Toyota's North American design and tuning agency (CALTY Design Research) oversaw the development of a new series of concept models named "Woodland" to explore new horizons for using its most popular vehicles on both paved and off-road paths. This step comes as part of the Japanese company's push to expand into the adventure and continuous four-wheel drive vehicle market in the United States.
The new concept family includes five main models: RAV4, Grand Highlander, Sienna, Crown Signia, and the all-electric bZ SUV. Through this lineup, Toyota aims to demonstrate how to integrate field capabilities with diverse powertrain systems including hybrid engines, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and all-electric battery systems.
Design characteristics and touches inspired by heritage
All concept cars in this series feature an exterior paint color called "Horizon Blue," a color inspired by classic Toyota models from the 1960s such as the "Stout," "Crown," and "Corona." The models are also equipped with an exclusive "Woodland" badge, a suspension lift package to increase ground clearance, extra-wide wheel arches, and matte black wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
To complete the outdoor adventure look, Toyota adopted a two-tone paint scheme on the roof and hood, in addition to a roof rack equipped with crossbars to secure sports equipment and gear. Models like the "RAV4 Woodland Plug-In Hybrid" and "Sienna Woodland" show how family and electric cars can play a more suitable role for outdoor trips.
Capabilities of the bZ Woodland electric model and performance figures
The "bZ Woodland" concept model represents Toyota's vision to expand into the field of all-electric off-road vehicles. According to announced data, the anticipated 2027 production version of the "bZ Woodland" relies on a standard all-wheel drive system with two electric motors, delivering a total power of up to 375 horsepower, which represents an increase of 37 horsepower compared to the standard all-wheel drive model.
- Ground Clearance: The vehicle's ground clearance reaches 8.3 inches (about 21 centimeters) to enhance obstacle crossing.
- Towing Capacity: The car can tow loads up to 3,500 pounds (about 1,587 kg).
- Exterior Modifications: Include black side protection, roof rails, and black wheel arch cladding.
- Trims and Pricing: It will be available in two trims (Base and Premium) with prices starting at $45,380 USD, an increase of over $10,000 compared to the base trim of the bZ car.
What changes practically for consumers and the sector?
This move demonstrates Toyota's desire not to rely solely on traditional bulky engines to deliver vehicles suitable for rough terrains, but rather to transfer the adventure car concept to electric and hybrid drive solutions. Toyota is scheduled to officially display this concept lineup to the public during the "SEMA 2026" automotive and tuning show, which kicks off on November 3.