√2023 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport announced for Europe, Australia to be confirmed

The Toyota RAV4 now comes with a sportier option in Europe, with the addition of a GR Sport grade – for now it remains under consideration for Australia.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport has gone on sale in Europe – and is under consideration for Australia.

The Toyota RAV4 GR Sport models adds to special editions of the Yaris, Yaris Cross, Corolla, C-HR, and HiLux – all of which are offered in GR Sport trim in Europe.

Unlike performance models from Gazoo Racing – such as the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR86, and the GR Supra – GR Sport typically denotes sportier styling rather than a power upgrade.

To help differentiate the GR Sport from the rest of the RAV4 line-up, the model receives a black exterior trim pack, special badging, and black 19-inch alloy wheels.

The Toyota RAV4 GR Sport gains stiffer springs and shock absorbers, which the company claims will improve handling and deliver a “more engaging driving experience” for the driver.

Included in the special edition package is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and electric sports seats upholstered in black synthetic suede and leather with silver contrast stitching and GR Sport-embossed headrests – with the colour scheme extending to the rest of the interior.

A 10.5-inch touchscreen looks after infotainment duties, and provides a 360-degree camera view when parking.

Buyers in Europe have a choice of two engines in the RAV4 GR Sport: a hybrid 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder producing 163kW, or a plug-in hybrid 2.5-litre with 225kW and an electric driving range of 75 kilometres.

“We’re always considering exciting new models as they become available for our market, but we have no announcements to make today,” a spokesperson for Toyota Australia told Drive.

While there’s no confirmation on an Australia launch of the RAV4 GR Sport, there’s a strong possibility the model will eventually make its way here after being introduced in its domestic Japanese market.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport has gone on sale in selected European markets, with deliveries to begin by the end of this year.

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