2019 Audi Q3 vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2019 Audi Q3 featured a bold design with a large octagonal grille and signature headlights, reminiscent of its A5 and Q5 siblings. Buyers could choose between the standard Quattro equipment or the Quattro S Line, which added unique bumper designs and larger wheels. Inside, the Q3's cabin combined futuristic elements with traditional design, offering three trims: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. The Prestige trim, in particular, boasted advanced tech features, a navigation system, and Audi’s virtual cockpit, making it a standout in terms of luxury and technology.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 adopted a more rugged and angular appearance, enhancing its off-road capabilities with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims. The TRD Off-Road trim, in particular, featured matte-black wheels, all-terrain tires, and a specialized suspension for diverse terrains. Inside, the RAV4 offered a practical and comfortable cabin with TRD logos, rubber mats, and quality materials. The TRD Off-Road trim was positioned near the top of the RAV4 lineup, offering a blend of off-road prowess and urban utility.

The 2019 Audi Q3 was powered by a 2-liter turbocharged I4 engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s Quattro AWD, provided solid acceleration and a dynamic driving experience. The Q3 offered multiple drive modes, including Auto, Dynamic, Individual, Off-Road, and Comfort, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The Q3's suspension provided a balance of comfort and responsive cornering, with an EPA-rated fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 27 highway, and 22 combined.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, came with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system and multiple terrain settings, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The RAV4 averaged 23.4 mpg in real-world driving, slightly below the EPA estimate of 27 mpg combined. The TRD Off-Road trim excelled in off-road conditions while maintaining practicality for everyday use.

The 2019 Audi Q3 offered a spacious cabin with 48 cubic feet of total cargo space and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The backseat was designed to accommodate full-size adults comfortably, with scalloped ceiling panels providing additional headroom. Up front, the driver and passenger enjoyed ample space and practical storage solutions. The MMI touchscreen system was user-friendly, with physical climate controls and a convenient volume knob accessible to both driver and passenger.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 provided easy access with well-positioned seating and an 8-way adjustable driver's seat. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated front seats. The rear seat offered generous legroom, and the cargo area provided 37.6 cubic feet behind the seats, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. Interior storage was ample, with a dashboard shelf and a robust roof rack for additional utility. A hands-free power liftgate was available as an option.

The 2019 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available on higher trims. The MMI system featured large icons and multiple home screens, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Prestige trim added wireless device charging and connectivity, along with a Bang & Olufsen sound system and Audi Virtual Cockpit. The technology package on the Premium Plus trim offered additional features for tech enthusiasts.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's infotainment system included a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen, with standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The TRD Off-Road trim featured an 8-inch screen with menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. The optional Technology Package added wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror. The voice-recognition technology was notably effective, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2019 Audi Q3 included standard safety features such as airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. Driver-assistance systems like forward-collision warning, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring were also standard. The Prestige trim offered additional driver-assistance features and a precise surround-view camera system, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring advanced safety systems like Pre-Collision System, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert. The RAV4 also included a 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services. The IIHS awarded the RAV4 a Top Safety Pick rating, contingent on the inclusion of full LED headlights.