2022 Toyota Sequoia vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior, reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares and chiseled taillights. This design was a departure from previous RAV4 generations, offering a more aggressive look that stood out among compact crossovers. Despite its bold styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other models like the Camry, which meant its mechanical underpinnings were more conventional. The RAV4 Trail model added unique features like an Ice Edge roof and orange interior accents, while the TRD Off-Road package included matte black wheels and a TRD front skid plate.

Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches such as large rubberized knobs and door handles. Material quality was decent on lower trims but didn't improve significantly on higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model had SofTex upholstery, which was lighter and durable, fitting its outdoorsy theme. However, real leather wasn't available, even on the top-tier Limited trim.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second generation into its 14th year, maintaining a mature design. Its exterior struck a balance with a modest grille and elegant wheel arches, while its large dimensions made it imposing. The Sequoia's interior, however, appeared dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen that seemed out of place. Despite this, the interior was well-built, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability, making it suitable for families.

The Sequoia's Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the SUV relevant. It featured a robust body-on-frame construction and ample ground clearance, making it capable off-road. The Sequoia's interior offered comfort across all three rows, with features like three-zone climate control and a power moonroof. Cargo space was generous, with up to 3,401 litres available when both rear rows were folded.

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 front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive as an option. The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically seen in racing engines, and was eager to rev. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel, making the driving experience less dynamic. The RAV4's off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Trail and TRD Off-Road models, with features like torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities enhanced by its body-on-frame construction and independent suspension.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof, providing good headroom and visibility. However, legroom was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were less so, with flat cushions. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,977 litres with them folded. The interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but lacked large cupholders and storage spaces.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control and a power moonroof. The cargo area offered 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,401 litres with both rear rows folded. The Sequoia included ample storage options, with a large centre console and door pockets.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims featuring a 7-inch touchscreen. Higher trims offered larger screens, and a JBL premium audio system was available. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly advanced, lacking features like a head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a basic operating system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the driver information screen was small compared to competitors. Higher trims added navigation and a JBL audio system. The Sequoia's technology lagged behind modern standards, lacking electrification and advanced powertrains.

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 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. It featured Toyota Safety Sense P, with pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The STAR safety system included stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags.