Toyota has started implementing technologies in mass-produced SUVs that were previously found almost exclusively in sports cars. The new Toyota RAV4 received the Active Front Spats system — movable aerodynamic elements under the front bumper.
At first glance, they are impossible to notice. Small panels are hidden in front of the front wheels and automatically extend only at high speeds. The system was developed in collaboration with Aisin — one of Toyota's largest suppliers.
The main task is to reduce turbulence around the wheels. Wheel arches are considered one of the "dirtiest" areas in terms of aerodynamics. At high speeds, the panels direct the airflow to reduce drag and improve the efficiency of the hybrid system. And at low speeds, the elements retract to avoid compromising ground clearance and approach angle.
In fact, Toyota is bringing the philosophy of active aerodynamics, long used by Porsche, Ferrari, and McLaren, to the mass market. But if in supercars movable elements are needed for downforce, here the goal is different — fuel economy and increasing the range of hybrids.
This is especially important for the new generation RAV4. Starting from the 2026 model year, the crossover has completely abandoned purely gasoline versions and has become exclusively hybrid or plug-in hybrid. Therefore, engineers began to fight for literally every percentage of efficiency.
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