Classy, RAV4-based Mitsuoka Buddy gets a detailed review in Japan

Japanese tune-up shop Mitsuoka caused quite an uproar when it unveiled its Buddy SUV based on RAV4 chassis and tech. The crowd bought out the entire initial production run of 200 units within four days. Here is a video explaining why it was such a huge success.

The whole preview is in Japanese, but you can still get a good general idea out of it. It is obvious, for example, that the tuner drew inspiration from U.S. off-roading classics like the 1990s-era Chevy Tahoe – note especially the chrome grille and the square headlamps. Moving on to the rear end, there is a new tailgate, a bumper, and taillights.

A peek inside will immediately let everyone familiar with the latest RAV4 know what model the car is built upon. Most of the equipment stays stock, but a new premium black leather trim with contrast stitching and piping gives the cabin a new atmosphere.

In its standard guise, the Mitsuoka Buddy comes powered by a 2.0-liter gasoline four-pot rated at 170 PS (168 hp / 125 kW) and costs a rough equivalent of $45,000 – about twice the sticker of the entry-spec RAV4. Opting for a 2.5-liter hybrid version and 177 PS (175 hp / 130 kW) will set you back $56,000. That said, it is not like you can buy one now, anyway: the production queue is full until 2023.