2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged appearance. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line swooping over the rear wheel arch, which added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash was interrupted by a metallic styling element, creating a helpful storage tray. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted high, reducing driver distraction. The Bronze Edition featured 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which attracted dirt and stains, raising durability concerns. Other trims offered more conventional materials, but genuine leather was only available in the top trims.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, launched in North America in 1996, evolved from a "cute ute" to a mature crossover SUV. The 2022 model, part of a 2019 redesign, often topped SUV sales charts in Canada. Its exterior styling blended angular flourishes with organic shapes, creating a Kabuki-like face with expressive headlights and a snub-nosed grille. The traditional Toyota fit and finish elevated the exterior's quality. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by an uncomplicated centre stack. The touchscreen interface was positioned for minimal driver distraction. Distinctive design cues, like a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern, tied the cabin together. The test vehicle, a gasoline Trail AWD model, showcased the RAV4's car-like handling and four-wheel independent suspension, making it popular among a wide range of drivers.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in Canada. Toyota estimated it could reach 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in an uninspired drone during heavy acceleration. Braking was traditional, with a soft pedal feel and seamless transition from regenerative to physical brakes. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing over bumps, and the cabin remained mostly free of wind and road noise on the highway.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains. The gasoline-only model used a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD), with AWD available on all but the base model. Fuel economy ranged from 8.8 to 9.5 L/100 km city and 6.8 to 7.4 highway. The RAV4 Hybrid used a similar engine with an electric motor, producing 217 combined horsepower and achieving 5.8 L/100 km city and 6.3 highway. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 km on electricity alone. The test vehicle, a gasoline Trail AWD model, delivered smooth power and good highway performance. The RAV4's car-like handling, MacPherson struts, and multi-link suspension contributed to its popularity.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a small shelf, and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 1,059 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a payload capacity of 499 to 511 kilograms, depending on configuration. Towing capacity varied by model, with Trail and TRD Off-Road models rated up to 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four, with plenty of space in the front seats. The XLE grade added dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Cupholders and storage compartments were abundant, though the middle seat in the second row was less desirable.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also available on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with six speakers, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A 9-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system and navigation was optional on Trail and standard on Limited. The RAV4 Prime featured advanced technology, including five USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and blue ambient illumination. Top trims offered a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera, digital rear-view mirror, and head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Platinum trim offered a surround view camera and head-up display. Some systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, required fine-tuning.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota’s Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It featured eight airbags and LATCH anchors for child seats. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 was standard, with pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the Prime model earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.