification and driving excitement can go hand in hand, offering customers genuine GR sportiness with the versatility they expect from an SUV.”
Availability
The RAV4 GR SPORT Plug‑in Hybrid AWD is available to order now from Toyota Stores nationwide, priced from $66,990 TDP (incl. GST).
View on the Toyota NZ website.