2021 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Honda CR-V, while functional, did not stand out in terms of exterior design. Its styling was similar to many other compact crossovers, with few distinguishing features apart from a unique grille and some chromed plastic accents. The colour options were limited, with a predominance of neutral shades, making it challenging to find more vibrant colours like Radiant Red. Inside, the CR-V offered a modern look with angular seat designs and a choice of materials that improved with higher trims. However, competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offered more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, though fitting into the general crossover design trend, offered more distinctive exterior details. Its angular wheel arches and expressive headlights gave it a playful yet aggressive look. The RAV4's exterior quality was enhanced by Toyota's traditional fit and finish. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and a well-placed touchscreen interface. The interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied various cabin elements together, providing a cohesive and stylish environment.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower. It offered smooth and steady acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in about 8 seconds. All trims featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provided a consistent driving experience but lacked the engagement of conventional transmissions. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The CR-V's suspension setup included MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear, offering decent handling and ride quality.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains. The gasoline model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It provided smooth power delivery and good highway performance. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 km on electricity alone. The RAV4's suspension system included MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear, with AWD models featuring Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring for improved handling.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering more than 100 litres of additional interior volume compared to the RAV4. It provided ample cargo space, with 1,065 litres available with the rear seats folded. Depending on the trim, the CR-V featured manual, power, or hands-free tailgate options. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional gear.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered significant cargo capacity with 1,059 litres behind the second row and up to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and various towing capabilities depending on the model. Inside, the RAV4 provided comfortable seating for four, with ample space in the front seats and a well-equipped cabin featuring numerous storage options. The second-row middle seat was less comfortable but functional for short trips.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Audio systems varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant, with USB and 12-volt outlets available throughout the cabin. The Touring trim also included a wireless phone charger.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless charging pad. Upper trims also offered a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It featured the Honda Sensing system, which included a comprehensive suite of safety technologies standard across all trims. These included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base trim was blind spot monitoring.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with the Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a range of safety features such as enhanced vehicle stability control, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert. It also included a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert as standard in Canada. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime achieving a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.