2022 Kia Sportage 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 sharply contrasted with previous generations. This aggressive styling set it apart from other compact crossovers, enhancing its appeal as more than just an ordinary vehicle. However, beneath this bold exterior, 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 than its styling suggested. The RAV4 offered options like the Trail model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road package with matte black alloy wheels and red interior accents, adding to its rugged appeal.

Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches 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 with higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model had SofTex upholstery, which was lighter than leather and suited the outdoorsy theme, but real leather wasn't available even on the top-tier Limited trim. Overall, the RAV4's interior combined functionality with a touch of ruggedness, though it didn't offer the luxury feel some might expect at higher price points.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, on the other hand, had a distinctive design with a tiger-nose grille that didn't quite fit the SUV's front end, giving it a somewhat awkward appearance. Despite this, Kia excelled in other design aspects, with features like the four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a symmetrical rear fascia. The Sportage's proportions and stance were well-balanced, thanks to its 19-inch alloy wheels pushed to the corners.

Inside, the Sportage adopted Germanic design cues, featuring a black dashboard with polished metallic accents and straightforward instrumentation. The interior was upscale, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system. The transmission shifter's solid operation added to the sense of quality. While the Sportage's design was stylish and functional, it didn't quite match the refinement of some competitors, but it still offered a pleasant driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). While the engine achieved impressive thermal efficiency and revved like a racing engine, the transmission struggled to keep up, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4's steering was responsive but lacked feel, and the "Sport" driving mode only added weight to the steering without enhancing performance. The RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime offered more power and refinement, making them attractive alternatives.

On the highway, the RAV4 excelled with low cabin noise and a suspension that absorbed road imperfections well. However, Toyota focused more on off-road capability, with Trail and TRD Off-Road models featuring torque-vectoring AWD and 21.7 cm of ground clearance. These models also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity, but their off-road prowess was limited by suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options: a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine in the SX trim, producing 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sportage's Dynamax AWD system, standard on most trims, included a locking centre differential for improved traction.

The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, providing a lively driving experience. The MacPherson strut front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension contributed to a smooth and compliant ride, though there was some body roll and lateral rocking. The Sportage felt sporty in turns but lacked the refinement of competitors like the Mazda CX-5 Turbo.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. The RAV4 featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, but it didn't slide like some competitors. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded, though still behind the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's interior had oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls, but storage space was limited.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite being on the smaller side of the compact crossover scale, offered a roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. The Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres with the rear seats folded and 868 litres behind the back seat. The smart liftgate technology provided hands-free access, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Most trims had a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered an 8-inch screen, and the RAV4 Prime had a 9-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly flashy. The RAV4 lacked a head-up display, and tech-savvy shoppers might find the system lacking excitement.

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was easy to use, with knobs for volume and tuning, but the UVO Intelligence system was becoming outdated, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it missed the highest rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating. The RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance on the EX and SX trims. The SX trim also had adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received good crash-test ratings, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.