2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its dated design, retained a rugged charm that appealed to those seeking a durable and utilitarian vehicle. Its exterior, characterized by a two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, exuded timeless styling and balanced proportions. While the 4Runner's interior was dominated by hard plastic, it was practical and easy to clean, aligning with the SUV's mission. The dashboard featured large knobs and buttons, offering a straightforward, old-school experience. The 4Runner's appeal lay in its simplicity and durability, making it a reliable choice for those who valued function over form.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more in line with the typical compact crossover, blending in with its competitors. While its exterior styling was not particularly distinctive, the CR-V offered a modern and angular interior with options for wood panels and chrome accents in higher trims. The CR-V's focus was on practicality, providing ample interior space and cargo capacity. It was available in a range of colours, though finding one in a shade other than white or gray could be challenging. Overall, the CR-V prioritized functionality and comfort over standout aesthetics.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was built for off-road adventures, equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control, making it adept at tackling challenging terrains. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow and cumbersome, with heavy steering and clunky handling. Its body-on-frame construction contributed to its truck-like driving characteristics, which some found charming but others might find cumbersome for daily use. Fuel efficiency was a concern, with an average consumption of 14.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, offered a more refined on-road experience. Powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower, it provided smooth and steady acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in about 8 seconds. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributed to a predictable and comfortable ride, though it lacked the engagement of a traditional automatic transmission. The CR-V's handling was decent, with a unitized body structure and MacPherson strut front suspension. While not designed for off-roading, the CR-V excelled in providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience for everyday use.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample legroom and supportive seats in both the front and rear. Its high ground clearance could pose a challenge for shorter passengers, but once inside, the 4Runner provided a pleasant ride. The SUV's cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the rear seats and 2,540 litres with them folded down. The 4Runner's interior storage was decent, and its back bumper served as a convenient seating area for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized practicality, offering more than 100 litres of additional interior volume compared to the Toyota RAV4. With the rear seats folded, the CR-V provided 1,065 litres of cargo space, accommodating a variety of needs. Access to the cargo area varied by trim, with options for a power tailgate and hands-free operation. The CR-V's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with ample storage and roof rails available on most trims for additional carrying capacity.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's technology offerings were basic, especially in the entry-level Trail grade. It featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs, it lacked the sophistication of more modern setups. Higher trims offered upgrades like a dynamic navigation system and enhanced audio options.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V came standard with a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The CR-V's audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim featuring a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were plentiful, with options for wireless charging in higher trims. The CR-V's technology package was comprehensive, providing a modern and connected experience for drivers and passengers.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which were notable omissions. The 4Runner's safety ratings reflected its age, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Marginal" rating for driver protection in a small overlap frontal-impact collision from the IIHS.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Its Honda Sensing system included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The CR-V's commitment to safety was evident in its standardization of these features across all trim levels, making it a standout choice for safety-conscious buyers.