Toyota Vice Chairperson Manasi Kirloskar Posts Video Of Gorgeous New RAV4 SUV
Toyota holds a stellar reputation among Indian car and SUV buyers. It currently has a strong presence in the D-SUV segment and has products in various other segments as well. Manasi Kirloskar Tata is the vice chairperson of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, the Japanese giant's JV (Joint Venture) in India. She recently posted a video of the all-new RAV4 SUV on X (previously Twitter), following its global debut on May 21, 2025. While many absolutely loved the new SUV and wanted Toyota to launch it here immediately, others were not so positive.
One X user said, "It makes sense to bring RAV4 to India, and position it above hyryder. It will be a sure shot hit". Another added, "Please bring RAV4 to India".
Many comments asked Manasi why she was advertising a product that wouldn't make it to the Indian shores. Despite having an extensive array of products and diverse powertrains on sale in many global markets, Toyota has kept its India lineup short. It focuses heavily on Western markets. Some comments bring the same into notice. A user said " Will this be launched in India? If not, then Toyota doesn't take the Indian market serious enough yet!"
Another user remarked "Manasi believe me or not,but if u don't launch it within 2026, u will loose thousands of crores and vast potential to dominate in this segment where Harrier is struggling".
The RAV4 isn't really a high-end product. It competes with the Honda CRV, and has comparable dimensions. Toyota revealed the sixth-generation RAV4 in Tokyo. It gets a Camry-inspired design, and even comes with a GR Sport trim. Another notable bit is the improved hybrid powertrain lineup.
Sixth-Generation Toyota RAV4: A Closer Look At It
The sixth-generation SUV boasts revised styling. It is more upright than the generation it replaces. It gets new ‘Hammerhead’ lights at the front and at the rear. Some parts of the design could remind you of the Land Cruiser. The headlamps and fascia will also remind you of the new-generation Camry.
The silhouette inclines more towards the Land Cruiser's visual impression. The vehicle also gets thicker wheel arches, which hint at a greater degree of ruggedness and off-road prowess. Depending on the market, the new RAV4 could come with 17, 18, or 19-inch wheels.
The cabin hosts major changes, and so does the feature list. The dashboard design is new, and the steering wheel and AC controls look fresh as well. The SUV comes with a new 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system (an improvement over the predecessor's 12.3-inch unit). It features Toyota’s new Arene operating system. This platform will make an appearance on multiple future Toyota cars and SUVs as well. It also gets over-the-air (OTA) updates support as well.
Notable in the array of safety features offered, is a rear-approach monitor. It will help drivers to merge onto highways safely.
On the powertrain front, the new SUV will offer petrol, strong-hybrid and new plug-in hybrid options. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and All Wheel Drive (AWD) versions will be offered. The former will have a powertrain output of 268hp while the latter will have 304hp on tap. The plug-in hybrid will be able to do the 0-100 kph run in 5.8 seconds. It uses a 22.7kWh battery pack and will have an all-electric range of 100 km. Toyota claims that this battery pack will be able to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes.
The GR Sport variant is much sportier, and comes with larger lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels, a wider track, better dampers and stiffer springs. It has a strong focus on precise handling. The cabin gets sports seats, Aluminium pedals and GR badges. Some markets will also get a RAV4 Adventure version, which will have a wider track, a more upright front grille, and different wheel arch cladding- all enhancing its off-road appeal.
Now The BIG Question: Will It Come To India?
Well, Toyota is least expected to launch the new RAV4 in India. It had, however, evaluated the previous generations for the Indian market, but the launch never happened! Many comments asked Manasi about possible launch plans and timelines. She hasn't, however, responded to any such question...