Performance and Engine Comparison

When we compare the Honda CR-V vs RAV4, performance is often the first thing customers ask about. Both SUVs offer reliable engines, but they take different approaches to power delivery and efficiency.

The 2024 Honda CR-V comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. We've found that customers love how smooth and responsive this engine feels during daily driving around Christiansburg and the New River Valley.

The Toyota RAV4 uses a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. It makes 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While it has more horsepower on paper, the CR-V's turbo engine delivers power differently, feeling more responsive at lower speeds.

Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive as an option. The Honda CR-V's Real Time AWD system automatically sends power to the rear wheels when needed. The RAV4's Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD can send up to 50% of power to the rear wheels and distribute it between the rear wheels for better traction.

For daily driving in Virginia, both engines provide plenty of power for highway merging and mountain driving. The CR-V feels more refined, while the RAV4 offers slightly more power for those who prioritize performance over smoothness.

Interior Space and Comfort Features

We often hear customers say that interior space is a top priority when choosing between the Honda CR-V and RAV4. Both compact SUVs offer impressive room for their size, but there are important differences to consider.

The Honda CR-V provides more passenger space overall. Front-seat passengers get 41.3 inches of legroom, while rear passengers enjoy 40.4 inches. The RAV4 offers 41.0 inches of front legroom and 37.8 inches in the rear. This difference is noticeable for taller passengers or families with growing teenagers.

Cargo Space Comparison

Cargo capacity is another area where these SUVs differ. The Honda CR-V offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. When you fold the rear seats down, this expands to 75.8 cubic feet. The RAV4 provides 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

We've noticed that CR-V customers appreciate the lower cargo floor, which makes loading heavy items easier. The RAV4's cargo area is slightly higher, but it includes a spare tire underneath, which some customers prefer over the CR-V's tire repair kit.

Technology and Convenience Features

Both SUVs come well-equipped with technology. The Honda CR-V includes the Honda Sensing suite of safety features as standard. It also comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a multi-angle rearview camera.

The RAV4 includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and comes with an 8-inch touchscreen on most trims. Both vehicles offer similar smartphone integration, but we find that Honda's infotainment system is more user-friendly for most customers.

Climate control is another consideration. The CR-V offers dual-zone automatic climate control on higher trims, while the RAV4 includes this feature on more trim levels. Both vehicles provide comfortable seating with available heated front seats.

Safety Ratings and Advanced Safety Features

Safety is a top concern for families in Virginia, and both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 excel in this area. We're proud to say that both vehicles have earned top safety ratings from major testing organizations.

The Honda CR-V earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick award. These ratings give our customers confidence when driving around Christiansburg and beyond.

The Toyota RAV4 also earned a 5-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition. Both vehicles perform exceptionally well in crash tests and offer comprehensive safety technology as standard equipment.

Standard Safety Technology

Honda Sensing comes standard on every CR-V trim level. This suite includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System. These features work together to help prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 is standard on all RAV4 models. It includes Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Both systems are effective, but we find that Honda's system feels more natural in operation.

Additional safety features available on both vehicles include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and parking sensors. The CR-V offers a multi-angle rearview camera as standard, while the RAV4 includes a standard rearview camera with available bird's eye view on higher trims.

Pricing and Value Comparison

When we help customers compare the Honda CR-V vs RAV4, pricing is always an important factor. Both vehicles offer competitive pricing in the compact SUV segment, but there are differences in how they deliver value.

The 2024 Honda CR-V starts at $28,410 for the LX trim with front-wheel drive. The EX trim starts at $30,810, while the EX-L begins at $33,410. The top Sport Touring trim starts at $36,410. All-wheel drive adds $1,500 to any trim level.

The Toyota RAV4 has a slightly lower starting price at $28,000 for the LE trim. The XLE starts at $30,725, while the XLE Premium begins at $33,540. The Limited trim tops out at $37,605. RAV4 all-wheel drive typically adds $1,400 to the base price.

Standard Equipment Value

We believe the Honda CR-V offers better value in standard equipment. Even the base LX trim includes Honda Sensing, LED headlights, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The RAV4 LE includes similar safety features but has a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and halogen headlights.

Long-Term Value and Reliability

Both Honda and Toyota have excellent reputations for reliability and resale value. Honda vehicles typically hold their value well, and we see many CR-V customers return for their next Honda after years of reliable service.

The RAV4 also has strong resale value, often slightly higher than the CR-V in some markets. However, we believe the CR-V's lower maintenance costs and longer warranty coverage provide better overall value for most customers.

Honda offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Toyota provides a similar 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Both companies offer roadside assistance and have extensive service networks.

Which SUV is Right for You?

After helping hundreds of customers choose between the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, we've learned that the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. Both are excellent compact SUVs, but each has strengths that appeal to different types of drivers.

We recommend the Honda CR-V if you prioritize interior space, fuel economy, and ride comfort. The CR-V excels in daily driving situations and offers more room for passengers and cargo. Its smooth CVT transmission and refined engine make it ideal for commuting and family use.

Choose the Honda CR-V if you want:

More rear-seat legroom for growing families, better fuel economy for daily commuting, smoother and quieter ride quality, more cargo space for weekend adventures, and a more user-friendly infotainment system. The CR-V is perfect for families who value comfort and practicality above all else.

Choose the Toyota RAV4 if you want:

Slightly more horsepower for highway driving, more rugged styling and higher ground clearance, stronger resale value in some markets, and a more traditional automatic transmission feel. The RAV4 appeals to drivers who want a more adventurous-looking SUV with slightly sportier performance.

Both vehicles offer excellent reliability, safety, and value. We encourage customers to test drive both SUVs to experience the differences firsthand. Our team at Motor Mile Honda is here to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.