2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its reputation for durability. The Trail trim, with its torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system and multiple driving modes, improved off-roading capabilities. The TRD Off-Road package further elevated this with specialized suspension and all-terrain tires, maintaining the rugged aesthetic with unique wheels and badges. Inside, the RAV4 offered a mix of quality materials and practical features like rubber floor mats, making it suitable for both urban and adventurous settings.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport embraced a modern retro design, reminiscent of its larger sibling, the Bronco. It featured a short front overhang for better approach angles and a design focused on trail driving. The Bronco Sport's exterior was marked by bold "BRONCO" lettering and minimal Ford branding. Its interior was rugged yet uncluttered, with a focus on practicality, including an 8-inch infotainment screen and a rotary gear selector. The Bronco Sport catered to both daily commutes and weekend adventures, offering a balance of style and functionality.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It also offered a hybrid variant with 219 horsepower, though the TRD Off-Road package was exclusive to the non-hybrid model. The RAV4's eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system with multiple terrain settings and 21.8 cm of ground clearance, making it adept at handling challenging trails. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road was comfortable in urban environments, though its fuel efficiency fell short of official estimates.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine options: a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder with 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque for the Badlands model. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD, with a terrain management system offering up to seven G.O.A.T. modes. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road with its short wheelbase, independent suspension, and decent ground clearance. On-road, it provided a comfortable ride, though the 1.5-litre engine could feel strained under pressure.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating and a sporty driving position. The interior featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample rear legroom. Storage was generous, with a dashboard shelf and a cargo area offering 1,062 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,974 litres with seats folded. Roof rails and a roof rack added to its utility.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport catered to active lifestyles with a cargo area designed to fit two 27.5-inch mountain bikes and a range of accessories for outdoor gear. The roof could support up to 68 kg, and the 2.0-litre engine could tow up to 997 kg. The cargo area featured a flip-up rear glass and optional management package with a slide-out table. The front cabin offered ample storage, though visibility could be challenging for taller drivers.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system included menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls, with upgrades like navigation and a JBL sound system. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology was notably effective, and the vehicle offered wireless charging and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport came with an 8-inch touchscreen and SYNC 3, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordPass Connect provided a WiFi hotspot, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system was available on higher trims. The terrain management system's G.O.A.T. modes offered tailored driving settings, and trail control technology assisted off-road driving. Intelligent access and a digital instrument panel were available on select trims.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, contingent on specific headlights, and top marks for crash protection.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport featured the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, with pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a reversing camera. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. AWD and a terrain management system enhanced safety, and the Bronco Sport earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.