 Toyota RAV4 |
VS |  Honda CR-V |
Welcome to the new 2013 Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V comparison. Both are new models for 2013 and significant upgrades over their older versions. Both where top the chart sellers in the class and so you can’t really go wrong with either small SUV. However which one is better?
Toyota has been on a upward design drive for the past year while Honda hasn’t exactly found its former technological mojo. Since there is a ton of competition in the ‘small’ SUV class neither company can afford to get their new models wrong. In the showroom and specification wise they don’t reveal themselves as having leading edge technology and err on the side of proven reliability. They also show more finesse compared to Korean rivals.
Toyota RAV4 Vs Honda CRV exterior: The design for both cars are modern and designed to appeal to a broad range of would be owners. We like both but the RAV looks like a Corolla whereas the CRV is unique to the brand. The deletion of the rear hanging tyre means the RAV4 loses Toyota’s carefully craft off-road image which is a bit sad.
Toyota RAV4 Vs Honda CRV interior: We like the design of the new RAV4 interior. The interior reminds us more of Lexus than Toyota which is good. It is different and quite classy however some materials on the cheaper end of the range could be better or perhaps to add a bit of retro feel? The CRV is always a nice place to be but like again like the RAV4 especially the top range models there are some parts like near the door trim that look sturdy but underdone. We like both for different reasons.
Toyota RAV4 Vs Honda CRV engine and technology: Lots of changes to the RAV4 mechanical package but nothing leading edge like the CX-5 for example. The CRV also uses proven technology refined for more efficiency but again both could do better. Both now come with 2WD only and base 2 litre engines with claim similar performance as the larger engine due to less weight. At the time of writing only the RAV4 has the option of a diesel engine. The CRV is getting a new one in 2014.
The amazingly low tow rating for the diesel RAV4 models is also a concern although we’ve never actually seen a RAV4 towing anything before!
Toyota RAV4 Vs Honda CRV on road: N/A
In the end the breath of RAV4 range will mean there is a model for everyone and it does look and feel very good. The CRV is still a great package although after trying the navigation and seeing the displays in action Honda needs to upgrade them FAST. Sure the system works great but even a Ford Focus has better graphics! Until we drive both back to back we like both! Strangely though in the end it will the best looking in the driveway, the most comfortable, quietest, smoothest, reliable and how good their claimed off road capabilities are that will win rather than sports car handling pretense or PR spin.
| Toyota RAV4 | Honda CR-V |
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| Engines | |
| IL4 Cylinder – Petrol – (3ZR-FE) DOHC 16 Valve VVT 2.0 Litre (1987cc) Claimed 107Kw @ 6200RPM Claimed 187Nm @ 3600RPM IL4 Cylinder – Petrol – (2AR-FE) IL4 Cylinder – Diesel – (2AD-FTV) |
IL4 Cylinder – Petrol – (R20A5) DOHC 16 Valve VVT 2.4 Litre (2354cc) Claimed 140Kw @ 7000RPM Claimed 222Nm @ 4400RPM IL4 Cylinder – Petrol – (K2579) IL4 Cylinder – Diesel – (D4HA) |
| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1485Kg Towing capacity up to 1500kg (2.5 Petrol) |
Kerb weight FROM 1460 Kg Towing capacity up to 1500kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 60 litres 3ZR-FE 2.0 Petrol 7.7 litres per 100km 2AR-FE 2.5 Petrol 8.6 litres per 100km 2AD-FTV 2.2 Diesel 5.6 litres per 100km |
Up to 58 litres IL4 2.0 Petrol 7.8 litres per 100km IL4 2.4 Petrol 8.7 litres per 100km IL4 2.0 Diesel 7.5 litres per 100km |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed manual or 6 speed Auto CVT Auto Overall height/width 1715/1845 Overall length/wheelbase 4570/2660 4WD system: AWD or 2WD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: 225-55-17 |
6 speed manual or 5 speed Auto Overall height/width 1685/1820 Overall length/wheelbase 4545/2620 ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: 225-60-18 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Min ground clearance xxx mm Water Fording depth xxx mm |
| Performance | |
| Pricing | |
| February 2013 $28,490 – 48,990 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! |
November 2012 $27,490 – 42,290 AUD |