2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a continuation of a 2019 redesign, was a mature crossover SUV that had evolved significantly from its original "cute ute" categorization. Its exterior design, while fitting in with the general crossover aesthetic, featured distinctive angular flourishes and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. The interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design cues like a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern. The RAV4's fit and finish elevated its overall quality, making it a popular choice among SUV buyers in Canada.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant styling departure from its predecessors, presenting a more assertive and truck-like appearance. It was longer and wider, with a muscular stance and modernized taillights. The Hybrid Touring trim featured sport elements like black roof rails and mirrors, enhancing its bold look. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed a premium design direction with high-quality materials and a honeycomb grille spanning the dash. The interior was consistent with other Honda models, offering a refined and cohesive feel.

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 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and optional AWD, with fuel economy ranging from 7.9 to 8.5 L/100 km combined. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 hp and impressive fuel economy of 6.0 L/100 km combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 hp and could run up to 68 km on electricity alone, with a combined efficiency rating of 2.5 Le/100 km. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a new hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-litre engine and two electric motors, producing 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. It was the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h and a towing capacity of 450 kg. The CR-V Hybrid used a CVT and offered four drive modes, including a new Snow mode. The updated AWD system could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels, and a hill-descent control system was introduced. The CR-V Hybrid's fuel economy was estimated at 6.4 L/100 km combined, with a new "B" mode for increased regenerative braking.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provided ample cargo space, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a payload capacity of 499 to 511 kg and could tow up to 1,588 kg in certain trims. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating for four and a practical layout featuring numerous storage options. The RAV4 offered dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat in higher trims.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to more interior volume, with 1,028 litres of cargo space and 2,030 litres with the seats folded. It featured wide-opening rear doors and an improved LATCH system for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The CR-V Hybrid offered eight reclining rear seat positions and a standard power moonroof. The interior included a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders, with best-in-class console storage.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and navigation. The RAV4 Prime featured advanced technology like a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera, and head-up display.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a 7-inch touchscreen with physical knobs, while higher trims had a 9-inch display. It included USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, and heated seats. The Hybrid Touring trim offered wireless smartphone integration, a Bose audio system, and Honda's smart navigation system, optimizing fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota's Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. It earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, with additional features like blind-spot monitoring and parking assist available on higher trims.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with the Honda Sensing suite, including improved collision mitigation and lane-keeping assist. New features like traffic jam assist and traffic sign recognition were standard, along with a blind-spot monitor and rear-seat reminders. The CR-V Hybrid received top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, with structural enhancements for added protection.