Comparison: Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V

The compact and mid-size SUV landscape is very competitive with lots of great vehicles to choose from. So we're going to help take on some of the research work for you by comparing the 2023 Honda CR-V and the 2023 Toyota RAV4.

Both vehicles are regular fixtures on numerous "best of" lists, and continue to lead the future of sport and utility by constantly innovating and implementing new technologies. And honestly, deciding which one you'd like to buy depends on what kind of adventures you'd like to have, as the Honda and the Toyota each offer a distinct way to play.

Let's explore the unique charms of two of the nation's most popular SUVs, and see which one captures your heart the most.

       

2023 Toyota RAV4 Comparison Highlights

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 was originally introduced for the 2019 model year, and offers the widest model selection ever - including a plug-in hybrid variant.

There are ten unique trims are available across a variety of gasoline and hybrid powertrains, with multiple models geared toward off-road adventures. The popular Adventure and TRD Off-Road models are joined this year by a new Woodland Edition trim which brings TRD-tuned off-road performance to the RAV4 Hybrid.

The Woodland Edition is the first hybrid off-road special variant for Toyota, and packs lots of functional and styling enhancements, including custom-tuned suspension, roof rails, cross bars, and bronze-colored wheels with Falken WILDPEAK AT tires. And since all RAV4 Hybrid models come standard with an electronic all-wheel drive system featuring a dedicated rear axle motor, you're getting the best of both worlds: enhanced torque and traction along with improved efficiency.

In general, the RAV4 lineup is quite capable, offering up to 219 horsepower, up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, available Dynamic Torque Vectoring, and Multi-Terrain Select modes. It's also worth noting that the 2023 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid is the most powerful RAV4 ever produced, as it packs an impressive 302 total system horsepower. For those keeping score, all that poke means it'll sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. On a full charge, the RAV4 Prime can operate in all-electric mode for an estimated 42 miles.

Providing a strong, dependable core is the RAV4's Toyota New Global Architecture platform, which showcases a long and wide stance, ensuring that handling and responsiveness are maximized, while ultimately providing passengers with a smooth and poised ride.

In the passenger area, connectivity and convenience features are now provided through a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system that's capable of over-the-air updates. The intuitive interface allows for touch or voice controls so you can easily access your digital assistant, music, phone functions, navigation, and more. And with the available Drive Connect service, saying "Hey Toyota" unlocks a variety of voice commands for points of interest, audio controls, climate controls, and other vehicle functions. For the driver, a new 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display conveys crucial data with high resolution and vibrant graphics that can be customized based on your needs and current driving mode.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 is standard on every 2023 RAV4, and features a long list of updated driver assistance features, including a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and much more. Many of these technologies have been enhanced to deliver a more natural response to specific scenarios, making your overall driving experience not only safer, but also smoother.