2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that was reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This design sharply contrasted with the more approachable look of previous RAV4 generations and most other compact crossovers on the market. While the exterior was aggressive for a family car, it stood out against the competition, enhancing the perception that the RAV4 was more than just an ordinary vehicle. However, beneath the rugged styling, the RAV4 was based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which was shared with many other Toyota models, indicating that its mechanical components were more akin to a Camry than a 4Runner.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a design that required an acclimation period due to its distinctive styling. Its blunt and bulbous nose, along with black windshield pillars, gave it an angry visage and a floating roof appearance. The swollen haunches balanced the styling, but the cartoonishly-flared quarter panels could overwhelm the design. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, or Platinum specifications, with Canadian pricing ranging from $45,950 to $56,450, plus a destination charge. The Platinum model, which was evaluated, included features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a surround-view camera system. Despite its distinctive design, the Highlander Hybrid's interior quality was somewhat marred by a loud and hollow-sounding instrument-panel shroud.

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 (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and was impressive for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4 Trail and TRD Off-Road models featured torque-vectoring AWD and a respectable 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance, enhancing off-road capability. The TRD Off-Road also had model-specific suspension tuning and all-terrain tires, but its limited suspension articulation and shallow approach angles were liabilities on real off-road trails.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, achieving a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.7 L/100 km. The total output was 243 horsepower, and it used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the Highlander Hybrid improved in efficiency, it was less enjoyable to drive, with power that was merely adequate. The drivetrain sounded strained during hard acceleration or hill climbing, and the steering was lifeless. The regenerative brakes were an improvement over the previous generation, but the ride and handling exhibited unwanted body movement. On smooth roads, the Highlander Hybrid demonstrated capable handling, but it struggled on uneven surfaces. Around town, the electric motor torque and EV Mode were strengths, but overall, the SUV was not enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof that provided competitive headroom in both rows and good outward visibility. However, legroom was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,977 litres with them folded. The oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls were user-friendly, but storage space on the console was limited.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum provided roomy and supportive accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with features like a heated steering wheel and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the Highlander felt narrow, and the overhead air vents were irritating. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with tight headroom and limited legroom. Storage was plentiful but not as generous as the previous generation. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, 1,370 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,387 litres. However, the lack of storage wells for securing items was a drawback.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Most trim levels featured a 7-inch touchscreen, while Trail and Limited models had an 8-inch screen. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid 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 not flashy, lacking features like a head-up display available on the RAV4 Prime.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio as standard. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was well-designed, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. The JBL sound system offered 1,200 watts of power but had mixed audio quality. The Highlander also featured Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

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 rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. 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 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and more. It added intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, and the Platinum trim included a surround-view camera system. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings in frontal-impact crash tests.