2020 Honda CR-V vs 2019 Toyota 4Runner

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was a rugged SUV that truly embodied its off-road capabilities through its design. Unlike many modern SUVs that merely suggested off-road prowess, the 4Runner's aggressive front end, large tires, and flared fenders were functional, providing steep approach and departure angles essential for trail adventures. Its design was a testament to its purpose, with trim levels ranging from the basic SR5 to the trail-ready TRD Pro, each offering a unique blend of features. The interior, though dated, offered practical features like an 8-way power driver’s seat and a 120-volt power outlet, emphasizing its utility for outdoor enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda CR-V presented a more refined and car-like appearance, with soft lines and a design that leaned towards a modern family vehicle. Its interior was a mix of upscale touches and some lower-quality materials, reflecting its position as a practical yet affordable crossover. The CR-V offered a straightforward trim lineup, with the base LX starting at a competitive price and higher trims adding features like leather upholstery and a moonroof. Despite its compact size, the CR-V's interior was spacious, offering ample head- and legroom, and a versatile cargo area that could be expanded with a two-position load floor.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single engine option, a 4.0-liter V6 producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, was known for its durability rather than efficiency. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and crawl control, making it a formidable choice for off-road enthusiasts. However, its fuel economy was a downside, with 4WD models achieving just 17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

The 2020 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine across all trims, delivering 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a CVT, which provided a smooth and efficient driving experience. The CR-V's car-like handling and low curb weight contributed to its excellent road manners and fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 30 mpg combined. The CR-V also introduced a hybrid version for those seeking even greater efficiency.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious interior with ample head- and legroom, even for taller drivers. Its cargo space was impressive, boasting nearly 90 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it a practical choice for those needing to haul gear. The interior, though dated, was functional, with large knobs and a simple layout that catered to outdoor activities.

The 2020 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space and clever storage solutions. Its cabin was roomy, with a seating position that offered excellent visibility. The cargo area was versatile, with a two-position load floor and a total of 75.8 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. The CR-V's interior was designed for practicality, with features like a deep center console and large door pockets for additional storage.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Entune system with navigation was straightforward but dated, with small fonts and limited functionality. The SR5 Premium trim offered some upgrades, but overall, the 4Runner's tech was a step behind its competitors.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system also showed its age, with a 5-inch screen on the base LX trim and a 7-inch touchscreen on higher trims. While it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system was not user-friendly, requiring multiple taps to navigate. However, the CR-V did provide ample USB ports and a wireless phone charger on the Touring trim, catering to tech-savvy users.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner came with basic safety features, including airbags and a reversing camera. It lacked modern driver-assistance technologies, which were becoming standard in many vehicles. The 4Runner received a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA, with a 3-star rating in the rollover test.

The 2020 Honda CR-V, in contrast, was equipped with the Honda Sensing suite as standard, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It received a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and was awarded a Top Safety Pick by IIHS, although lower trims had less effective headlights. The CR-V's comprehensive safety features made it a strong contender in its class.