2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in the rear. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and user-friendly buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo and cabin temperature.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 evolved from its origins as a "cute ute" into a mature crossover SUV. The latest iteration, stemming from a 2019 redesign, featured angular wheel arches and crisp lines that contrasted with the body-side bends. The RAV4's expressive headlights and snub-nosed grille gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 offered 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 a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern that tied the cabin together. The RAV4's 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels added a touch of sophistication.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, featured a more robust engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm. The ride was smooth and compliant, with a hint of body roll and lateral rocking over uneven surfaces. While the Sportage SX was fun to drive, it lacked the refinement of competitors like the Mazda CX-5 Turbo.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for FWD models was 8.8 L/100 km city, 6.8 highway, and 7.9 combined. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 hp and used an eCVT, achieving 5.8 L/100 km city, 6.3 highway, and 6.0 combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasted 302 hp and could run up to 68 km on electricity alone, with a fuel efficiency of 2.5 Le/100 km combined. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. AWD models featured Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring for improved handling.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though smaller in size, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided front-seat occupants with perforated leather upholstery, ten-way power adjustment for the driver, and eight-way power adjustment for the front passenger. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, added to the comfort. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. However, the Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded and 868 litres behind the back seat. The smart liftgate technology was a convenient feature, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered ample interior space, with 1,059 litres of luggage capacity behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. The RAV4's payload ranged from 499 to 511 kilograms, and it could tow up to 1,588 kilograms in Trail and TRD Off-Road models. Inside, the RAV4 provided comfortable seating for four, with plenty of legroom and storage options. The XLE grade added dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a heated steering wheel. The RAV4's interior was well-equipped with cupholders, bottle holders, and storage compartments.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the UVO Intelligence system lagged in technological sophistication, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Higher trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology with five USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and blue ambient illumination. Top trims included a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera system, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Kia Sportage EX and SX grades included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim also featured adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota’s Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 was standard, offering features like pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, and the RAV4 Prime earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.