2021 Audi Q5 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, contributing to its classy and modern appearance. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, with technology integrated seamlessly into an uncluttered design. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy access. The second row was well-appointed, featuring standard leather seating surfaces.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, having evolved over five generations, was a mature crossover SUV that often topped the sales charts in the United States. Its exterior design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, had distinctive angular flourishes and crisp lines that contrasted with organic body shapes. The RAV4's expressive headlights and grille gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, anchored by a straightforward center stack. The touchscreen interface was positioned for minimal distraction, and the interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied the cabin together. The Adventure-trim test vehicle came with 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels, adding to its distinctive appearance.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total combined output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup, paired with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered a fuel economy of 65 MPGe combined and 27 mpg in gasoline-only mode. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive and various driving modes, allowing for electric-only driving up to 20 miles. The Q5's handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 hp and an eCVT, achieving 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 hp and could run up to 42 miles on electricity alone, with an efficiency rating of 94 MPGe combined. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear, offering a smooth ride and improved turn-in and handling.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation available on higher trims. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage options, including cupholders, cubbies, and a center-console storage bin.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while still classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet. It had a payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds and towing capabilities ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the model. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four, with ample legroom, hip room, shoulder room, and headroom in the front row. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including cupholders, bottle holders, and a spacious glove compartment.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered three customizable views and was paired with color/mood-adjustable LED ambient lighting. The Prestige Package included navigation, which worked with the hybrid system to optimize fuel consumption. The Integrated Toll Module was standard, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system was available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay was included.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime featured additional technology, including five USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad. A bird’s-eye view camera system and a 10-inch color head-up display were available on top trims.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top "good" ratings in most categories. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, Audi Pre Sense, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota's Star Safety System and eight airbags. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 was standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure alert. Higher trims included a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, and the RAV4 Prime was a Top Safety Pick+. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five stars.