2021 Honda Pilot vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

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, distinguishing itself with unique wheels and badges. Inside, the RAV4 featured TRD logos, rubber mats, and a mix of quality materials, though some plastics appeared inexpensive. The RAV4's trim levels ranged from the LE to the Limited, with the TRD Off-Road near the top, offering a blend of equipment and value.

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, and performance, though its exterior design was polarizing. Available in five trims, the Pilot offered standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The Black Edition, fully loaded with a new white paint option, featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents. Quality materials were evident, though the Pilot's interior resembled a minivan, which, along with its exterior design, was not universally appealing. The Pilot's pricing ranged from $42,905 to $56,805, with the Black Edition at the higher end.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it was not available with the TRD Off-Road package. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, 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 capable on challenging trails. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 was practical for urban use, though its all-terrain tires were not ideal for fast mountain driving.

The 2021 Honda Pilot housed a 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and quick acceleration. Its nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring AWD system enhanced traction and handling. Fuel-saving technologies like variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start contributed to a combined fuel consumption of 10.9 L/100 km. The Pilot's suspension offered a comfortable ride and agile handling, though its off-road capability was limited by 18.5 centimetres of ground clearance. The steering and brakes were responsive, though the brakes could heat up with prolonged use.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating and a sporty driving position. The Trail trim featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. Interior storage was generous, with a dashboard shelf and a cargo capacity of 1,062 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,974 litres with the seats folded. Roof rails and a roof rack added to its utility.

The 2021 Honda Pilot provided spacious seating for up to eight, with comfortable leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs, standard on Black Edition models, were nearly as comfortable as the front seats and offered heating. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults due to its low cushion. Storage was abundant, with compartments throughout the cabin and a large centre console. The power tailgate revealed 524 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,583 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 3,092 litres.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The TRD Off-Road's 8-inch system included an embedded navigation system and JBL premium sound. The voice-recognition technology was impressive, and the vehicle offered wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Honda Pilot's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink services. The Touring trim added wireless charging, a premium audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The system was adequate but lacked a tuning knob and required specific voice commands. The Cabin Talk feature allowed communication with rear passengers through the stereo or headphones.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including 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, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance, though headlight performance varied.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The Pilot's crash-test ratings were favourable, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, though some areas received lower scores.