2022 Kia EV6 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Kia EV6 was a striking vehicle, exuding a sporty and sleek design reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. It appeared lower and wider, with a highback tail featuring a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the far corners of the chassis, giving the body a curvaceous, hip-like appearance similar to the wide fenders of a Porsche 911. The headlights squinted in a V-shaped pattern, complementing the black trim below the bumper, which mimicked sealed air intakes. The EV6's profile was sharp and angular, with a smooth, silken finish, especially in matte silver paint. The interior was equally impressive, with dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 had evolved from its original "cute ute" status to become a mature crossover SUV. Its exterior design was more conventional, fitting in with the current crossover aesthetic. However, upon closer inspection, the RAV4 revealed angular flourishes in the wheel arches and crisp lines that contrasted with the organic shapes in the body-side bends. The expressive headlights, snub-nosed grille, and grinning lower fascia openings gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by a straightforward centre stack. The touchscreen interface was positioned for easy access, and the interior design included a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern that tied various cabin elements together.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered a range of powertrains, with the GT-Line e-AWD model delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque from its dual electric motors. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, thanks to its 77.4 kWh battery mounted low in the chassis. The EV6's performance was impressive, with quick torque delivery and seamless power distribution, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. However, its driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65% of Kia's estimated 441-kilometre range. Charging was efficient, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW, but real-world charging times were longer than Kia's claims.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, including a gasoline-only model with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a similar engine with an electric motor for 217 net horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's performance was smooth and responsive, with a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission providing familiar driving sensations. The RAV4's fuel economy was impressive, especially in hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles and a twisting rotary shifter. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it included an onboard power generator for added versatility.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provided ample interior space, with up to 1,059 litres of luggage capacity behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Trail and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 1,588 kilograms. The RAV4's interior was roomy and comfortable, with plenty of storage options and thoughtful design features, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a simple interface and connectivity options, though it required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EV6 featured advanced technology, including a head-up display with augmented reality, 360-degree cameras, and a remote parking assist system. The tech was impressive without being overwhelming, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and expanding to a 9-inch screen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced tech, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a bird’s-eye view camera system. The available technology on upper trims set the RAV4 apart, providing a modern and connected driving experience.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came equipped with a range of safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims offered additional features like blind spot monitoring and 360-degree cameras. However, there were no published safety ratings from government or independent agencies.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 boasted an extensive suite of safety features, including Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. It included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 received high safety ratings, earning an IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.