2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Toyota Sequoia

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was available in four trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE at just over $35,000 to the RAV4 Limited, which exceeded $45,000. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a distinctive two-part face. The Trail trim, tested in its US equivalent, showcased a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional rugged styling elements, though it was more about appearance than off-road capability. Inside, the Trail trim added orange accents, contrast stitching, and a stripe on the seats, while the Limited trim offered a more premium feel with features like a frameless rearview mirror and heated, ventilated seats.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, featuring similar design cues such as hexagonal grilles and muscular stances. The Capstone model, tested in Celestial Silver, had a dated appearance with chrome brightwork. Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky, geometric dash layout, with physical dials and buttons for climate control. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. The Sequoia's seating was highly adjustable, with power-tilt and -slide moonroofs standard across the lineup. The interior was spacious, though the third-row seats did not fold flat due to the hybrid powertrain's battery pack.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) across all trims, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4's performance was more "unobjectionable" than "exciting," with a noticeable engine noise. The Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4s, offering a comfortable ride but lacking in off-road prowess.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available as a hybrid, utilizing the iForce MAX hybrid powertrain with a twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor. This setup delivered 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than its V8 predecessor. Fuel economy improved to 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The Sequoia featured a part-time 4WD system with selectable modes and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The SR5 TRD Off-Road model offered adventure-ready features like unique tires, off-road suspension, and driver-assist technologies. The Sequoia's towing capacity reached 4,137 kilograms, with optional towing upgrades available.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seated five and offered 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear with the moonroof. Front legroom measured 1,039 mm, while the rear had 960 mm, making it competitive with the Honda CR-V but narrower in the back seat. The RAV4 provided ample storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and generous door pockets. Cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia's Capstone trim featured automatic power-deploying running boards for easier access. Cargo space maxed out at 2,460 litres with both rear rows folded, while behind the second row, it offered 1,387 litres. The third row provided 325 to 631 litres, depending on seat position. The second-row seats were easy to move for third-row access, but the third-row seats did not fold flat due to the hybrid battery. Headroom was reduced by 7.5 cm, with legroom ranging from 713 to 855 mm in the third row. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, offering comfort but lacking bolstering.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.5-inch screen for the Limited trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with voice command and connected services. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display, while the Trail trim had a wireless charging pad.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia's Capstone trim included a 14-inch centre touchscreen, standard on all but the SR5 trim, which had an 8-inch screen. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A 12.3-inch driver information display was standard across all trims, and the Panoramic View monitor was included on Platinum and Capstone trims. The Capstone also featured a 10-inch head-up display and a 14-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with standard safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The TSS 2.5 suite included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia featured the TSS 2.5 suite, with standard safety features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking were also standard. The Sequoia had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the similar Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation.