2022 Kia Sorento vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end that set it apart from previous generations and other compact crossovers. Despite its aggressive styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota 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 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 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, exuded a strong presence with rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, and robust roof rails. Our test vehicle, equipped with the X-Line package, showcased a luxurious interior with Burgundy leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs were designed with family-friendly features like cupholders, USB ports, and climate control vents, while the third row was less accommodating for adults. The Sorento offered a panoramic sunroof and a smart power tailgate for added convenience. Despite its stylish interior, the third-row seating was cramped, making it more suitable for cargo expansion than passenger comfort.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by 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. While the engine boasted 40% thermal efficiency and a high revving nature, the transmission was sluggish, and the steering lacked feel, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4 excelled in off-road capability with torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance, and a 3,500-pound towing capacity in Trail and TRD Off-Road models, though its suspension articulation was limited.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's base engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, but the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque was more compelling. This engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivered a lively performance, accelerating to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension provided a balance of comfort and control, making it feel more like a sports sedan. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 11.5 L/100 km, but the Sorento offered hybrid options for better efficiency.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered ample headroom and visibility, though legroom was limited. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were less so, with flat cushions. Cargo space was above average at 1,059 litres with seats up and 1,977 litres with them folded, though not class-leading. The interior featured oversized knobs and a large centre-console storage bin, but lacked large cupholders and loose change storage.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable and equipped with family-friendly features, while the third row was cramped. Cargo space expanded from 357 litres to 1,274 litres with the third row folded, and up to 2,139 litres with the second row down. The smart power tailgate added convenience for loading.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 7-inch touchscreen on most trims and up to a 9-inch screen on the RAV4 Prime. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not flashy, lacking features like a head-up display on gasoline models. A JBL premium audio system and SiriusXM were available.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display with navigation on higher trims. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the graphics were not universally appealing. A 12-speaker Bose audio system was exclusive to the SX trim, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

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. Blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system were also available.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system and Junction Assist. The Blind View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist added to its safety credentials. The Sorento earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.