2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. The interior of higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, with a cabin that mostly felt worthy of its price point, though occasional reminders of the base trim were evident.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained its design from 2019, with the Trail trim standing out due to its two-part face. The RAV4 offered four gas-powered trims in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE at just over $35,000 to the RAV4 Limited at over $45,000. The Trail trim featured blacked-out wheels, a faux skid plate, and orange interior accents, but was more of a style statement than a true off-roader. The interior included a frameless rearview mirror and a basic centre console, with the Limited trim offering more premium features like synthetic leather upholstery and heated rear seats.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with three powertrain options. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The hybrid drivetrain, available on the Limited trim, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for a total of 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, offering a balance of power and efficiency. The top-tier ST and Platinum trims boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offering an engaging driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4, with its single gas engine option, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine generating 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly exciting, the RAV4's performance was adequate for everyday driving. The Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4s, providing a comfortable ride but lacking in off-road capability.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats. However, the Explorer's interior lacked practical storage solutions, with limited pockets and cubbies. Cargo space was generous, with 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seated five, offering 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear. Legroom was 1,039 mm in the front and 960 mm in the back, with the rear seat being narrower than competitors. The RAV4 provided convenient storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space was competitive, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the outdated Sync 3 system struggled with voice recognition, and a move to Sync 4 was needed.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, upgraded to a 10.5-inch screen in the Limited trim. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with over-the-air updates and connected services. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard safety features including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with the TSS 2.5 suite of safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with the updated safety systems providing enhanced driver assistance.