RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Toyota Motor Corp. has selected an 18-inch all-terrain version of the Falken Wildpeak tire as an original equipment on the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road specialty vehicle.
The RAV4 TRD is a new model for the vehicle, and Toyota said it will feature a number of unique components to improve its performance and capabilities.
A retuned suspension with enhanced rebound control and springs with revised spring rates mean better ride quality for tackling gravel-covered fire roads, TRD said, along with a 2.5-liter, 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine, 8-speed transmission, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (TV-AWD) and Multi-terrain Select setting.
The RAV4 TRD will be assembled by Toyota Motor North America and fitted with Falken's Wildpeak A/T Trail 01A, size 225/60R18, mounted on flow-formed 18x7-inch matte black TRD alloy wheels.
Falken said tires for the vehicle will be manufactured in Japan starting in the third quarter.
David Colletti, Falken's vice president, original equipment, said the brand is "very pleased to support Toyota with this product."
The Wildpeak A/T Trail is Falken's first all-terrain tire specifically developed for crossover vehicles.
"Most tire manufacturers typically target trucks and SUVs with their all-terrain product," Mr. Colletti said. "But increasing demand for both rugged and capable crossovers requires the need for a tire earmarked for this category and vehicle.
Falken said the aftermarket version of this tire will be called the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail. The tire maker said its rugged aesthetics support modern CUV, and that the tire offers off-road and snow capability and durability.
The A/T Trail will be available in 30 sizes with official sales starting late 2019.
Toyota Racing Development (TRD) is the in-house high performance operation for Toyota and its sister brand, Lexus, handling the development of various tuning products and accessories, including performance suspension components and wheels. TRD also supports Toyota's racing interests around the world.
Falken is part of Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd.