2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 presented a bold and angular design, a departure from its traditionally cute ‘ute appearance. This redesign, which began in 2019, aimed to reflect the SUV's proven durability with a tougher look. The Trail trim, introduced the previous year, enhanced off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control. The 2020 model further elevated its off-road prowess with the TRD Off-Road package, featuring matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a TRD suspension setup. The exterior, distinguishable by its unique wheels and badges, was complemented by a Lunar Rock grey paint with an optional white roof, which effectively concealed dirt. Inside, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road boasted TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, contrasting quality materials with some less expensive plastics.

The 2021 Audi Q5 maintained a sharp and modern appearance, embodying Audi's design language while retaining its unique character. Its expressive front featured LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, while the body showcased crisp lines and a protective greenhouse. The rear was marked by bold taillights, contributing to the Q5's classy and modern look. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim enhancements, offered an even more refined appearance, including standard 19-inch or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 was equally sophisticated, with a clean and modern design. The interior featured high-quality materials, including real wood and metal, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned for optimal driver visibility. The second row offered standard leather upholstery, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. While a hybrid version was available, offering 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, the TRD Off-Road package was exclusive to the gas-powered model. The RAV4's non-turbo engine provided adequate performance, especially in Sport mode, though a turbocharged option would have been preferable for high-altitude driving. An eight-speed automatic transmission handled power delivery, though it occasionally struggled with gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and 21.8 centimetres of ground clearance, making it well-suited for off-road adventures. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 excelled in urban environments, with a smooth ride and user-friendly features like a 360-degree camera system. Fuel efficiency averaged 10.0 L/100 km, slightly above the official estimate.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with a combined output of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, thanks to its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and electric motor. This setup allowed for impressive acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, and offered excellent fuel efficiency, with a combined rating of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with a Level 2 charger, providing up to 31 kilometres of electric-only range. The drivetrain featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro AWD, with multiple driving modes for optimal efficiency. The Q5's handling was characterized by speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering and a four-wheel independent suspension, offering a balance of comfort and road feel.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy ingress and egress, with seating hip points at an ideal height. The driver's seat was 4-way power-adjustable, while the front passenger seat, though lacking height adjustment, provided adequate support. The RAV4 Trail featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. Interior storage was ample, with a dashboard shelf and a cargo capacity of 1,062 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,974 litres with the seats folded. Roof rails and a roof rack further extended the RAV4's utility.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV benefited from smart packaging, with its battery pack located under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It offered 710 litres of space behind the second row, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row provided 960 mm of legroom, 958 mm of headroom, and 1,435 mm of shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were sport-style, with extensive adjustments, heating, and optional ventilation. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including cupholders, cubbies, and a centre-console storage bin, all designed for functionality and ease of use.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's technology was user-friendly and practical, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display, depending on the trim. The 8-inch system, standard in the Trail, suffered from glare but was otherwise intuitive, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls, with optional upgrades like navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology was particularly impressive, accurately responding to commands. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror with adjustable camera settings.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a centre-console touchpad. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered customizable views, enhancing the cabin's futuristic feel. LED ambient lighting added to the interior's customization options. The Q5 came standard with a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto, providing a seamless and high-quality audio experience.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring automatic emergency braking, radar adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The systems operated smoothly, encouraging drivers to keep them active. Toyota offered a free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services, providing collision notification and emergency assistance. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance, though headlight performance varied.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings, except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars, with PHEV ratings expected to match. Safety features included six airbags, ABS with brake assist, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Available driver-assistance features included Audi Pre Sense front, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition, enhancing safety and convenience.