2022 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians six models, with prices ranging from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim and introduced the sporty ST-Line. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, creating an athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher trims mixed quality with some questionable materials, generally justifying the price but occasionally hinting at the base trim.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a leader in the crossover SUV market, continued to evolve from its 1996 debut. The latest iteration, stemming from a 2019 redesign, often topped Canadian sales charts. Its exterior styling, while fitting in with current crossover designs, featured angular wheel arches and expressive headlights, creating a playful yet aggressive look. The interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Unique design cues, like a circuit-board-inspired pattern, tied the cabin together, enhancing the overall quality feel.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed 10.3 to 11.8 L/100 km. The hybrid drivetrain, available on the Limited, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg with a fuel economy of 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum, produced 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,540 kg with a consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer excelled in off-road conditions and offered a robust driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provided three powertrains. The gasoline model used a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic and FWD, with AWD available. Fuel economy ranged from 7.9 to 8.5 L/100 km. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 hp, achieving 6.0 L/100 km. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid offered 302 hp and could run 68 km on electricity alone, with a hybrid mode consumption of 6.0 L/100 km. The RAV4 maintained car-like handling with a four-wheel independent suspension and offered various drive modes for tailored performance.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with an optional second-row bench for occasional five-person seating. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Higher trims featured amenities like triple-zone climate control and massaging front seats. However, practical storage was lacking, with limited pockets and cubbies. Cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 1,059 litres of luggage space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with seats down. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Trail and TRD Off-Road models towing up to 1,588 kg. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy, with comfortable front seats and ample storage options, including cupholders and a spacious glove compartment.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with 8-inch and 10.1-inch touchscreens. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. However, the outdated Sync 3 struggled with voice recognition, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4. Additional tech included a digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a 7-inch touchscreen with standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included a 9-inch touchscreen with JBL audio and navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced tech, including multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a head-up display, enhancing its appeal.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity was occasionally an issue.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota’s Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure alert. It earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The RAV4 Prime received a Top Safety Pick+ for its superior side-impact ratings.