Toyota RAV-4 vs Honda CR-V

There’s basically no contest when comparing the 2013 Toyota Rav4 with the rest of its compact SUV class. The new Rav4 is a serious force to be reckoned with and is giving the competition a real run for their money.

The 2013 Rav4 AWD Sport comes with a 2.5L four-cylinder six-speed automatic transmission. It’s loaded with tons of standard equipment. Creature comforts like climate control, outside temperature gauge; front adjustable seat height and keyless entry are all standard in the Rav4. Technology like an audio system, CD player, auxiliary input jack, on-board computer, cruise control, MP3 player, backup camera, parking distance sensors, power everything also come standard. Space is never an issue with cargo area cover, cargo area light, door mounted storage, seating for five passengers, and console storage come standard as well.

When comparing the Rav4 to the Honda CR-V it may appear that these two vehicles are similar. But it’s time to take a look inside and under the hood and see who comes out the winner.

The CR-V does not come with the following: standard automatic climate control, deck rail system, separate driver/front passenger climate controls, heated exterior mirror, rear spoiler, and optional navigation, voice activated controls and satellite radio. The choice is clear because all of this comes standard on the Rav4.

The 2013 Rav4 was completely redesigned. It no longer features a V6 engine and the rear mounted spare tire has been moved under the cargo floor. More stylish and technologically advanced interior gives the Rav4 something to get excited about. The spacious interior provides ample room for all passengers big or small. Safety and entertainment have also been upgraded in the LE, XLE and Limited trim levels.

Both the CR-V and Rav4 are equipped with similar eng ines. The CR-V comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine cranking out 185 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 163 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Eco Assist helps improve its fuel economy. It also activates the 3,305-lb SUV to 26 miles per gallon in combined city and highway. The Rav4 is a little heavier at 3,435-lb but still manages to match the fuel economy of the CR-V. Fuel economy is a tie for both of these crossover SUVs.

The CR-V comes with six standard airbags, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and a multi-angle reversing camera display. It also comes with voice-activated text-messaging capability, and Honda’s ACE body structure.

The Toyota Rav4 is equipped with eight airbags, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and a reversing camera. It also has Smart Stop technology, which makes it impossible to accelerate when the brake pedal is pressed. Text-messaging capability is optional, along with a blind spot information system and a rear cross-traffic alert system.

Both SUVs get the distinction of being named a TOP SAFETY PICK by the IIHS.

The better value between the two can be found in the Rav4. Its base model starts at $24,145 with front-wheel drive. This includes dark tinted glass, a touchscreen audio system and a two-year/25,000 mile free scheduled service plan.

Toyota also takes the cake when stacked up in the technology category against the CR-V. It comes with a much more comprehensive computer and entertainment system. Standard in the Rav4 are Bluetooth, USB port, 6.1-inch touchscreen audio system and backup camera. The Rav4 offers drivers the option of a navigation system, Entune smartphone pairing technology with multimedia services, HD Radio and voice-activated texting, which the CR-V does not. To top it off the Rav4 also comes with a power tailgate, a passive entry system with push-button ignition, a premium audio system with JBL GreenEdge speakers, a blind spot information system and a rear cross-traffic alert system.

Toyota boasts an incredible value when comparing the Rav4 to the Honda CR-V. The Rav4 is the better bang for your buck by far. To test drive the Toyota Rav4 contact Miller Toyota today! We have an incredible selection of new and pre-owned Rav4s to choose from online and in store. Come see us today and experience everything that Miller Toyota has to offer. We go above and beyond to bring you a unique car buying experience!