Need a crossover SUV that’s both practical and stylish? The Toyota RAV4 2023 and Honda CR-V 2023 are two of the most popular options on the market. These vehicles are a favorite amongst drivers for their versatility, dependability, and comfort.
In this comparison, we’ll look at the RAV4 and CR-V, comparing everything from performance and safety features to interiors and technology. So strap in and join us as we explore what makes these two vehicles stand out from the crowd.
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Quick Comparison Table
Here’s a basic look at the main differences.
Factor | RAV4 2023 | CR-V 2023 |
Performance & Power | Better | Good |
Fuel Economy / mpg | Good | Good |
Exterior & Interior | Modern, no leather | Spacious, leather option |
Cargo Space | Less | More |
Infotainment & Connectivity | More features | Less features |
Safety & Security | More features | Less features |
Towing Capability | More | Less |
Driving Experience | Off-road, sporty | City, smooth |
Detailed Comparison: RAV4 Vs CR-V
Now, let’s talk about the deeper details.
Performance & Power: RAV4 Vs CR-V Which Suv Has The Edge?
Winner: RAV4
The Honda CR-V comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides a smooth ride and decent acceleration.
The Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers more power and better off-road performance than the CR-V.
The RAV4’s engine provides a seamless driving experience, thanks to its continuously variable transmission.
Fuel Economy/mpg: Which Gets Better Gas Mileage RAV4 Or CRV?
Winner: RAV4
If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient SUV, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are both excellent choices.
The CR-V boasts an impressive fuel economy of up to 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, making it the more fuel-efficient of the two SUVs.
The RAV4 is also fuel-efficient, with up to 27 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway for the front-wheel drive model.
The RAV4’s plug-in hybrid model offers an even better fuel economy of up to 94 MPGe.
Exterior & Interior: Is The CR-V Bigger Than The RAV4?
Winner: Tie.
The Honda CR-V is slightly larger than the Toyota RAV4, with more legroom and headroom for passengers. The RAV4, however, has a wider body, so it offers better stability and handling.
If you primarily drive alone, the RAV4 might serve you better as you can also park it more easily.
As for the interior, the RAV4 looks modern. It has some caveats though, the biggest ones being the seats. While it is comfortable to sit on, there are no leather options for the seats; you will only get faux leather.
For that level of luxury, you would have to choose the CR-V, which provides genuine leather seats.
Cargo Capacity: Which Suv Can Carry More – RAV4 Or CR-V?
Winner: CR-V
If you’re looking for a spacious SUV with plenty of cargo room, you can reliably go with either option.
The CR-V has 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while the RAV4 has 37.5 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded down, the CR-V offers up to 75.8 cubic feet of space, compared to the RAV4’s 69.8 cubic feet.
Infotainment & Connectivity: RAV4 Vs CR-V – Which Has Better Tech?
Winner: RAV4
You can get advanced infotainment systems with either option. That includes touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.
However, the RAV4’s touchscreen display is larger than the CR-V’s, with a 10.5-inch display compared to the CR-V’s 7-inch display. That makes it easier to use.
Overall though, both systems provide easy-to-use controls and a wide range of features to keep drivers and passengers entertained and connected.
The RAV4 also comes with an optional wireless charging pad and a JBL premium audio system, providing a high-end audio experience for music lovers.
Safety & Security: RAV4 Vs CR-V – Which Is The Safer SUV?
Winner: RAV4
Safety is a top priority for both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
Both SUVs come with an extensive suite of advanced safety features, including airbags, lane departure warning systems, and forward collision warning systems.
However, the RAV4 goes above and beyond, offering additional features such as a blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. These are not available on the CR-V’s base model.
The RAV4 also features an adaptive front-lighting system that enhances visibility and reduces the risk of accidents during nighttime driving.
Towing Capability: RAV4 Vs CR-V – Which Suv Can Tow More?
Winner: RAV4
If you’re looking for an SUV with towing capability, the Toyota RAV4 is the better choice.
The RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the CR-V can only tow up to 1,500 pounds. This makes the RAV4 a great option for hauling small boats or trailers.
The RAV4 gets even more points, as its stronger engine and torque add to the ease of towing.
Handling: RAV4 Vs CR-V – How Is The Actual Driving?
Winner: Tie.
Both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer a smooth and comfortable ride, with responsive handling and good steering feedback.
The RAV4 is better suited for off-road adventures, thanks to its higher ground clearance and available all-wheel drive systems. Its hill descent control system provides added control on steep declines.
The RAV4’s electric motor, turbocharger, and straight-four engine options provide plenty of power and sporty performance.
On the other hand, the CR-V’s continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive make it a more efficient and city-friendly choice.
Comfort, Reliability & Utility
Winner: Tie.
The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are both great all-rounders for those seeking a comfortable, and practical compact SUV.
Both models offer ample passenger space, impressive cargo capacity, and have a solid reputation for reliability. The CR-V provides more interior options and rear seat space, while the RAV4 boasts a sportier interior design and additional comfort and luxury options.
As for reliability, it’s hard to decide if Hondas or Toyotas are more reliable. Both brands are great and they always innovate with each new product. We’d say both the RAV4 and CR-V are equally reliable for general use- they get high reliability ratings every time.
Trim Levels and Price Value
Both SUVs offer 5 trim levels. The RAV4 comes with the usual ones, the LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims.
The CR-V’s ones are going to be different this year, though. Honda has reworked the trim levels into LX, EX, Sport Hybrid, EX-L and Sport Touring Hybrid trim levels.
Here are quick price lists for the trim levels of both SUVs. Keep in mind that the prices might change based on your location.
RAV4 Trim Levels
LE: $27.9k to $29.3k
XLE: $29k to $30.8k
XLE Premium: $31.9 to $33.7
Adventure: $33.7 to $35.5
TRD Off-Road: $37.1 to $38.9
There are other sets of specialized trim levels, but these are only for standard gas models. For most use cases, the features included in these trim levels are more than enough.
CR-V Trim Levels
LX: $29.7
EX: $31.1 to $32.3
Sport Hybrid: $32.4 to $33.6
EX-L: $33.7 to $35
Sport Touring Hybrid: $38.6 to $40.3
These are the only trim levels available for the CR-V, unlike the RAV4, which offers as many as 15 trim levels. You can’t get the LX trim easily either, it’s not as widely available in stores.
Which Is The Best Compact Suv For You: RAV4 Or Honda CR-V?
You’re probably asking yourself, “Is the Honda CR-V worth it?” If so, you’re not alone. Picking between the Honda CR-V and the even more popular Toyota RAV4 can be daunting, but it all boils down to your personal tastes and needs.
If you’re looking for an SUV with strong off-road capabilities and performance, the RAV4 is a great choice.
However, if you prioritize spacious interiors, ride comfort, and advanced safety features, the Honda CR-V is definitely worth considering.
While we believe the CR-V is a solid choice, you should still test drive both SUVs to pick which one is the best fit for you.
In the end, the perfect compact SUV is the one that meets your specific driving needs and gets you excited about hitting the road.
FAQs
Which is quieter, CR-V or RAV4?
The Honda CR-V 2023 is quieter than the Toyota RAV4 2023. Its higher trim levels have incredibly good soundproofing.
Does the Toyota RAV4 hold its value better than the Honda CR-V?
Yes, the Toyota RAV4 generally holds its value better than the Honda CR-V.
How long will a RAV4 last?
A well-maintained Toyota RAV4 can last for 200,000 to 250,000 miles, or about 12 to 16 years. Some owners have even reported getting over 300,000 miles.
How long will a Honda CR-V last?
A Honda CR-V can last for 250,000 to 300,000 miles with regular maintenance. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to push past 300,000 miles without needing to replace any original parts.
Are there hybrid options for the RAV4 and CR-V?
There are more than 7 trims with Hybrid configurations for the RAV4. The CR-V only has 2, though.
Are there any off-road options for either SUVs?
Yes, there is an off-road option available for the RAV4. The TRD Off-Road trim is specifically designed for this type of driving. However, the CR-V does not offer any such off-road options.
Can I get sportier versions from either lineup?
You can. CR-V has the Sport Touring Hybrid and the RAV4 has the GR Sport, though that’s still mostly exclusive to Europe as of the moment.
Final Thoughts
Both the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V are incredibly versatile and reliable crossover SUVs. However, they have different strengths.
The RAV4 excels in off-road performance and safety features, while the CR-V offers a smoother ride and a longer lifespan.
They’re both still similar in many ways, though, so you can have a fun ride after picking either option.
Sebastian loves convertibles and drove a BMW 335i for a long time (325 hp is just a dream). Today, with two children, he is more concerned with SUVs and family-friendly vehicles. In addition to an Audi A4 Avant, he also drives a Cupra Formentor VZ – even as a family man, you can’t do without speed. Get to know Sebastian better and visit the About Us page.
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