2025 Honda CR-V
2025 Honda CR-V

Should You Compare RAV4 To CRV? A Comprehensive Guide

Are you struggling to Compare Rav4 To Crv? At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we provide a detailed comparison of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V to help you make an informed decision. Our analysis covers price, features, size, safety, performance, and fuel economy. For those seeking vehicle comparisons, reliability ratings, and competitor analysis, this guide offers clear insights.

1. Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4: Price and Features

  • Base versions of both cost around $30,000
  • RAV4 is offered with a Plug-in Hybrid version
  • CR-V Hybrid offered in front- or all-wheel drive, RAV4 Hybrid only in AWD
  • Best picks: CR-V LX or Sport Hybrid, RAV4 XLE or XLE Hybrid

1.1. How Much Does a Honda CR-V Cost?

The Honda CR-V starts at approximately $31,000 for the base LX front-wheel-drive model. This includes features like keyless start, adaptive cruise control, LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Adding all-wheel drive to any model, including hybrids, costs an additional $1,500. Mid-range EX and EX-L versions offer more comfort and convenience features, such as a power driver seat, heated front seats, a sunroof, blind-spot monitors, and 18-inch wheels. The EX-L is the entry point for the larger 9.0-inch touchscreen in the non-hybrid lineup, also including eight-speaker audio and wireless smartphone charging.

CR-V Hybrid versions are available in Sport and Sport-L trims, featuring a sportier blackout treatment and black-painted 18-inch wheels with a smaller touchscreen. The Sport-L upgrades to a power tailgate, leather upholstery, and wireless device charging. The top-of-the-line CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid, priced around $42,000, adds Bose audio, 19-inch wheels, and a built-in navigation system. Options across the lineup include special paint colors, a tow hitch, and various cargo accessories.

1.2. How Much Does a Toyota RAV4 Cost?

The Toyota RAV4, excluding the Plug-in Hybrid version, offers a variety of front- or all-wheel-drive gasoline models and all-wheel-drive Hybrid versions. The base LE starts at about $30,000, while the Hybrid Limited AWD reaches around $41,000. All-wheel drive on non-hybrid models adds a $1,400 premium throughout the lineup. The base LE includes 17-inch steel wheels, adaptive cruise control, active-safety features, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The RAV4 XLE starts at $31,680, adding a power-adjustable driver seat, blind-spot monitors, and alloy wheels, with optional heated seats and a sunroof. The $34,425 XLE Premium model includes synthetic leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Hybrid models start with the Hybrid LE at approximately $33,000, only $1,650 more than a non-hybrid LE AWD. The XLE Hybrid nears $35,000, and with optional heated seats, it could meet the needs of most shoppers. The non-Plug-in Hybrid RAV4 lineup tops out with the $41,600 Hybrid Limited, reaching up to $44,000 with options like a panoramic roof, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an Advanced Technology Package with wireless device charging, hands-free tailgate operation, and a surround-view camera system.

The Hybrid SE is a valuable mid-level pick at around $36,000, while the Plug-in Hybrid costs nearly $50,000.

1.3. Pricing and Feature Advantage:

The Toyota RAV4 offers an advantage because all-wheel drive does not increase the cost in high-mpg hybrid models.

2. Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V: Size, Dimensions, and Cargo Space

  • CR-V is slightly longer and lower than RAV4
  • CR-V has more cargo capacity with rear seatbacks up or down
  • RAV4 is slightly taller overall and in some versions has more ground clearance

The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are similarly sized to each other and to rivals like the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester. The Toyota RAV4 is approximately 181 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 67 inches high, with a wheelbase of about 106 inches. The CR-V is about 185 inches long, 74 inches wide, and 67 inches high, also with a wheelbase of about 106 inches.

2.1. Cabin and Cargo Space Comparison

The CR-V offers a larger cabin, both in official dimensions and perceived space. The RAV4 cabin is more upright, but the CR-V’s cabin feels roomier in both front and rear. The CR-V offers 103.5 cubic feet of passenger volume, while the RAV4 provides 98.9 cubic feet. For cargo space, the RAV4 offers 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat or nearly 70 cubic feet with the seat folded. The CR-V surpasses this with about 39 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 76.5 cubic feet with it folded. In real-world use, the RAV4’s seats go flat with some pressure, while the CR-V doesn’t quite yield a flat surface.

In terms of usability and comfort, the CR-V offers more support and comfort in the front seats. The Honda also has larger door openings in the back, making entry easier. Taller passengers may find the Honda more accommodating due to the seating position and roofline.

2.2. Size and Space Advantage:

The CR-V provides more interior space and comfort compared to the RAV4.

3. Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V: Towing Capacity

  • RAV4 Adventure and RAV4 TRD can tow up to 3,500 pounds
  • If even occasional towing is a consideration, the CR-V Hybrid’s 1,000-pound limit might be a nonstarter
  • Don’t dismiss the idea of towing—a little bit—with the Toyota hybrid

The RAV4 Hybrid is rated to tow up to 1,750 pounds, while gasoline models are rated up to 1,500 pounds in most configurations. The plug-in version of the RAV4 can tow up to 2,500 pounds.

3.1. Towing Comparison

The CR-V has lower towing numbers, with non-hybrid versions towing up to 1,500 pounds. The CR-V Hybrid is rated at just 1,000 pounds, making it suitable only for light tasks. The RAV4’s 8-speed automatic transmission is better suited for towing compared to the CR-V’s CVT automatic transmission.

3.2. Towing Advantage:

The Toyota RAV4 provides a higher towing capacity, making it more suitable for those needing to tow small trailers or equipment.

4. Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4: Off-Roading Capabilities

  • RAV4 Adventure, TRD Off-Road are no longer in the lineup
  • Both lineups have around eight inches of ground clearance in most forms
  • Comparing hybrid versions, they have very different types of AWD

The Honda CR-V has 7.8 inches of ground clearance in its front-wheel-drive versions and 8.2 inches with all-wheel drive. The RAV4 offers up to 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

4.1. All-Wheel Drive Systems

All-wheel-drive CR-Vs use a mechanical all-wheel-drive system to send power to the rear wheels when needed. Non-hybrid all-wheel-drive RAV4s deliver power similarly, but RAV4 Hybrid models add a separate motor at the rear wheels, which is part of the hybrid system and not mechanically connected to the engine or front transaxle. The RAV4 Hybrid’s AWD system offers impressive finesse on snowy driveways.

4.2. Off-Roading Advantage:

The Toyota RAV4, while no longer offering trail-focused versions, still has a slight edge in off-roading capabilities due to its hybrid AWD system.

5. Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V: Safety Features and Ratings

  • Both have generally good results, with some blemishes
  • RAV4 crash-test scores are slightly better overall
  • Both are 2024 IIHS Top Safety Picks
  • Blind-spot monitors are included in all CR-Vs but optional on RAV4

Both the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V offer good safety ratings and results, but there is room for improvement. The RAV4 has a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA NCAP program but earned only an “Acceptable” rating in the updated side-impact test from the IIHS, resulting in a Top Safety Pick instead of a Top Safety Pick+.

5.1. Safety Test Results

The Honda CR-V received a “Poor” rating in the updated moderate overlap frontal test from the IIHS, although it achieved a “Good” result in the updated side-impact test. Like the RAV4, the CR-V family earns a five-star NHTSA rating from a mix of four- and five-star scores. Both models include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control, with headlights that have tested well. Blind-spot monitors are not standard on base versions of either model.

5.2. Safety Advantage:

The Toyota RAV4 has slightly better overall crash-test scores and rearward vision, giving it a safety advantage.

6. Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4: Performance and Handling

  • Non-hybrids: CR-V has a 1.5-liter turbo-4 and a CVT, RAV4 has a 2.5-liter inline-4 and 8-speed automatic
  • RAV4s can handle quite differently depending on the version
  • All CR-V versions have far superior ride and handling

The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer comparable power and performance, but their powertrains and power delivery methods vary.

6.1. Powertrain Comparison

The CR-V features a 1.5-liter turbo-4 engine producing 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While not exceptionally quick, it provides smooth and adequate performance for everyday driving. The RAV4 comes with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 203 hp and 184 lb-ft, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Although the transmission responds well, the powertrain can be coarse and loud, with similar 0-60 mph times (around eight seconds) compared to the Honda.

Both models excel in hybrid form. The Toyota hybrid system includes a separate motor for the rear wheels, producing a combined 219 hp, making the SUV quicker. Honda’s system uses a pair of electric motors, one directly driving the wheels, delivering 204 hp and 247 lb-ft in an electric-vehicle-like manner.

6.2. Performance Advantage:

The Honda CR-V offers superior handling, a better ride, and a quieter cabin, making it the better performer overall.

7. Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V: Fuel Economy

  • Non-hybrid CR-V models stand at 29 or 30 mpg combined, while non-hybrid RAV4s span from 28-30 mpg combined
  • RAV4 Hybrid gets 40 mpg combined for most versions; CR-V matches that with front-wheel drive but drops to 37 with AWD
  • RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid gets 38 mpg combined but can go 42 miles all-electric on a plug-in charge

The Honda CR-V, in non-hybrid form with its turbo-4 and CVT, achieves ratings of 28 mpg city, 34 highway, and 30 overall with front-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive reduces the overall rating by just 1 mpg.

7.1. Fuel Efficiency Comparison

Base-level RAV4s with front-wheel drive achieve 27 mpg city, 35 highway, and 30 combined, according to the EPA. AWD versions can lower that to 29 mpg combined, or 28 mpg for the off-road-focused trims. Hybrid versions offer leading efficiency, returning 41 mpg city, 38 highway, and 40 combined for most combinations, with 37 combined for the trail-oriented Hybrid Woodland Edition. The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, offering 42 electric miles on a charge, is rated at 38 mpg combined once the charge is depleted and provides a combined driving range of 600 miles.

7.2. Fuel Economy Advantage:

The Toyota RAV4, particularly in its hybrid form, offers superior fuel economy.

8. Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4: Interior, Infotainment, and Technology

  • RAV4 gets a larger base touchscreen and an even larger 10.5-inch one in some versions
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired in base Hondas, wireless with 9.0-inch screen and in all RAV4s
  • Satellite radio is limited to top options of the CR-V but widely available on RAV4

Both models are modern crossovers equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the Honda CR-V requires a wired connection, while the 9.0-inch system in higher trims of the CR-V and the 8.0-inch system in all RAV4s include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

8.1. Infotainment Systems

The layout and menu structure of Honda systems are generally preferred over the latest Toyota system. The Toyota system offers Google point-of-interest functionality but lacks efficient use of screen space and has removed many peripheral buttons. The RAV4 offers a 10.5-inch system on TRD Off-Road, Hybrid XSE, Plug-in Hybrid XSE, and Limited models, while Limited models also include a 12.3-inch reconfigurable gauge display.

8.2. Interior Amenities

Both models offer comparable amenities. Mid-range trims include a power liftgate, wireless device charging, heated rear outboard seats, and large sunroof layouts. The RAV4 offers a head-up display in top-spec versions. The CR-V lacks satellite radio on all but EX-L and Sport Touring versions. Base RAV4 LE versions feel basic, similar to the Corolla, but the XLE Premium trim offers faux-leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped wheel, and rear-seat vents, along with available 11-speaker JBL sound.

8.3. Interior Advantage:

The Honda CR-V offers a more upscale interior feel, with better upholstery and a refined look and feel throughout.

9. Which Is Better: CR-V or RAV4?

The Toyota RAV4 earns a TCC Rating of 6.5 out of 10, while the Honda CR-V earns a 7.0, based on performance and comfort. The Toyota RAV4 offers a broader range of specialized trims and missions, including the Plug-in Hybrid, and its hybrid system integrates all-wheel drive effectively. However, the refinement, comfort, and poise of the CR-V make it the better overall value.

9.1. Overall Winner:

The Honda CR-V is the better choice, offering superior comfort and value for the money.

Choosing between the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V can be challenging. COMPARE.EDU.VN offers comprehensive comparisons to simplify your decision. Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN for detailed insights and make the best choice for your needs.

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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

10.1. What are the starting prices for the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V?

The Toyota RAV4 starts at around $30,000 for the base LE model, while the Honda CR-V starts at approximately $31,000 for the base LX model.

10.2. Which SUV offers more cargo space, the RAV4 or CR-V?

The Honda CR-V offers more cargo space, with about 39 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The Toyota RAV4 offers 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and nearly 70 cubic feet with it folded.

10.3. Which SUV has better fuel economy, the RAV4 or CR-V?

The Toyota RAV4, especially in its hybrid form, generally offers better fuel economy. The RAV4 Hybrid achieves 40 mpg combined, while the CR-V Hybrid achieves 40 mpg with front-wheel drive and 37 mpg with all-wheel drive.

10.4. What are the towing capacities of the RAV4 and CR-V?

The Toyota RAV4 has a higher towing capacity, with the RAV4 Hybrid rated up to 1,750 pounds and the gasoline models up to 1,500 pounds. The Honda CR-V is rated up to 1,500 pounds for non-hybrid versions and 1,000 pounds for the hybrid version.

10.5. Which SUV has better safety ratings, the RAV4 or CR-V?

Both SUVs have good safety ratings, but the Toyota RAV4 has slightly better overall crash-test scores, giving it a slight edge in safety.

10.6. Which SUV offers a more upscale interior, the RAV4 or CR-V?

The Honda CR-V is generally considered to have a more upscale interior, with better upholstery and a refined look and feel throughout.

10.7. What type of infotainment systems do the RAV4 and CR-V offer?

The Toyota RAV4 offers an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in all trims. The Honda CR-V offers a 7.0-inch touchscreen in the base model that requires a wired connection, while higher trims have a 9.0-inch system with wireless connectivity.

10.8. Which SUV has better handling and ride quality, the RAV4 or CR-V?

The Honda CR-V is known for its superior handling, better ride quality, and quieter cabin compared to the Toyota RAV4.

10.9. Are blind-spot monitors standard on both the RAV4 and CR-V?

Blind-spot monitors are included in all CR-Vs but are optional on some RAV4 trims.

10.10. Which SUV is better overall, the RAV4 or CR-V?

The Honda CR-V is generally considered the better overall choice due to its superior comfort, handling, and value for the money. However, the Toyota RAV4 offers a wider range of specialized trims and missions, including a plug-in hybrid option.

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