2022 Kia Seltos vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Kia Seltos was positioned between the smaller Kia Soul and the larger Kia Sportage, offering four trim levels in Canada: LX, EX, EX Premium, and SX. All trims except the LX came with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), with prices ranging from $23,595 to $33,195, excluding the $1,850 destination charge. The U.S. model tested, the Nightfall Edition, was similar to the top SX grade, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, and a dual-clutch transmission. The Seltos was a visually appealing small SUV, though the headlights were not particularly favoured. Inside, it boasted a stylish design with exposed stitching and metallic accents, but the abundance of shiny hard plastic detracted from its overall quality. The controls were logically arranged, though the purple accent colour for the infotainment system was not universally appealing.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple since its North American debut in 1996, had evolved significantly over five generations. By 2022, it was a mature crossover SUV, often topping sales charts in Canada. The RAV4's exterior design was in line with contemporary crossover aesthetics, with angular wheel arches and crisp lines contrasting with organic body shapes. Its expressive headlights and grille 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 well-positioned for minimal distraction, and the interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied the cabin together. The RAV4's fit and finish elevated its overall quality, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in its LX, EX, and EX Premium trims, producing 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The SX trim featured a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, delivering 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The Seltos provided three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Smart, with Smart mode balancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The AWD system included a Lock function for power distribution, and the Seltos was capable of light off-roading. However, its suspension tuning was less than ideal, leading to a bouncy ride on uneven roads. Despite some handling issues, the Seltos offered good grip and visibility, making it easy to drive in urban settings.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 hp, using an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT). The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid offered 302 hp and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering. The AWD models included Multi-Terrain Select for various road conditions. The RAV4's powertrain options provided smooth and immediate power delivery, with impressive fuel efficiency across the board.

The 2022 Kia Seltos excelled in form and function, offering a roomy interior with easy access due to its ride height and large door openings. The driver's seat was adjustable, and heated front seats were standard on most trims. The rear seat accommodated adults comfortably, with ample legroom and footroom. The Seltos provided decent storage space, with 752 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat and 1,778 litres with the seat folded down. However, the use of hard plastic in some areas detracted from comfort.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 had grown over the years, offering up to 1,059 litres of luggage space behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with different models offering varying towing limits. Inside, the RAV4 was spacious and comfortable, with ample room for four adults and the ability to carry five. The front seats provided generous legroom and headroom, with dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat available on higher trims. The RAV4's interior was well-equipped with storage options and cupholders throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system starting at the EX Premium grade, paired with a Bose premium sound system on the SX trim. It included Bluetooth, navigation, connected services, satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was intuitive, with physical knobs and buttons for easy access. However, the voice recognition system was less effective without an active subscription to connected services.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, and additional connected services. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, power outlets, and ambient lighting. Some trims also offered a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera, and head-up display.

The 2022 Kia Seltos was equipped with numerous safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-keeping assist. The SX trim offered adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Seltos received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota’s Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 a five-star overall rating.