2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2024 Toyota RAV4

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, featuring similar design elements like hexagonal grilles, strong fender creases, and a muscular stance. The exterior colour significantly influenced its appearance, with the Capstone model in Celestial Silver giving off a somewhat dated "cop car" vibe. Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky, geometric dashboard design, complete with physical dials and buttons. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. All models included power-adjustable front seats and a moonroof, enhancing the interior's customizability and comfort.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a rugged look with aggressive body cladding and dual exhaust outlets, though its performance didn't match the appearance. The TRD Off-Road trim, tested in the U.S., featured utility-style roof racks and fake skid plates. The interior focused on practicality, with storage shelves and rubber-lined areas. SofTex upholstery was standard, with heated front seats across Canadian models. The RAV4's cabin was designed for utility, offering comfort and visibility, with features like a digital rearview mirror and ample cargo space.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available as a hybrid, using the iForce MAX powertrain with a twin-turbo V6 and electric motor, producing 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This marked a significant increase from its predecessor, with improved fuel economy rated at 11.7 L/100 km combined. Standard 4WD and a 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth handling. The Sequoia's towing capacity reached 4,137 kilograms, with off-road capabilities enhanced by the TRD Off-Road model's features like Crawl Control and hill-descent control.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. AWD was standard in Canada, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 offered various driving modes through Multi-Terrain Select, with ground clearance between 20.6 and 21.6 centimetres. Fuel economy was rated at 8.5 L/100 km combined, with the hybrid version offering better efficiency. Despite some noise and torque steer, the RAV4's engine was dependable, and the eight-speed automatic transmission performed well.

The Sequoia's interior offered up to 2,460 litres of cargo space with seats folded, though the third-row seats didn't create a flat load floor due to the hybrid battery. Legroom varied across rows, with the second-row captain's chairs providing comfort but lacking bolstering. Automatic power-deploying running boards were a convenient feature, though they required careful timing to avoid mishaps.

The RAV4's interior emphasized practicality, with numerous storage options and oversized control knobs. The SofTex upholstery and power-adjustable driver's seat added comfort, while heated features prepared it for winter. The RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with a spacious cargo area of 1,059 litres, expandable to 1,977 litres with seats down.

The Sequoia's Capstone trim included a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A 12.3-inch driver information display and a panoramic view monitor were standard on higher trims, enhancing usability. The JBL Premium Audio system was available on select trims, providing quality sound.

The RAV4's infotainment system featured an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity and various connected services. While the system was sophisticated, it lacked a multi-panel Home screen and had some usability issues. The digital voice assistant performed well, though it had minor limitations. A JBL audio system was available, but the standard speakers were adequate.

The Sequoia came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure alert. Optional trailer backup assistance was available on higher trims. While not yet rated by safety organizations, the similar Tundra received high marks.

The RAV4 also included TSS 2.5, with standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in Canada. The system performed adequately, though it lost its Top Safety Pick award due to updated testing criteria. The RAV4's design and engineering age contributed to its lower safety ratings.