- GAC Toyota is preparing to launch a new generation of the Wildlander in China.
- Unlike its predecessor, the new model closely mirrors the design of the RAV4.
- Powertrain options include a 2.0-liter gasoline engine along with two hybrids.
In one of the world’s largest automotive markets, Toyota offers not one but two versions of its global bestseller, the RAV4. There’s the Wildlander, built through a joint venture with China’s GAC, and the more familiar RAV4, produced with partner FAW. Now, as the sixth-generation RAV4 makes its way into western markets, Toyota’s Chinese operations are preparing their own updated take on the compact SUV.
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The first images of the upcoming GAC-Toyota Wildlander have appeared online, courtesy of China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). Unlike the outgoing model, which featured distinct front and rear styling, the new Wildlander adopts the same overall design as the latest RAV 4but with some notable mechanical distinctions.
Subtle Design Differences
Aside from the “Wildlander” badging on the tailgate, the SUV is visually in line with the RAV4 Core trim. That includes a body-colored honeycomb grille and low-profile skid plates on both bumpers. Based on this design, it appears the more rugged RAV4 Woodland and Adventure trims, as well as the sportier GR Sport, won’t be offered to Chinese buyers under the Wildlander badge.
According to the specs listed in Chinese regulatory documents, the Wildlander measures 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) in length, 1,855 mm (73 inches) in width, and 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm (105.9 inches). While these figures are mostly in line with the RAV4 sold in Europe and North America, the small discrepancies aren’t fully explained by the photos alone.
Powertrain Options Broaden the Appeal
Where the Wildlander really separates itself from the RAV4 is under the hood. While the global RAV4 has moved entirely to electrified powertrains, the Chinese-market Wildlander retains an internal combustion engine option. That base setup uses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 169 hp (126 kW / 171 PS), available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
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In addition, two self-charging hybrid configurations are offered, though there’s no sign of a plug-in hybrid variant for now. One features a 2.0-liter engine generating 150 hp (112 kW / 152 PS), while the other upgrades to a 2.5-liter unit producing 182 hp (136 kW / 185 PS), both working alongside electric motors. The tailgate badging indicates that hybrid versions will come in both front-wheel-drive and E-Four all-wheel-drive setups.
The updated GAC Toyota Wildlander is expected to make its official debut in the coming months. It will likely be followed by FAW Toyota’s version of the RAV4, which, aside from the nameplate, should be nearly identical.
