How Does Toyota RAV4 Compare to Honda CR-V?
2025 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2025 Honda CR-V
General Comparison
The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are two of the most popular compact SUVs on the market. Both vehicles offer a good combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should consider before making a decision.
To start, RAV4 starts at a lower base price than CR-V. Both are efficient in estimated fuel economy for front-wheel-drive models, but comparing all-wheel-drive (AWD) economy, RAV4 is rated for better than CR-V – 30 mpg combined vs. 28 mpg combined. This means you gain all-weather traction while spending less at the pump.
Verdict: The 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers better overall value, thanks to its lower starting price, additional features, and better AWD fuel economy against CR-V.
| 2025 Toyota RAV4 | 2025 Honda CR-V | |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $28,850 | $30,100 |
| Hybrid Powertrain | Standard | Available |
| MPG, AWD models (city/hwy/combined) | 27/34/30 | 26/31/28 |
| Standard Horsepower | 203 | 190 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Available |
| Standard Audio | 8″ display w/ 6 speakers | 7″ display w/ 4 speakers |
| SiriusXM® Satellite Radio | Standard | Available |
| Ventilated Front Seats | Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Power Moonroof | Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic View Monitor | Available | Not Available |
Performance & Efficiency
As mentioned, RAV4 gets better fuel economy than CR-V when equipped with AWD. The RAV4 is also the more powerful option too, featuring a 203 horsepower 2.5L I4 engine paired to an 8-speed automatic. CR-V’s standard engine is a less-powerful 1.5L turbo I4 paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) – making 190 horsepower.
For even more performance and economy, both offer hybrid powertrains that add both efficiency and power. Here too, RAV4 shines over CR-V. Read more about how in our separate comparison of hybrid models.
Verdict: The Toyota RAV4 offers superior performance, with more horsepower and economy.
Interior Comfort and Technology
RAV4 also comes standard with features that are optional, more expensive, or not even available on the Honda CR-V. The RAV4 shines brighter in terms of technology. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes 6 speakers. This is a larger screen and more speakers than Honda CR-V provides at the entry level model. Also standard on RAV4 are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which require moving up to much more expensive trims of the CR-V. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is also standard on RAV4, while it’s optional on the CR-V.
RAV4 also offers other creature comforts not available on any CR-V. Ventilated front seats are a great feature for hot Carolina summers, optional on Toyota RAV4 but not available on any Honda CR-V. Another luxurious feature is a panoramic power moonroof – this available feature on the RAV4 fills the already airy cabin with more light. No CR-V offers a panoramic moonroof at any price.
Every RAV4 features Toyota Safety Senseâ„¢ technology as standard across all trims. This suite of safety features includes pre-collison system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control. RAV4 also offers a 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor that lets you see around the vehicle and is helpful for parking in tight spaces. CR-V doesn’t offer a comparable feature.
Verdict: The Toyota RAV4 provides a more comfortable and technologically advanced interior than CR-V making it the better choice for modern drivers.
Conclusion
While the Honda CR-V is a strong contender among midsize family crossovers, the Toyota RAV4 remains the top choice in the segment. With its extra power, extra features, and lower starting price, it blends more of what drivers want in a value-packed driving experience.
Pinehurst Toyota in Southern Pines goes further with the peace of mind provided by the Advantage Plan. Call, text or visit us today to see the new RAV4 for yourself. We can’t wait to see you!