Its introduction, however, was also, admittedly a surprise to most of us. Here was Toyota, the country’s number one, coming in late in the small SUV arena, yet setting another benchmark for the rest of the players to follow. Add “turbo” to the equation and the Raize offers enough excitement and power play to keep it on everyone’s list for months to come; never mind that there was a running waitlist at practically every dealership nationwide.

If you’re one of the lucky few to have gotten their hands on the much-coveted Toyota Raize, turbo or otherwise, you’ll soon realize that apart from being a solid, versatile, and exciting car, there is so much more that can be done with it. The Raize, after all, was designed for the practical, the driven, the independent, and the ambitious Filipino. The Raize owner is also one that has an undeniable creative spark, who likens his car to his own personality, where it serves and supports the lifestyle he leads.

That being said—what exactly can you do with the Toyota Raize? As one of the most versatile sub-compact SUVs there is, the Raize comes across as a canvas that inspires its owner to make it their own. Taking a cue from the consistent popularity of 4x4 off-road rigs, Raize fans have become keen in fitting their cars with accessories that would allow them to take to the outdoors for long weekender drives and barkada outings.

One of the recent upgrades that we took a look at that of Ryan Tan’s. As the founder and host of the popular YouTube channel, RealRyan, he chose to swap out his stock fog lights with 3-inch LED PIAA sport lamps and install 5-inch PIAA sport lamps against his front grille. He kept his tires stock, but changed up his wheels to 17-inch Carving Lover Soul rims that instantly gave the Raize a ‘90s JDM vibe. For Ryan, he wanted a look that would retain the classic, modern appeal of the Raize, but customized to have strong, rugged stance. It was a direction toward achieving a street-inspired look combined with a thrilling, off-road flair; one that you rarely get with a sub-compact SUV.

Like we said, the Toyota Raize may have been made for the city, but it won’t stop outdoor aficionados from attempting to take it on road trips or even camping — even if it’s just to see how far it can go! If you’re looking at the possibilities of setting up camp for even just a day or two, take a look at this awning fitment that Overland Kings, a specialty 4x4 and outdoor equipment shop in Parañaque, experimented on. Despite the Toyota Raize being considerably smaller and lower than a standard 4x4 vehicle, the awning option works as a great addition for an overlanding-themed set-up, whether used for actual glamping or as protection from unexpected weather changes.

Apart from raising the game, the Toyota Raize has undoubtedly changed the game, as well. As you spot more Raize owners getting creative with their rides, while maintaining the clean, signature motif that makes it one of the sought-after subcompact SUVs in the market. If you own a Raize — or, are eyeing one—how would you make it yours?