Mazda CX-30 vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2026 Mazda CX-30, available in Canada in five trim levels, was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive (AWD). The trims ranged from the GX to the GT Kuro Edition, with prices spanning from $31,495 to $43,545, including destination charges. The GS Kuro Edition, which we tested, featured Aero Grey paint and illuminated door sill plates, bringing its MSRP to $37,549. This subcompact SUV boasted a premium look and feel, with the Kuro Edition offering blacked-out exterior trim and white artificial leather upholstery. The Aero Grey colour provided a sharp contrast with the black details, enhancing the upscale appearance. Despite its thick lower-perimeter body cladding, which protected against chips and dents, the CX-30's overall design seemed more expensive than its price suggested. The control layout was intuitive, except for the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which required a learning curve but became natural to use over time.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in Canada exclusively in the Sport design, with trims including the SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport. The sixth-generation RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor but featured buffer bumpers that extended its length. The GR Sport trim showcased a more assertive grille and rear diffuser, adding nearly five centimetres to its length. The RAV4's design embraced a boxy, truck-like presence, with square wheel arches and bulging fenders reminiscent of the Highlander models. The Sport trims featured gloss black accents, while the GR Sport, inspired by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division, included red brake calipers, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a 12.9-inch option on higher trims. The interior design was streamlined, with a wide centre console housing a mechanical gear shifter or a shift-by-wire setup, depending on the trim.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine across all models, with the GT Kuro trim offering an optional turbocharger. The standard engine produced 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged version delivered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system. The CX-30's fuel economy was rated at 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres combined for the standard engine and 9.3 combined for the turbo. During testing, the GS Kuro Edition averaged 8.3 L/100 km on a mixed driving loop and 9.2 L/100 km on a mountainous route. The CX-30's 48-litre fuel tank limited the distance between stops. The turbocharged engine provided noticeable torque, but the standard drivetrain was lively enough for most drivers. The CX-30's engaging handling, aided by G-Vectoring Control Plus and a brake-based limited-slip differential, made it enjoyable to drive, with precise steering and responsive brakes.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, up from 177 hp in the previous model. The PHEV's larger 22.7-kwh battery pack and efficient semiconductors increased the estimated range to 80 kilometres. The RAV4's power output rose to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The AWD system included a 203 hp front motor and a smaller rear motor for assistance and traction. In EV mode, the RAV4 accelerated quickly but plateaued at 50 km/h. In Auto mode, the combined powertrain delivered a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. The RAV4 offered Hybrid and Charge modes for different driving scenarios. The transition of power was seamless, with paddle shifters allowing manual control. The RAV4's ride was spirited yet comfortable, with a strengthened chassis for improved rigidity. The GR Sport trim, with its lower stance and 20-inch wheels, offered enhanced handling, while the XSE model was heavier but still performed well.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 had some drawbacks in terms of practicality and utility. Despite its high ground clearance, small door openings made entry and exit challenging. The back seat was tight for adults, and the cargo area was small for the segment. The air conditioning system struggled in hot weather. The front seats were comfortable but snug, with only the 10-way power driver's seat offering height adjustment. Heated front seats were standard in Canada, but ventilated seats were unavailable. The back seat offered limited space, and rear USB charging ports were absent. Up front, storage was reasonable, with a roomy bin under the centre armrest and sizeable cupholders. The CX-30's cargo space was 572 litres, expanding to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded, but it was one of the smaller measurements in the segment.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's base SE trim was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, five USB ports, and push-button start. The front seats provided adequate bolstering and thigh support, with SofTex synthetic leather upholstery on higher trims. Ventilated seats were standard on the GR Sport and XSE trims. The RAV4's interior dimensions remained similar to the previous generation, with clever storage features like a dashboard shelf and a wireless device charger. The deep door pockets accommodated large water bottles, and the RAV4 seated four passengers comfortably. The rear legroom was 960 millimetres, sufficient for taller passengers. The cargo area offered 951 litres of space, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The flat floor and temporary spare tire added practicality.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system offered two screen sizes and varying functionality. The GX trim featured an 8.8-inch display, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and basic voice recognition. The GS trim added a 10.25-inch screen, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT trims included a 12-speaker Bose sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, touchscreen operation was limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the native system accessible only via a console knob. The voice recognition technology was subpar, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a workaround.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a 12.9-inch option on higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with climate controls integrated into the touchscreen. The touchscreen had customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access. The digital displays were enhanced by Toyota's Arene operating system, offering improved graphics and responsiveness. The Voice Assistant responded to a range of prompts, and the system could locate chargers along the route. The RAV4's technology package provided a comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 boasted impressive safety features and favourable crash test ratings. Standard driver assistance systems included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. The GT trim added parking sensors, rear automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS, with high ratings in most assessments.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a safe exit alert. The RAV4's safety record was historically strong, and the redesign aimed to address previous shortcomings. The RAV4's safety features provided a robust and reliable driving experience.