2023 Kia Sportage vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2023 Kia Sportage emerged with a completely redesigned look that was both exciting and exotic, reminiscent of French automotive styling. Its bold design elements, such as the boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar, garnered attention and added a touch of class to the compact crossover. The interior featured synthetic leather upholstery, offering durability and an animal-friendly option, although it lacked the luxurious feel of genuine leather. The driver’s seat provided excellent visibility, and the dashboard was dominated by an impressive display, though some interior elements, like the hard plastic plate near the door handle, were less appealing.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained the design introduced in 2019, with the Trail trim featuring a more aggressive grille and blacked-out wheels. The interior of the Trail trim was accented with orange details, adding a splash of colour to an otherwise basic setup. The RAV4 offered a more rugged, truck-like feel compared to its competitors, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. The Limited trim provided a more premium experience with features like a frameless rearview mirror and synthetic leather upholstery, appealing to those seeking a touch of sophistication.

The 2023 Kia Sportage was powered by a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a smooth driving experience. While the Sportage was more powerful than its predecessor, it lacked the punch of the previous turbocharged engine, which had provided 240 horsepower. The Sportage’s fuel economy was commendable, with figures of 9.3 L/100 km in the city and 7.4 on the highway for FWD models. The AWD models had slightly higher consumption rates. The Sportage’s off-road capabilities were adequate for typical crossover buyers, with 21 centimetres of ground clearance on AWD models.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which, while preferable to a CVT, did not enhance acceleration. The RAV4’s performance was more about reliability than excitement, with a focus on practicality. The Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, was more of a style statement than an off-road performer. The RAV4’s suspension system provided a comfortable ride, but it was not designed for serious off-road adventures.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offered a spacious interior, with rear-seat legroom of 1,050 mm and headroom of 966 mm. The trunk provided 1,121 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the rear seats folded. The front seats featured ample storage options, including a cubby ahead of the shifter and a spacious centre console bin. However, the Sportage’s technology, such as the touch-sensitive HVAC controls, could be frustrating to use while driving.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 provided 958 mm of headroom in the front and 1,001 mm in the rear, with legroom measuring 1,039 mm in the front and 960 mm in the back. The RAV4’s cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. The front passenger enjoyed convenient storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. The RAV4’s interior was practical, with a focus on functionality over luxury.

The 2023 Kia Sportage featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system on EX-and-up trims, paired with a digital instrument cluster on the X-Line Limited. While the technology was impressive, the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trims was puzzling. The Sportage offered Bluetooth, keyless entry, and a wireless charging pad on higher trims, with a Harman Kardon audio system on the X-Line Limited.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system, with an 8.0-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.5-inch screen on the Limited trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with voice command and connected services. The Limited trim featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system, while the Trail trim had a six-speaker stereo. The RAV4’s technology was modern and user-friendly, with a focus on connectivity and convenience.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a backup camera. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The X-Line Limited trim included advanced features like a blind-view monitor and highway driving assist, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 received top safety scores from the IIHS, earning a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award. The RAV4’s safety features were comprehensive and effective, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.