
Toyota is always looking for new ways to help you take on every adventure. A new small off-road Toyota SUV would do the trick nicely, and it seems like we’re close to having that become a reality. Automotive News(subscription required) reported in July that Toyota is planning to build a “new, yet-to-be-announced SUV” at its Huntsville, Alabama, plant, helping give the automaker one of the most versatile and dynamic lineups anywhere.
This not-yet-official SUV would fall right between the RAV4 and the C-HR in size and capability, leveraging the TNGA-C platform that underpins the latter as well as the 2020 Toyota Corolla and Prius. It would likely feature a more rugged look and available all-wheel-drive capabilities, making it a no-brainer for drivers who want 4Runner- or Land Cruiser-like capabilities in a smaller ride.
It’s suggested that the final product might look a lot like the FT-4X Concept that Toyota brought to the 201 New York International Auto Show. When that concept debuted, Toyota said it would look at the reaction from dealers and the public before going ahead with any sort of production. We gave it a big thumbs up at the time, and we’re hoping that there was enough of a consensus that it will now serve as the foundation for a new small off-road Toyota SUV.
Whether we see a new small off-road Toyota SUV at Robbins Toyota sooner, later, or ever, time will tell. In the meantime, if you want the rugged and raw power of the Toyota RAV4, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser, stop in and take one for a spin.