What To Know
- The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 both come loaded with a variety of features and technology to keep you connected and entertained on the road.
- The CR-V has a slight edge in terms of standard features, with a sunroof, heated front seats, and a power liftgate all coming standard.
- The CR-V has a slight edge in terms of fuel efficiency, interior space, and ride quality, while the RAV4 has a slight edge in terms of performance, safety features, and price.
In the realm of compact SUVs, two names stand above the rest: the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4. These two vehicles have been locked in a fierce battle for market dominance for years, each offering a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and style. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 head-to-head to determine which one comes out on top.
Performance and Efficiency: A Close Race
Under the hood, both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer a range of engine options to suit different driving needs. The CR-V’s base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. In terms of performance, the RAV4 has a slight edge, with a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds compared to the CR-V’s 8.6 seconds. However, the CR-V is more fuel-efficient, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway compared to the RAV4’s 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway.
Interior Space and Comfort: A Matter of Preference
When it comes to interior space, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are very evenly matched. Both vehicles offer seating for five passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The CR-V has a slight advantage in cargo space, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The RAV4 offers 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. In terms of comfort, both vehicles offer well-cushioned seats and a quiet ride. However, the CR-V has a slight edge in terms of ride quality, thanks to its independent rear suspension.
Features and Technology: A Battle of the Gadgets
The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 both come loaded with a variety of features and technology to keep you connected and entertained on the road. Both vehicles offer a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a suite of safety features such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The CR-V has a slight edge in terms of standard features, with a sunroof, heated front seats, and a power liftgate all coming standard. The RAV4, on the other hand, offers more advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, as standard.
Safety: A Top Priority for Both
Both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The CR-V received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the RAV4 received a four-star overall safety rating. However, the RAV4 received a slightly higher score in the IIHS’s side impact test. Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
Price and Value: A Question of Budget
The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are both priced very competitively, with a starting price of around $26,000. However, the CR-V offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which means that you can find a model that fits your budget and needs. The RAV4, on the other hand, has a more straightforward trim level structure, which makes it easier to choose the right model for you.
The Verdict: A Close Call, But One Comes Out on Top
In the end, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a lot of value for the money. The CR-V has a slight edge in terms of fuel efficiency, interior space, and ride quality, while the RAV4 has a slight edge in terms of performance, safety features, and price. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
- Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4?
A: The Honda CR-V has better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway compared to the RAV4’s 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway.
- Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4?
A: The Honda CR-V has more cargo space, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down compared to the RAV4’s 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
- Q: Which SUV has more standard features, the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4?
A: The Honda CR-V has more standard features, with a sunroof, heated front seats, and a power liftgate all coming standard.
- Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating, the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4?
A: Both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Q: Which SUV is more affordable, the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4?
A: The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are both priced very competitively, with a starting price of around $26,000. However, the CR-V offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which means that you can find a model that fits your budget and needs.