The 2025 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Honda CR-V stand as titans in the affordable family vehicle market. These crossover utility vehicles perfectly blend fuel efficiency, interior space, and versatility, appealing to families who don’t require a third row and are mindful of budget. A closer look at these models, from overarching features to granular specifications and pricing, reveals the enduring popularity of these vehicles, even amidst evolving brand reliability rankings.
Crossovers like the CR-V and RAV4 have effectively replaced sedans as the go-to choice for smaller families. They offer a car-like driving experience with enhanced handling, a touch of ruggedness for light trails, and increased ground clearance. Their adaptable interiors and slightly elevated seating position simplify entry and exit, improve access to children and car seats, and ease loading groceries. In an era where the average new car price nears $50,000, both the CR-V and RAV4 remain accessible, ranging from approximately $30,000 for base models to around $40,000 for fully equipped versions, including fuel-efficient hybrids.
A notable exception is the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. This variant boasts a more potent 302-horsepower hybrid system coupled with an 18.1-kWh battery, delivering an impressive 42 miles of all-electric range on a full charge. This model leads the RAV4 lineup in performance and innovation, offering a unique feature absent in the Honda CR-V range.
Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4: Price and Feature Comparison
- Entry-level models for both start around $30,000
- RAV4 offers a Plug-in Hybrid variant
- CR-V Hybrid available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive; RAV4 Hybrid exclusively AWD
- Top recommendations: CR-V LX or Sport Hybrid, RAV4 XLE or XLE Hybrid
Honda CR-V Pricing and Trims
The Honda CR-V begins at approximately $31,000 for the base LX front-wheel-drive configuration. Standard features include keyless start, adaptive cruise control, LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Across the entire CR-V lineup, including hybrid models, all-wheel drive is available for an additional $1,500.
Moving up the trim levels, the mid-range EX and EX-L versions enhance comfort and convenience. The EX trim adds a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, a sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, and 18-inch wheels. The EX-L marks the introduction of the larger 9.0-inch touchscreen in the non-hybrid range and further includes eight-speaker audio and wireless smartphone charging.
The CR-V Hybrid models are offered in Sport and Sport-L trims, distinguished by sportier blacked-out styling and black 18-inch wheels, and feature the smaller touchscreen. The Sport-L trim elevates the experience with a power tailgate, leather upholstery, and wireless device charging. At the top of the range is the CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid, priced around $42,000, which adds Bose audio, 19-inch wheels, and integrated navigation. Options across the CR-V lineup are largely limited to premium paint colors, a tow hitch, and various cargo accessories.
Toyota RAV4 Pricing and Trims
Excluding the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, the Toyota RAV4 lineup presents a broad selection of front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive gasoline models, alongside all-wheel-drive Hybrid versions. The RAV4 starts at around $30,000 for the base LE trim and extends to approximately $41,000 for the Hybrid Limited AWD. For non-hybrid models, upgrading to all-wheel drive costs $1,400 across the lineup.
The base LE trim includes 17-inch steel wheels, adaptive cruise control, a comprehensive suite of active safety features, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The RAV4 XLE, starting at $31,680, adds a power-adjustable driver’s seat, blind-spot monitors, and alloy wheels, with optional upgrades like heated seats and a sunroof. The XLE Premium model, priced at $34,425, further includes synthetic leather upholstery and automatic climate control.
Hybrid models begin with the Hybrid LE at approximately $33,000—a mere $1,650 premium over a non-hybrid LE AWD at the time of writing. The XLE Hybrid approaches $35,000 and, with optional heated seats, may satisfy the needs of most RAV4 shoppers. The non-Plug-in Hybrid RAV4 range culminates with the $41,600 Hybrid Limited, potentially reaching $44,000 with options like a panoramic roof, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an Advanced Technology Package featuring wireless device charging, hands-free tailgate operation, and a surround-view camera system.
Between these trims, the Hybrid SE also emerges as a compelling mid-level value option around $36,000, while the Plug-in Hybrid commands a price near $50,000.
Pricing Advantage: Toyota RAV4. AWD in high-mpg hybrid form is more accessible.
Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V: Dimensions and Cargo Capacity
- CR-V is slightly longer and lower than the RAV4
- CR-V offers superior cargo volume with seats up or down
- RAV4 is marginally taller and, in some trims, provides greater ground clearance
The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are virtually identical in size to each other and to competitors such as the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester. The Toyota RAV4 measures roughly 181 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 67 inches in height across most variants, with a wheelbase of about 106 inches. The CR-V is slightly larger at approximately 185 inches long, 74 inches wide, and 67 inches tall, also riding on a 106-inch wheelbase.
This difference in dimensions translates to a more spacious cabin in the CR-V, a fact reflected in both official measurements and perceived space. While the RAV4 cabin feels somewhat more upright, the CR-V’s interior simply feels more expansive, both in the front and rear seating areas. Numerically, the CR-V boasts a passenger volume of 103.5 cubic feet, compared to the RAV4’s 98.9 cubic feet. In terms of cargo space, the RAV4 provides 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and nearly 70 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, the CR-V surpasses these figures with approximately 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Anecdotally, while the RAV4’s rear seats fold relatively flat, the CR-V’s do not quite achieve a perfectly flat cargo floor.
In terms of real-world comfort and usability, the RAV4 falls slightly short in front-seat comfort, where the CR-V’s seats offer enhanced support and overall comfort. Rear door openings are also more generous in the Honda, facilitating easier ingress and egress. Furthermore, the CR-V’s seating position and roofline may better accommodate taller rear passengers compared to the Toyota.
Size Advantage: CR-V.
Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V: Towing Capabilities
- RAV4 Adventure and RAV4 TRD trims can tow up to 3,500 pounds
- CR-V Hybrid’s 1,000-pound towing limit might be restrictive for those considering occasional towing
- Even Toyota’s hybrid models offer respectable towing capacity
The RAV4 Hybrid is rated for towing up to 1,750 pounds, while most gasoline models are rated at 1,500 pounds.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid further enhances towing capability, rated up to 2,500 pounds.
Conversely, the CR-V’s towing capacities are somewhat lower—up to 1,500 pounds for non-hybrid versions. Its continuously variable transmission (CVT) may not be as well-suited for towing as the RAV4’s 8-speed automatic transmission. While the CR-V Hybrid’s instant torque and electric-dominant propulsion might seem advantageous for towing, Honda rates this system at a mere 1,000 pounds—suitable only for light-duty trailers.
Towing Advantage: Toyota RAV4.
Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4: Off-Road Prowess
- RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims are discontinued in the current lineup
- Both models offer approximately eight inches of ground clearance in most configurations
- Hybrid versions feature distinct all-wheel-drive systems
The Honda CR-V provides 7.8 inches of ground clearance in front-wheel-drive guise and 8.2 inches with all-wheel drive. The RAV4 lineup exhibits slightly more variation in ground clearance depending on the trim. Choosing a RAV4 grants you up to 8.1 inches of ground clearance.
All-wheel-drive CR-Vs utilize a mechanical all-wheel-drive system to distribute power to the rear wheels as needed, regardless of whether they are hybrid or not. Non-hybrid all-wheel-drive RAV4s employ a similar system. However, RAV4 Hybrid models incorporate a separate electric motor at the rear wheels, integral to the hybrid system but not mechanically linked to the engine or front transaxle. Both systems have their respective strengths and weaknesses, but practical experience suggests the RAV4 Hybrid’s AWD system demonstrates impressive sophistication, particularly in typical AWD scenarios like snowy driveways.
Off-Road Advantage: Toyota RAV4, despite the absence of dedicated off-road trims in the current lineup.
Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V: Safety Ratings and Features
- Both models achieve generally favorable safety scores, with some areas for improvement
- RAV4 demonstrates slightly better overall crash-test performance
- Both are recognized as 2024 IIHS Top Safety Picks
- Blind-spot monitors are standard on all CR-V trims but optional on RAV4
Both the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V offer strong safety ratings and features, though neither is without minor blemishes. The RAV4 secured a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA NCAP program. However, it earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, rather than the высшая Top Safety Pick+, due to an “Acceptable” rating in the updated side-impact test.
The Honda CR-V’s IIHS performance is slightly weaker, with a “Poor” rating in the updated moderate overlap frontal test, despite achieving a “Good” rating in the updated side-impact test. Like the RAV4, the CR-V family receives a five-star NHTSA rating, composed of a mix of four- and five-star scores across different evaluations.
Both models come standard with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control, along with headlights that have performed well in tests. Blind-spot monitors are not standard on base trims of either vehicle. However, challenging rearward visibility and the absence of a standard surround-view camera system place the CR-V slightly behind in this category.
Safety Advantage: Toyota RAV4.
Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4: Performance and Driving Dynamics
- Non-hybrid powertrains: CR-V features a 1.5-liter turbo-4 with CVT; RAV4 uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 with 8-speed automatic
- RAV4’s driving feel varies considerably across different trims
- All CR-V variants offer superior ride and handling characteristics
The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer comparable power and performance figures. However, from their non-hybrid to hybrid versions, they employ distinct powertrains and deliver power to the wheels in fundamentally different ways.
The CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbo-4 engine produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), it may not offer rapid acceleration, but it provides smooth and adequate power for daily driving and highway maneuvers. Honda has refined this powertrain combination, incorporating simulated “steps” to mimic gear shifts in the CVT. For drivers who prioritize smoothness and quietness over outright speed, it proves to be a satisfying setup.
Base RAV4 models are equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine generating 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the 8-speed automatic transmission responds well, the overall powertrain lacks refinement and tends to be somewhat noisy and unpolished. Ultimately, it does not translate to significantly quicker 0-60 mph times compared to the Honda (both achieve around eight seconds).
Both the RAV4 and CR-V reach their zenith in hybrid form. For a modest upfront price increase, hybrid versions deliver enhanced performance, improved refinement, and significantly better fuel economy. Toyota’s hybrid system includes a dedicated rear-wheel motor, producing a combined 219 horsepower, making the SUV considerably quicker than the modest power increase over the base engine might suggest. Honda’s hybrid system utilizes two electric motors—one directly drives the wheels for the majority of propulsion. It delivers 204 horsepower and a substantial 247 lb-ft of torque in an electric-vehicle-like manner, although the engine can become somewhat strained on extended inclines.
Between the two, the Honda CR-V unequivocally provides superior handling, a more comfortable ride, and a quieter cabin.
Performance Advantage: Honda CR-V, for its superior handling and ride quality.
Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V: Fuel Efficiency and MPG
- Non-hybrid CR-V models achieve 29 or 30 mpg combined; non-hybrid RAV4s range from 28-30 mpg combined
- RAV4 Hybrid achieves 40 mpg combined for most trims; CR-V matches this with front-wheel drive but drops to 37 mpg with AWD
- RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid achieves 38 mpg combined and offers 42 miles of electric-only range on a full charge
The Honda CR-V, in non-hybrid configuration with its turbo-4 engine and CVT, attains impressive EPA ratings of 28 mpg city, 34 highway, and 30 combined with front-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive reduces the combined rating by only 1 mpg.
Base RAV4 models with front-wheel drive achieve 27 mpg city, 35 highway, and 30 combined, according to EPA estimates. All-wheel-drive versions slightly reduce these figures to 29 mpg combined, or 28 mpg for the off-road-oriented trims. Hybrid versions, which command a relatively small price premium, excel in fuel efficiency, returning 41 mpg city, 38 highway, and 40 combined for most configurations, with 37 mpg combined for the trail-focused Hybrid Woodland Edition.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, offering 42 miles of electric driving range, is rated at 38 mpg combined once the electric charge is depleted and boasts a total driving range of 600 miles.
Fuel Economy Advantage: Toyota RAV4—particularly in hybrid form.
Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4: Interior, Infotainment, and Technology
- RAV4 features a larger base touchscreen and an even larger 10.5-inch screen in select trims
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired in base Hondas, wireless with the 9.0-inch screen and standard in all RAV4s
- Satellite radio is limited to higher CR-V trims but broadly available on RAV4
Both the CR-V and RAV4 are modern crossovers equipped with the necessary smartphone integration features via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the base Honda CR-V requires a wired connection, whereas the 9.0-inch system in higher CR-V trims and the 8.0-inch system in all RAV4s offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Subjectively, the menu layout and user interface of Honda’s infotainment systems are preferable to Toyota’s latest system. While Toyota’s system incorporates Google point-of-interest functionality, it doesn’t optimize screen real estate as effectively and has eliminated many physical shortcut buttons.
Higher RAV4 trims, such as TRD Off-Road, Hybrid XSE, Plug-in Hybrid XSE, and all Limited models, upgrade to a 10.5-inch touchscreen. Limited models also include a 12.3-inch reconfigurable digital instrument cluster.
In terms of amenities, both models are closely matched. Mid-range trims of both SUVs can be equipped with features like a power liftgate, wireless device charging, heated rear outboard seats, and panoramic sunroofs. The RAV4 offers a head-up display in top-spec versions. A notable omission in the CR-V is satellite radio, which is only available on EX-L and Sport Touring trims.
Entry-level RAV4 LE trims exhibit a more budget-oriented feel, reminiscent of the Corolla, particularly in material quality and surface finishes. A significant improvement in cabin ambiance is noticeable when stepping up to the XLE Premium trim, which includes faux-leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear-seat vents, and optional 11-speaker JBL audio.
While the RAV4 enhances its interior in higher trims, the Honda CR-V presents a more upscale feel even in its base configuration, featuring better upholstery and a more refined overall aesthetic that extends to touchpoints, trim materials, and switchgear.
Interior Advantage: Honda CR-V wins for overall cabin ambiance and material quality.
Verdict: CR-V or RAV4 – Which Compact SUV is the Better Choice?
The Toyota RAV4 achieves a TCC Rating of 6.5 out of 10, while the Honda CR-V earns a higher score of 7.0, primarily due to its superior performance and comfort. (For more details on our rating methodology, please refer to how we rate cars.) The Toyota RAV4 distinguishes itself with a broader range of specialized trims and applications, including the highly desirable Plug-in Hybrid variant, and its hybrid system’s inherent all-wheel-drive integration. However, the Honda CR-V ultimately prevails due to its enhanced refinement, comfort, and composed driving dynamics, offering a greater sense of value for the money.
