2021 Honda CR-V vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that set it apart from other compact crossovers. Its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and scowling front end gave it an aggressive look, reminiscent of a traditional SUV. Despite its bold styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which it shared with other Toyota models like the Camry. This meant that while it looked like a 4Runner, its mechanical components were more akin to a Camry. 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 all-terrain tires, enhancing its adventurous appeal. Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches, such as large rubberized knobs and SofTex upholstery, although real leather was not available even on the highest trims.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V had a more conventional design that blended in with other compact crossovers. Its styling was similar to many competitors, with only minor details like the grille and chromed plastic features setting it apart. The CR-V was available in seven colours, though many were shades of grey, black, or white, with only a few options like blue and red. Inside, the CR-V offered a modern look with angular seats and upscale materials like wood panels and chrome on higher trims. While it didn't stand out in terms of exterior design, the CR-V focused on practicality and comfort, making it a reliable choice for those prioritizing function over form.

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 with optional all-wheel drive. The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and delivered impressive output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, leading to a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4's steering was responsive but lacked feel, and the "Sport" mode only added weight to the steering. Off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Trail and TRD Off-Road models, which featured torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance, and a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Despite these features, the RAV4's off-road performance was limited by its suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, was powered by a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower. It accelerated to 100 kilometres per hour in about 8 seconds, comparable to other crossovers in its class. All trims featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which maintained constant engine revs as the vehicle gained speed. While not particularly engaging, the CR-V's drivetrain provided smooth and steady acceleration. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on the LX and standard on other trims. The CR-V's suspension setup included a MacPherson strut in the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, offering decent handling and ride quality. Overall, the CR-V prioritized comfort and predictability over sporty performance.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof that provided ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable and form-fitting, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded, though still less than the Honda CR-V. The RAV4 featured oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls, making them easy to use even with gloves. Storage space was somewhat limited, with a large centre-console bin and smartphone holder but smaller cupholders and storage areas.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space, offering over 100 litres more volume than the RAV4. It provided slightly more cargo space behind the second row, with a total of 1,065 litres when the rear seats were folded. The CR-V's tailgate options varied by trim, with the LX requiring manual operation, the Sport offering a power tailgate, and the Touring featuring a hands-free version. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional gear. The CR-V's interior was designed to comfortably fit five passengers and their belongings, making it a strong contender for families and those needing ample cargo space.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, while Trail and Limited models had an 8-inch screen, and the RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system and SiriusXM satellite radio were optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with easy-to-read graphics and shortcut buttons, but it lacked the flashiness of some competitors. The gasoline RAV4 did not include a head-up display, which was available on the RAV4 Prime.

In the 2021 Honda CR-V, a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto was standard. Lower trims had varying speaker setups, while the Touring trim featured a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. The EX-L trim and above included Sirius XM and HD radio, with satellite navigation available on the Touring and Black Edition trims. Charging ports were abundant, with USB ports in the front console and second row, and a wireless phone charger on the Touring trim. The CR-V's infotainment system offered a comprehensive suite of features, catering to tech-savvy consumers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. However, it missed the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover crash tests and five stars in side crash tests. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system were also available.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning both a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It received a "Good" rating in the original side crash test but had lower scores in the headlight evaluation and updated side crash test. The CR-V's LATCH system received an "Acceptable" rating. Honda's approach to safety was notable, with the Honda Sensing system standard across all trims, including features like a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and more. Blind spot monitoring was standard from the Sport trim upwards.