introduction

The Aoshima RAV4 is a nice kit right out of the box, but as with most kits a few extra details will really make a difference. Hobby Design makes a small upgrade set for this kit that addresses some areas that could use a little extra detail, and won't break the bank doing it.

contents

Packed in a re-closable sleeve attached to a card backing is:
• Photo etch fret
• 5 Resin seat belt buckles
• Instructions

the set

Front rotor faces are included which fit perfectly around the calipers, rear faces are also in the set although with these being drum brakes there really is no point for these. Front and rear factory license tags have both the L and J designations, whereas the base kit included decals. With raised lettering and an outside border these should look sharp when painted and lightly sanded to bring the raised areas out to a polished look. RAV4L and J body markings will look much better than the kit supplied decals too.

Both styles of front grills are included, with the Toyota emblem as a separate part. An emblem is provided for the steering wheel, along with side and rear view mirrors. A full complement of seat belt hardware in both PE and resin will dress up the interior, although nothing is included for the belts themselves, so you are on your own in that respect.

Front and rear wipers replace the thickly molded kit parts and will look much more realistic. As far as optional parts, the skid plate is done in PE and will look much more in scale. One piece on the fret has the RAV4 with the instructions showing to use it as a mold with CA glue, I'm not clear on the use of this so if someone can enlighten me it would be appreciated!

The instructions are simple and show enough to get through this small set.

conclusion

There is enough included in this set to provide ample detail to an already fine kit. I picked this up from Hobby Easy for $7.95 & .78 shipping.

The review of the Aoshima kit can be found here:

Aoshima RAV4 review