2021 Audi Q5 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a rugged exterior reminiscent of traditional SUVs, with boxy fender flares and chiseled taillights that contrasted sharply with previous generations. Its aggressive styling set it apart from other compact crossovers, giving it a distinctive presence. Despite its bold appearance, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform, shared with other models like the Camry, which meant its mechanical underpinnings were more conventional. The RAV4 offered options like the Trail model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road package with matte black wheels and red accents, enhancing its adventurous appeal.

Inside, the RAV4 incorporated rugged styling elements such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, distinguishing its cabin from other Toyota models. While material quality was decent on lower trims, it didn’t improve significantly on higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model featured SofTex upholstery, which was lighter and durable, fitting its outdoorsy theme. However, real leather wasn’t available, even on the top-tier Limited trim.

The 2021 Audi Q5 boasted a sharp, modern design that carried Audi's design language while maintaining its unique character. Its expressive front end featured LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, contributing to its classy appearance. The Q5 PHEV stood out with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, including standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels, adding to its sophisticated look.

Inside, the Q5 offered a classy and modern environment with a focus on technology and an uncluttered design. The materials were of high quality, with real wood and metal accents. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was well-placed, and the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus provided a customizable instrument panel. The second row was comfortable, with standard leather upholstery, and the overall fit and finish were exceptional.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and delivered power at high RPMs. However, the transmission was sluggish, and the steering lacked feel, making the driving experience less dynamic. The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models offered more power and refinement.

Off-road, the RAV4 Trail and TRD Off-Road models featured torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance. The TRD Off-Road had model-specific suspension tuning and all-terrain tires, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Despite these features, its off-road capabilities were limited by suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and achieved impressive fuel efficiency. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro all-wheel drive, with modes for electric-only or hybrid driving.

The Q5's handling was enhanced by speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering and a four-wheel independent suspension. It offered a sporty yet comfortable ride, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 provided ample headroom and visibility due to its tall roof, but legroom was slightly lacking. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were less so for long trips. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded. The interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, though storage space was limited.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered smart packaging, with its battery pack under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It provided 710 litres behind the second row and 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row had reasonable legroom and headroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with available heating and ventilation. The interior featured practical storage solutions and a clean design.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims featuring a 7-inch touchscreen. Higher trims offered larger screens, and a JBL premium audio system was available. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly advanced, lacking features like a head-up display on gasoline models.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the Virtual Cockpit Plus, offering a customizable instrument panel. It included a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto. The interior lighting was customizable, enhancing the cabin's futuristic feel.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. A 360-degree camera system was available.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded it five stars. Safety features included six airbags, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance systems like Audi Pre Sense and adaptive cruise control.