What To Know
- The RAV4 achieves up to 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Crosstrek returns 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- In terms of features, the RAV4 offers a wider range of options, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.
- The Toyota RAV4 is slightly more fuel-efficient, achieving up to 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, compared to the Subaru Crosstrek’s 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to choosing a compact SUV that can handle both urban adventures and off-road excursions, the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Crosstrek are two top contenders. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between these two popular SUVs, examining their performance, features, and overall value.
Performance and Off-Road Capability
Both the RAV4 and Crosstrek offer all-wheel drive, giving them impressive off-road capabilities. The RAV4’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the Crosstrek’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
When it comes to off-roading, the Crosstrek has a slight edge with its higher ground clearance and X-Mode system, which optimizes traction and stability on uneven surfaces. However, the RAV4’s Trail trim level offers a more rugged suspension and all-terrain tires, making it a formidable choice for serious off-roaders.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Dynamics
The RAV4 and Crosstrek both offer comparable fuel efficiency. The RAV4 achieves up to 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Crosstrek returns 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
In terms of driving dynamics, the RAV4 offers a more refined and comfortable ride, while the Crosstrek feels more agile and engaging to drive. The RAV4’s suspension absorbs bumps and road imperfections with ease, while the Crosstrek’s stiffer suspension provides a sportier handling experience.
Interior Comfort and Features
The RAV4 and Crosstrek both offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. The RAV4’s cabin is more modern and upscale, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Crosstrek’s interior is more rugged and utilitarian, with waterproof seats and a durable finish.
In terms of features, the RAV4 offers a wider range of options, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. The Crosstrek comes with a more limited list of features, but it offers standard amenities like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Safety and Reliability
Both the RAV4 and Crosstrek have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come equipped with a range of standard safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
In terms of reliability, the RAV4 has a slightly better track record than the Crosstrek. J.D. Power has consistently ranked the RAV4 among the most reliable compact SUVs, while the Crosstrek has received mixed reviews.
Pricing and Value
The RAV4 and Crosstrek are priced competitively within the compact SUV segment. The base RAV4 starts at around $27,000, while the base Crosstrek starts at around $23,000. As you move up the trim levels, the price difference becomes more significant, with the top-of-the-line RAV4 Limited exceeding $40,000 and the Crosstrek Sport topping out at around $35,000.
The Verdict: Which SUV Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Crosstrek depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capability and a sporty driving experience, the Crosstrek is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more refined and comfortable ride, along with a wider range of features, the RAV4 is the better option. Both SUVs offer impressive value for the price, but the RAV4’s superior reliability and more comprehensive feature set give it a slight edge in our opinion.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which SUV has a better ground clearance?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a higher ground clearance of 8.7 inches, compared to the Toyota RAV4’s 8.4 inches.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota RAV4 is slightly more fuel-efficient, achieving up to 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, compared to the Subaru Crosstrek‘s 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota RAV4 has a slightly more spacious interior, with 37.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, compared to the Subaru Crosstrek’s 35.4 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Crosstrek have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Toyota RAV4 has a slightly better track record for reliability than the Subaru Crosstrek, according to J.D. Power.