2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares and chiseled taillights that set it apart from previous generations and other compact crossovers. Its aggressive styling aimed to convey a sense of adventure, although beneath the surface, it shared the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform with other models like the 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 red interior accents, enhancing its adventurous appeal. Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches, such as large rubberized knobs and SofTex upholstery, though material quality did not significantly improve with higher trims.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior changes, adopting a bolder design with a deep V-motion grille and thinner, longer headlights. The Kicks SR and SR Premium trims featured LED headlights and fog lights, while the rear received a new bumper and LED taillights, giving it a proportionate look. The Kicks offered a variety of new paint options and a two-tone paint job with a floating roof, enhancing its upmarket appearance. The SR Premium trim added sporty elements like black heated mirrors and a rear roof-mounted spoiler. Inside, the Kicks maintained its compact size but improved material quality, offering features like a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel and Prima-Tex-appointed seating in the SR Premium model.

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 front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive as an option. 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, and the steering lacked feel, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4 excelled on highways with low cabin noise and a comfortable suspension, but its off-road capabilities were limited despite features like torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and a 3,500-pound towing capacity in Trail and TRD Off-Road models.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks featured a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. While not particularly powerful, the Kicks offered a good power-to-weight ratio for its size. Its electric power-assisted steering and independent strut suspension contributed to nimble handling, making it easy to navigate city streets and park. The Kicks maintained stability on icy roads, though the CVT could become noisy under heavy acceleration. Standard features included a traction control system, stability control, and hill start assist. The Kicks' fuel efficiency was rated at 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 6.6 on the highway, and 7.2 combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient subcompact crossovers available.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing ample headroom and good outward visibility, though legroom was slightly lacking compared to competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres available with the rear seats in place and 1,977 litres with them folded. The RAV4 featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, though storage space on the console was limited.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks made efficient use of its compact size, with easy-to-reach buttons and knobs throughout the cabin. It offered good small-item storage, easy-access USB ports, and multiple smartphone storage options. The Kicks featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable front seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. It provided best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited for larger drivers. The available tonneau cover offered hidden storage in the rear cargo area.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims featuring a 7-inch touchscreen. Trail and Limited models received an 8-inch screen, while the RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked standout features, and the gasoline RAV4 did not include a head-up display.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a competitive array of technology features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Kicks SV added features like Nissan Intelligent Key and automatic climate control. The SR Premium trim boasted a class-exclusive Bose Personal Plus sound system with eight speakers, including headrest speakers, and a surround-view monitor for enhanced parking assistance.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. A 360-degree camera system was available in certain packages.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning. It included 10 airbags and adaptive cruise control on higher trims. The Kicks had not been crash-tested by the IIHS for 2021, but the 2020 model received Good marks. The NHTSA gave the 2021 Kicks a four-star overall rating.