The Japanese giant is preparing a complete renovation for its most iconic sports utility vehicle, aiming to maintain its hegemony in the global market. The next lineage of the vehicle promises to break with the previous aesthetic conservatism, focusing on futuristic lines and the definitive extinction of versions powered exclusively by combustion. The project reflects the automaker’s strategy to accelerate the electrification of its portfolio, offering only electrified variants that combine energy efficiency with better performance.
Visual identity inspired by predators
The exterior design undergoes a radical transformation, adopting the aesthetic language known internally as “Hammerhead”, or hammerhead shark head. Esta new visual philosophy, already present in other recent models of the brand, features divided headlights with “C”-shaped daytime running lights at the top and main projectors positioned lower. The front grille has been redesigned to give it a more aggressive and aerodynamic appearance, aligning the SUV with the most modern and daring styling trends in the automotive industry.
End of purely combustion engines
One of the most impactful decisions for the new generation is the propulsion strategy, which eliminates gasoline-only options from the catalog. The model will be offered exclusively with conventional hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) packages, using an updated version of the 2.5-liter engine. Engineering focused on optimizing the battery and energy management, which should result in a combined power greater than the current 220 horsepower, in addition to providing extended electric autonomy for versions that can be recharged at the socket.
Digital and connected interior
The cabin receives a significant technological leap, focused on user experience and connectivity. The panel now features a floating multimedia center measuring up to 14 inches, equipped with faster operating systems and improved wireless integration for smartphones. The instrument panel becomes fully digital and customizable, while the interior finish gains soft-touch materials and reinforced acoustic insulation, ensuring a quieter and more sophisticated environment for the occupants.
Security and evolved platform
Built on the evolution of the global TNGA-K architecture, the vehicle promises greater torsional rigidity and a reduced center of gravity, which favors stability in curves. The active safety package has been updated with new sensors and high-resolution cameras, allowing the pre-collision system to detect pedestrians and cyclists more effectively, even at night. Adaptive cruise control has also received improvements to act more naturally in traffic, adjusting speed smoothly.
Market arrival schedule
Global planning indicates that the official presentation and the start of sales in the Estados Unidos and Japão will take place at the end of 2025. and Europeans who are also betting heavily on hybridization.
