2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a rugged appearance, with its aggressive front design and angular grey body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance didn't quite match the visual promise. The TRD Off-Road trim, although discontinued in Canada, was tested in the U.S. and featured a digital rearview mirror. In Canada, the Limited trim topped the lineup, offering a more refined interior with contrast-colour choices. The RAV4's cabin was designed for utility, with practical storage solutions and easy-clean surfaces, making it ideal for recreational activities.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe embraced a bold new design, moving away from the sleek aesthetics of its predecessors. The boxy shape was intended to maximize storage capacity, and the upscale look turned heads during test drives. The Santa Fe featured sophisticated exterior colours and anodized-finish badging, with the XRT trim adding dark chrome and black cladding. Inside, the Santa Fe offered premium styling, with options ranging from stain-resistant cloth to quilted Nappa leather. The focus on comfort and elegance was evident, making it a standout choice for those seeking a luxurious feel.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The Multi-Terrain Select system offered various driving modes, enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, the engine was noted for being loud and unrefined. Fuel economy was rated at 8.5 L/100 km combined, with the hybrid version offering better efficiency at 6.4 L/100 km.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a hybrid powertrain as the entry-level option, with a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine delivering 231 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. A traditional six-speed automatic transmission was used instead of a CVT. The gas-only models featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive was standard, and various driving modes were available. The Santa Fe Hybrid achieved a combined fuel economy of 6.9 L/100 km, while the gas version was rated at 10.6 L/100 km. The XRT trim offered additional off-road capabilities and increased towing capacity.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality, with a spacious interior designed for utility. It featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats provided good legroom, and the cargo area offered 1,059 litres of space, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe emphasized cargo space, with a longer wheelbase and body. The design was inspired by car camping, offering a large cargo area with an extra-wide tailgate. The interior was spacious, with options for bench or captain’s chairs in the second row. The cargo area provided 413 litres of space, expanding to 2,267 litres with seats folded. Additional features included a UV sanitization compartment and robust storage solutions.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and challenges with voice commands. A JBL premium audio system was available, and the digital rear-view mirror provided a clear view when the vehicle was packed.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a curved panoramic display, offering a luxurious feel. The touchscreen was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the lineup. A 12-speaker Bose stereo and multiple USB ports enhanced the experience. Hyundai’s BlueLink system provided vehicle access and information, with upgraded features in higher trims.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering a range of driver-assistance systems. However, it lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist were functional but had some limitations.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe had not been crash-tested by major organizations, but it included a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard equipment included adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and blind-spot monitors. Higher trims added advanced features like a 360-degree camera system and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe was the first Hyundai with driver monitoring, enhancing safety.