2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Honda CR-V

• 2022 Toyota RAV4

  

  Starting at

  $26,975^[a]

  2022 Honda CR-V

  

  Starting at

  $26,800

  203	Horsepower (hp)	190
  184	Torque (lb-ft)	190
  27/35	Fuel Economy (city/hwy mpg)	28/34

  Crossover SUVs have become increasingly popular due to their versatile nature. Built on the unibody chassis construction found on most passenger vehicles but boasting the cargo area and performance features of utility vehicles, they’re excellent vehicles for those who need a little bit of everything. Traditionally made for paved roads but sometimes equipped with packages and features that make them off-road ready, crossover SUVs are ideal for those who spend time both in the city and exploring off the beaten path. When drivers are looking for a crossover that’s easy to handle, has a nimble, sporty feel, and is loaded with passenger comforts, it often comes down to the 2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Honda CR-V.

  These are both affordable crossovers that come in a range of trims, ranging from base-level options that still have everything you need for everyday life to hybrids that are kind to the environment and save you money at the pump to sportier trims that are ready for adventure off the pavement. Drivers who like to cover a variety of terrain will do well in one of these crossover SUVs; not to mention their passengers will be comfortable, too, thanks to tons of cargo space for personal belongings and infotainment features. We put these two side by side and compared some of their main features, including cargo, comfort, and performance, to help you make a more informed buying decision. Let’s take a deeper look at both SUVs.

• Performance

  

  We will start with performance since power and capability are some of the main reasons people upgrade from a sedan to a crossover. Make no mistake: these are both great performance vehicles. In fact, drivers have praised both for having responsive steering and having an overall smooth ride while delivering impressive ability.

  Engines

  The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offers a single engine option, and although this may seem limiting, it offers plenty of strength and capability. Each RAV4 is equipped with a 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing an impressive 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. It can also tow up to 3,500 lbs, making it more than capable of handling everyday tasks an average crossover SUV driver would need it for. The CR-V also offers a single engine option with a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), producing 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, for the CR-V, it falls short in the category of towing capability, with the ability to only haul up to 1,500 lbs.

  Fuel Economy

  Fuel efficiency is also an important factor that is sometimes a make-or-break feature for those looking at various SUV models. Looking at the RAV4, in front-wheel drive, it gets 27 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. Even more impressive is that it retains these spectacular fuel economy numbers in all-wheel drive, with an estimated 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The CR-V also offers competitive fuel efficiency in front-wheel drive, with an estimated 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. In all-wheel drive, it gets 27 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. Although there is a slight difference in mileage between the two, both have proven themselves to be fuel efficient and can cut down on the amount of stops drivers make at the pumps.

• Cargo

  

  In addition to enhanced performance, another reason many drivers like crossover SUVs is their excellent cargo space. From spacious trunks to foldable back seats to those convenient little compartments found throughout the vehicle, these are great road trip and carpool cars because everyone can keep their essential items near them during their travels.

  Cargo Space

  The 2022 Toyota RAV4 and the 2022 Honda CR-V have 60/40 split-folding rear seats that allow you to create additional storage space beyond the trunk when you need it. Some drivers have found that they can get a total of 10 carry-on suitcases in the trunks of both of these options. However, when examining this space further, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 has 37.5 cu.ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats, while folding the rear seats down creates 69.8 cu.ft. of space. The CR-V wins the cargo competition, with an available 39.2 cu.ft. of space behind the rear seats and 75.8 cu.ft. of space when folded down. Although the CR-V leads with a few more inches, the RAV4 still offers ample cargo room.

  Compartments

  For many drivers, it’s sometimes the little things that make a vehicle stand out. For example, both SUVs have ample cupholders, but the Toyota CR-V has both dual cup holders and bottle holders for front and back seat drivers, giving a little extra space to keep a variety of beverages. Each car boasts a spacious center console for keeping those small odds and ends like phone chargers and snacks. All in all, we believe drivers will be content with the cargo area and compartments of each of these cars, with the CR-V utilizing space for more specific belongings.

• Comfort

  

  Because crossover SUVs are often a choice vehicle for long road trips, they need to boast features that will keep both driver and passengers comfortable for long stretches. You don’t want to arrive at your destination with cranky passengers who didn’t enjoy the ride and may not enjoy the destination.

  Climate Control

  Each vehicle has a climate control system throughout its trims; however, you need to go beyond the base trim on both SUVs to get dual-zone automatic climate control. The base level trim of the Toyota RAV4 does stand out in this category with its pollen and dust filters to keep the air feeling clean inside the cabin. This feature is located in both the center console and rear seats, depending on which trim you purchase, ensuring that all passengers breathe clean air.

  Device Charging Options

  Today, passengers expect to be able to plug in, power up, and use their devices freely, especially on the long types of trips crossover SUVs are so popular for. That will not be a problem in the 2022 Toyota RAV4, which has three standard USB ports; one in the front storage tray and two in the center console. This can reduce any conflict over who gets to charge their tablet next. The 2022 Honda CR-V, unfortunately, has just one standard USB port in the front console, which is a slightly outdated choice by Honda.

  Infotainment

  Honda also falls behind on infotainment. Their CR-V touchscreens are underwhelming, starting at a meek five inches for lower trims and only going up to seven inches. On the Toyota RAV4, the lowest trim already has a seven-inch screen, increasing to eight inches on higher trims. Many drivers have also noted that the infotainment and navigation system of the Honda is slow to respond and awkward to use. Meanwhile, the Toyota RAV4 touchscreen is sleek and intuitive.

  Connectivity

  Both have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, but the Toyota comes out on top again here with its included 4G LTE mobile hotspot. It also has an optional package with a great navigation system that also includes a premium audio system and a wireless charging pad. And even those who choose not to get this package on the Toyota will enjoy Scout GPS link on their vehicle, which lets compatible smartphones show maps and turn-by-turn directions on the screen. When it comes to infotainment and tech, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 far outshines the 2022 Honda CRV.

Come Experience the 2022 Toyota RAV4 for Yourself